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Top-Rated Kona Fishing Charters | Offshore Adventure
- Published Date: July 16, 2025
- Fishing
- Kailua-Kona
- Updated Date: November 28, 2025
Summary
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Big Game, Big Smiles
Reel in Big Game on Kailua-Kona's Blue Waters
Ready to test your skills against some of Hawaii's most prized offshore species? Our 4-hour charter out of Kailua-Kona puts you right in the action zone for hooking into monster marlin, tasty mahi-mahi, and hard-fighting tuna. Whether you're an experienced angler or just getting your sea legs, our crew will make sure you have a shot at landing the catch of a lifetime. We've got the know-how, the gear, and the hot spots - all you need to bring is your game face and a good attitude!
What to Expect on the Water
Our trips kick off from the bustling Kailua-Kona harbor, where you'll meet your licensed captain and seasoned crew. We offer flexible departure times to fit your schedule, whether you're an early bird looking to hit the water at dawn or prefer a midday or afternoon run. Once aboard our well-maintained vessel, we'll cruise out to the productive fishing grounds just offshore. The Big Island's steep underwater terrain creates the perfect habitat for big pelagic species to hunt, and we know just where to find them. You'll spend your half-day trolling with top-of-the-line gear, ready to spring into action when that reel starts screaming. Our crew is always on hand to offer tips, help you fight fish, and make sure you're having a blast out on the blue.
Techniques for Offshore Success
Offshore fishing in Kona is all about covering water and presenting lures that big predators can't resist. We primarily use trolling techniques, pulling a spread of artificial lures, rigged ballyhoo, or live bait behind the boat. The crew will set you up with heavy-duty stand-up rods and two-speed reels loaded with braided line - essential for battling powerful fish that can weigh hundreds of pounds. We might also deploy teasers or run deep lines to target specific species. When a fish hits, it's all hands on deck! You'll take the rod while the crew coaches you through the fight. It's a team effort out here, and nothing beats the rush of seeing a lit-up marlin or big tuna come up behind the boat after a long battle.
What Anglers Are Saying
"Captain Jim and Dave made us feel welcome. We tried for big game fish, but didn't get any. We did, however, come back with nearly 100 lbs of skipjack tuna (it makes for excellent poké). Would recommend!" - Evan
"Great trip. Will book with Jim and Konadice again next time" - Chad
Species You'll Want to Hook
Blue Marlin: The crown jewel of Kona fishing, blue marlin are the stuff of angling legend. These massive billfish can top 1,000 pounds, though fish in the 100-400 pound range are more common. They're known for their spectacular aerial displays and blistering runs that can empty a reel in seconds. Blues are present year-round in Kona, but peak season is typically June through October. Landing one of these giants is a true bucket-list achievement for any offshore angler.
Mahi Mahi (Dorado): With their vibrant colors and acrobatic fights, mahi mahi are a favorite among both anglers and seafood lovers. These fish grow fast and can reach over 50 pounds, though 15-30 pounders are more typical. They often travel in schools, so when you find them, the action can be non-stop. Mahi mahi are most abundant in Kona waters from May through October. Their firm, white flesh makes for excellent eating - many crews will gladly fillet your catch for some of the freshest fish tacos you'll ever taste.
Yellowfin Tuna (Ahi): Prized for both their fighting ability and their sushi-grade meat, yellowfin tuna are a staple of the Kona offshore scene. These muscular fish can top 200 pounds, though 30-100 pounders are more common. They're known for long, powerful runs and can test even experienced anglers. Yellowfin are present year-round but tend to be most abundant from May through September. Whether you're looking for a trophy fish or just want some primo poke, yellowfin are always a welcome sight.
Shortbill Spearfish: A smaller cousin of the marlin, shortbill spearfish are prized for their tasty meat and sporty fights on lighter tackle. These streamlined predators typically run 20-40 pounds and are known for their blistering speed and acrobatic leaps. They're most common in Kona waters from December through May, offering great action during the "off-season" for larger gamefish. Spearfish make for excellent eating and are a favorite among locals.
Wahoo (Ono): With their razor-sharp teeth and blazing speed, wahoo are like the barracudas of the open ocean. These sleek predators can hit lures at over 60 mph and make screaming runs that will have your drag singing. Most Kona wahoo run 20-40 pounds, but fish over 100 pounds are possible. They're present year-round but tend to be most abundant in the summer months. Wahoo offer great action on both trolled lures and live bait, and their firm, white flesh is considered a delicacy.
