Ready for a full day of big game action in Kona's famous blue waters? This 8-hour private charter is your ticket to Hawaii's offshore fishing paradise. We'll push out past the reefs, where the ocean floor drops away and the real giants lurk. But here's the kicker - we're not just chasing fish. You'll get the chance to cool off with some world-class snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay. It's the best of both worlds: deep sea thrills and coral reef chills, all in one epic day on the water.
We'll start early, loading up our 47-foot beast of a boat with top-notch gear. As we cruise out, keep your eyes peeled for spinner dolphins - they love to put on a show. Once we hit the deep blue, it's game on. We'll set out a spread of lures, trolling for the big boys like Blue Marlin and Yellowfin Tuna. The captain and mate will be on constant lookout, ready to yell "Fish on!" at any moment. When that reel starts screaming, it's your turn to shine. Wrestling a 400-pound marlin is no joke, but man, is it a rush. Later, we'll swap the rods for snorkel gear and dive into Kealakekua's crystal-clear waters. Tropical fish, sea turtles, and maybe even a curious dolphin - it's like swimming in an aquarium.
Offshore fishing in Kona is all about the troll. We'll be dragging a mix of artificial lures and natural baits like rigged Aku (skipjack tuna). The boat's equipped with outriggers to spread our lures wide, creating a irresistible buffet for passing predators. We use heavy-duty Penn International reels spooled with 130-pound test line - trust me, you'll need it when a big Blue decides to run. Don't sweat it if you're new to this game. The crew will walk you through everything, from setting the drag to the proper fighting technique. It's all about teamwork out here, and we'll make sure you're ready when that dream fish hits.
"Cpt John worked very hard to get our 11 yr old grandson a big fish. Success. We also snorkeled at Cpt Cook memorial. Highly recommend combining a fishing charter and snorkeling. Helps save $$$ too. One charter not two. Outstanding equipment. The very best. 47' boat was very comfortable for our non-fishing Wife (grandmother) who could watch the smiles. Cpt John and first mate we're professional businessmen, retired to years of helping clients like us learn about the big Island and get the most out of a day on the water. Saw Dolphins and had a shark chase one of the tuna we caught. Thanks guys!" - Richard
"Great experience on our trip. Caught two large spearfish and had fun all day. Highly recommend" - Filip
"Awesome trip we had! Caught a big spearfish, the fight was amazing, thanks captain Dave!" - David
Blue Marlin: The undisputed king of Kona's waters. These massive billfish can top 1,000 pounds, though 200-400 pounders are more common. They're known for their spectacular aerial displays and blistering runs that can strip hundreds of yards of line in seconds. Blues are here year-round, but peak season is from June to October. Landing one of these beauties is the holy grail for many anglers.
Yellowfin Tuna (Ahi): Pound for pound, one of the hardest fighting fish in the ocean. These torpedo-shaped speedsters can weigh over 200 pounds and are prized for both their fight and their sushi-grade meat. They often travel in schools, so when you find them, the action can be fast and furious. Best fishing is usually from May to September.
Mahi Mahi (Dorado): With their vibrant blue-green and gold colors, Mahi are as beautiful as they are delicious. They're acrobatic fighters, known for tail-walking across the surface. Typically in the 15-30 pound range, but can grow much larger. They love to hang around floating debris, so we always check any logs or trash we come across. Peak season is March to May.
Shortbill Spearfish: A smaller cousin of the marlin, but what they lack in size they make up for in speed and acrobatics. Averaging 20-40 pounds, these guys are like mini torpedoes, often leaping clear of the water multiple times during the fight. They're a year-round target, but seem to show up in bigger numbers during the winter months.
Striped Marlin: Often overlooked in favor of their bigger Blue cousins, Striped Marlin are no slouch in the fight department. They average 80-120 pounds and are known for their incredible stamina. These fish can run and jump for what seems like forever. Best fishing is typically from December to May.
Look, whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-timer, this trip delivers. We're talking world-class fishing, stunning scenery, and the chance to snorkel in one of Hawaii's most beautiful bays. Our experienced crew will put you on the fish and make sure you have a blast doing it. Just remember to grab that non-resident fishing license online before you come. And hey, given how fuel prices have been lately, there might be a $100 surcharge - but trust me, it's worth every penny for a full day in Kona's legendary waters. So what are you waiting for? Get in touch, lock in your date, and get ready for the offshore adventure of a lifetime. The big ones are out there waiting - let's go catch 'em!
