The long name belongs to Hawaii’s state fish. Even though it’s the state fish, it’s unregulated, so you catch them if you can. As a member of the Balistidae family, this small fish has a reputation for putting up a big fight. Anglers lucky enough to catch one will be in for a thrilling experience. However, while catching these triggerfish is fun, they’re not very tasty. If you’re looking for delicious fish in Hawaii, you’ll want to target mahi-mahi, striped marlin, and ahi. Where can you find these fine fish species? Read on to discover the 10 best fishing spots in Hawaii this summer.
1. Kōke’e Public Fishing Area
The Kōke’e Public Fishing Area features streams, ditches, and reservoirs throughout the Hawaiian state park on Kaua’i. Anglers must visit the designated check-in stations to report their fishing activities. After checking in, they can fish during the open season between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Throughout the rivers, you’ll be able to find native and introduced species. Some introduced freshwater game species include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, rainbow trout, and bluegill.
2. Haleiwa
On the northwest corner of Oahu, you’ll find Haleiwa, a popular fishing destination. Take advantage of the deep waters off the coast of Haleiwa to catch tuna, Mahi, and marlin. Deep-sea species peak from June through September. It’s one of the best times to catch yellow fish tuna, and they average over 100 lb! Or skip the boat and take advantage of the inshore fishing opportunities. The local reefs are home to grouper, amberjack, triggerfish, and snapper.
3. Kailua-Kona
Kailua-Kona offers one-of-a-kind fishing opportunities. The locals call the hot spot Kona, and it’s a great area for big game fishing. Look no further if you’re on the hunt for wahoo and marlin. You might even catch a trophy-sized fish. The giant marlin loves feeding on the giant squid in the Hawaiian waters. There’s a healthy supply of marlin and wahoo from July through September. However, the spot is great for year-round fishing too. The water is always calm thanks to the mountains blocking the wind.
4. Penguin Banks
Next on our list of the best fishing spots in Hawaii this summer is Penguin Banks. This fishing spot sits in Oahu, and it’s an offshore structure. It is the perfect place for a mixture of bait fish and predators. You’ll be able to find all sorts of species, especially during the summer season. Make sure you bring a cooler with plenty of snacks and refreshments as you’ll be spending a long day out on the water. Penguin Banks sit 20 miles offshore. The journey is worth it, though. Anglers have access to some of the best pelagic fish. Wahoo, mahi-mahi, yellowfin, and skipjack tuna are regular catches.
5. Waianae
You’ll find the Waianae Coast on the west side of Oahu island. It’s a hot spot for anglers throughout Hawaii. There are five fish aggregating devices that attract some of the largest fish to the shore. That means there are tons of opportunities for catching dolphins, blue marlin, yellowfin tuna, and wahoo species. If you want to catch smaller species, then stick to shoreline fishing. However, summertime is the peak season for fishing in Waianae, so expect a crowd.
6. Papaa Bay
If you don’t mind taking a short 20-minute hike, then Papaa Bay offers exciting fishing opportunities. It’s more than earned its name on our list of the best fishing spots in Hawaii this summer. It’s easy to find Papaa Bay. Take the North Aliomanu beach access, and hike until you reach the rocks. It should only take you 15 to 20 minutes, and the hike is full of gorgeous views. You’ll be surrounded by beautiful landscapes and abundant wildlife. Because of the hike, the bay tends to offer more privacy. You might have the entire area all to yourself. Since it isn’t a heavily fished spot, be ready for a lot of action. When the fish are biting, the catches come regularly.
7. Black Rock
You’ll find a peninsula called Black Rock at the northern end of Kaanapali Beach. Snorkelers and anglers love this location because of the different fish species. Perch, triggerfish, mackerel, and turtles are abundant here. It is one of the most abundant fishing beaches in the world, so even a novice angler can make a big catch. Shoreline fishing is fully allowed at Black Rock Beach.
8. Bamboo Ridge
Bamboo Ridge sits between Sandy Beach and Hanauma Bay. For easy access, you’ll want to park in the blowhole parking lot and hike down. The hike isn’t very long, but you’ll need to be careful. Watch out for the high waves coming in. There’s a monument on the hike to honor the fishermen who have drowned in the rising waters. You don’t have to worry, though. As long as you pay attention to the water levels, it can be a perfectly safe spot to spend the day. Bamboo ridge is a great location if you want to get something brag-worthy on the line. The waters feature some of the most aggressive, strongest, and biggest species out there. Take, for instance, the giant billfish! You can catch them in the deep waters all summer long.
9. Ewa Beach
Do you want to escape the tourist scene? Then head over to Ewa Beach. It’s one of the hotter locations on the island and more remote. There’s lots of Papio, omilu, and oio reeled in regularly. The beach is also popular for crevalle jack, butterfly peacock bass, and bluefin trevally. Be sure to bring a cooler filled with ice and drinks to be comfortable with the high temperatures. You’ll also want plenty of water since it’ll be a long distance before you can find a place to refill.
10. Hilo Harbor
One of Hawaii’s best locations for ahi fishing is Hilo Harbor. It sits on the east side of the big island of Hawaii, adjacent to Pohoiki. Ahi tuna swim close to the shore year-round, and they’re particularly active during the summertime. Some of the other species you’ll be able to catch here include black triggerfish, yellowfin tuna, and crevalle jack. Predatory fish enjoy hunting in low-light conditions where they can easily ambush their prey. That’s why twilight is the best time for shallow water fishing at Hilo Harbor. Days following a new moon are also productive. The bright moon makes it difficult for predatory fish to feed at night, forcing them out to your fishing line during the day.