Time to Book Your Spot
Our 4-hour offshore charters offer the perfect mix of big-game potential and schedule flexibility. Whether you're a dedicated angler or just want to try your hand at some world-class fishing, Kailua-Kona's blue waters are calling. With our experienced crew, top-notch gear, and local knowledge, you've got a great shot at tangling with some of Hawaii's most sought-after gamefish. Don't miss your chance to create some unforgettable fishing memories - spots fill up fast, especially during peak season. Book your charter today and get ready to experience the thrill of Kona's legendary offshore action!
Customer Reviews
Skipjack Bonanza
Evan Smith
April 21, 2025
Jims Fishing Magic
Great trip. Will book with Jim and Konadice again next time
Chad Carter
August 5, 2024
Learn more about the animals
Blue Marlin
Blue Marlin are the heavyweight champs of big game fishing here in Kona. These monsters can top 1,000 pounds, with females growing much larger than males. You'll find them in our deep offshore waters year-round, but peak season is summer through fall. Blues are known for their incredible power and acrobatic jumps - hooking one is like tying into a runaway freight train. Anglers come from all over to test their skills against these giants. When targeting blues, we troll big lures or live baits like skipjack tuna. The fight can last hours, so patience and stamina are key. One local trick: keep an eye out for frigatebirds - they often lead us right to the marlin feeding grounds. Whether you're after a record catch or just want to experience the thrill of the fight, Blue Marlin are the ultimate offshore challenge.
Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish
Mahi Mahi are some of the most beautiful and exciting fish you'll catch offshore. They're fast growers, usually 15-30 pounds but can get up to 80. Look for them near floating debris or weed lines - they love to hang out under anything that creates shade. Mahi are available year-round, but spring and summer are best. These acrobatic fighters put on a real show when hooked, with spectacular leaps and powerful runs. Anglers love targeting them for the action-packed fights and their excellent eating quality. The meat is mild and sweet, great for grilling or searing. When trolling for mahi, I like to use small to medium-sized lures that skip across the surface. A local tip: if you hook one, keep it in the water - others will often follow it to the boat, giving you a shot at multiple fish.
Shortbill Spearfish
Shortbill Spearfish are sleek, powerful fish that pack a punch for their size. They typically run 50-75 inches long and weigh up to 115 pounds. You'll find them in deep, warm offshore waters around Hawaii, often near the surface. These guys are fast swimmers and acrobatic fighters, known to leap and tailwalk when hooked. Spring and summer are prime seasons, but they can be caught year-round. Anglers love targeting them for the exciting fight and their excellent table fare. The meat is similar to marlin but with a more pronounced flavor. When trolling for shortbills, I like to use small lures or baits rigged with circle hooks - they tend to strike fast and hard, so be ready for some quick action when that reel starts screaming.
Wahoo Fish
Wahoo are the speed demons of the ocean, capable of bursts over 60 mph. These sleek, torpedo-shaped fish typically run 3-5 feet long and 30-50 pounds. You'll find them in our deep offshore waters, often near drop-offs or underwater structures. Summer and fall are prime wahoo seasons here. Anglers love targeting them for their blistering runs and tasty white meat. When a wahoo hits, hang on tight - they're known for smoking reels and cutting lines with their razor-sharp teeth. We usually troll for them at high speeds, 12-15 knots, using wire leaders and lures that can handle the pace. One local trick: try using purple and black lures, especially on overcast days. Wahoo have excellent eyesight and seem to key in on those colors. Whether you're after a trophy fish or some of the best-eating fillets in the ocean, wahoo are always an exciting catch.
Yellowcheek Wrasse
Yellowcheek Wrasse are colorful little characters you'll spot around our reefs. They max out around 11 inches, with vibrant blue and yellow patterns that make them a favorite for snorkelers and divers. You'll find them in shallow coral areas, usually 20-100 feet deep. They're active during the day, darting around picking at small crustaceans and worms. While not a major sport fish, they can be fun to target with light tackle if you're looking for something different. Use small hooks and bits of shrimp or worm for bait. The best time to catch them is during incoming tides when they're feeding more actively. Locals appreciate their mild, sweet flavor, but most folks practice catch and release to help preserve the reef ecosystem. If you do keep one, be sure to release it gently at the surface - they don't handle big drops well.
About the Sportfishing Boats
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: 6bta 5.9l Cummins Diesel
Maximum Cruising Speed: 17
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 330
Captain Jim and Dave made us feel welcome. We tried for big game fish, but didn’t get any. We did, however, come back with nearly 100 lbs of skipjack tuna (it makes for excellent poké). Would recommend!