November 8, 2019
Great experience on our trip. Caught two large spearfish and had fun all day. Highly recommend
April 11, 2024
Awesome trip we had! Caught a big spearfish, the fight was amazing, thanks captain Dave!
March 6, 2024
Blue Marlin are the kings of big game fishing here in Kona. These massive billfish can top 1,000 pounds, though most run 250-400. You'll find them in the deep blue waters offshore, often near steep dropoffs or current lines. Summer is prime time, but we catch them year-round. Blues are famous for their power and acrobatics - when they feel the hook, get ready for an epic battle. Many anglers dream of landing a "grander" over 1,000 pounds. Their meat is good eating too, often served as sashimi. To target blues, we troll big lures or live baits like skipjack tuna. Watch for birds working - that can signal marlin feeding below. When you get a strike, let the fish run before setting the hook hard. Be patient and ready for a long fight. My tip? Always have a pitch bait ready in case a big one shows up in the spread.
Mahi Mahi, also called dorado, are some of the most beautiful fish in the ocean. They typically run 15-30 pounds here, though 50+ pounders aren't uncommon. You'll find them near floating debris or weed lines in the open ocean. Spring and summer are best, but we catch them year-round. Mahi are famous for their acrobatic jumps and stunning colors - they literally glow electric blue and green when excited. They're also excellent eating, with firm white meat perfect for grilling. To target mahi, we troll small lures or live baits near floating objects. When you spot one, cast a bait or lure right to it. They often travel in pairs or small schools. My tip? When you hook one, leave it in the water to keep the school around. You can often catch multiple fish from the same group.
Shortbill Spearfish are sleek, powerful fish that typically run 50-75 inches long and weigh up to 100 pounds. You'll find them in deeper, warmer offshore waters around Kona, often near current edges or temperature breaks. They're most active in summer months when water temps rise. Anglers love targeting these fish for their acrobatic jumps and blistering runs. Their firm, white meat is also prized for sashimi. To hook one, try trolling with small lures or rigged baits like ballyhoo. Keep an eye out for frigate birds - they often signal feeding spearfish below. When you get a strike, be ready for some serious speed. These guys can peel off 100 yards of line in seconds. My tip? Use circle hooks to improve your hookup ratio and make releasing them easier if you're not keeping them for the table.
Striped Marlin are the acrobats of the billfish world. They typically run 100-200 pounds here, though larger ones aren't uncommon. You'll find them in the cooler offshore waters, often near current edges or temperature breaks. Winter and spring are prime seasons. Striped marlin are famous for their wild, aerial displays - they'll jump dozens of times during a fight. They're also great eating, often served as sashimi. To target stripeys, we troll small lures or live baits like mackerel or skipjack. Watch for fish "tailing" on the surface - that's a sure sign they're in the area. When you get a strike, let the fish run before setting the hook. Be ready for some spectacular jumps. My tip? Use lighter tackle than you would for blues - it makes the fight even more exciting.
Yellowfin Tuna, or 'ahi' as we call them here, are prized for both their fight and their flavor. Most run 30-100 pounds, but 200+ pounders aren't rare. You'll find them in deep offshore waters, often near temperature breaks or current edges. Fall is peak season, but we catch them year-round. Yellowfin are famous for their blistering runs - they can strip hundreds of yards of line in seconds. Their meat is also world-class, often served as sashimi or poke. To target yellowfin, we troll lures or live baits, or sometimes chum and fish with live bait. Watch for bird activity - that often signals tuna feeding below. When you hook one, be ready for a long, hard fight. My tip? Use circle hooks to improve your chances of a solid hookup in the corner of the mouth.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: J&T Detroit Diesel
Maximum Cruising Speed: 25
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 485
Cpt John worked very hard to get our 11 yr old grandson a big fish. Success. We also snorkeled at Cpt Cook memorial. Highly recommend combining a fishing charter and snorkeling. Helps save $$$ too. One charter not two. Outstanding equipment. The very best. 47’ boat was very comfortable for our non-fishing Wife (grandmother) who could watch the smiles. Cpt John and first mate we’re professional businessmen, retired to years of helping clients like us learn about the big Island and get the most out of a day on the water. Saw Dolphins and had a shark chase one of the tuna we caught. Thanks guys! 1