Kona Fishing & Snorkel Adventure | Silky Sportfishing

Published Date: July 16, 2025
Fishing

Kona
$790 - $1,290 price range

Summary

Ready for a taste of offshore fishing with a Hawaiian twist? This 6-hour charter out of Kailua Kona blends big game angling with the option to cool off in Kealakekua Bay's pristine waters. You'll be targeting prized catches like Mahi Mahi and Tuna, feeling the rush as your line goes tight. If you're up for it, cap off your day by slipping into the bay's crystal-clear shallows for some world-class snorkeling. It's a perfect mix of deep sea action and tropical relaxation. The crew at Silky Sportfishing tailors the trip to what you're after, whether that's purely fishing or a combo adventure. Just remember to grab your non-resident fishing license beforehand, and keep in mind there might be a fuel surcharge depending on prices. With room for up to 6 guests, it's an ideal outing for friends or family looking to reel in some unforgettable Kona memories.

Kona Fishing & Snorkel Adventure | Silky Sportfishing

Kona's Deep Blue Treasures

Breathtaking Kailua-Kona landscape, fishing adventure

Kona Big Game Fishing Adventures

Deep Sea Fishing Trips in Kona

Catch Marlin in Kona Today

Top Kona Fishing Charters Booked

Reel in Adventure: Kona's Ultimate Fishing & Snorkel Trip

Ready to experience the best of both worlds in Kailua Kona? Our 6-hour private charter combines world-class offshore fishing with the option to snorkel in one of Hawaii's most breathtaking marine sanctuaries. Whether you're chasing big game fish or want to mix in some underwater exploration, this trip is tailored to give you the full Kona experience.

Trip Overview

Hop aboard the Silky, our top-notch fishing vessel, for a day you won't forget. We'll start by heading offshore to target some of Hawaii's most sought-after gamefish. Think monster Mahi Mahi, hard-fighting Yellowfin Tuna, and if luck's on our side, maybe even a Blue Marlin. But here's where we shake things up - after the fishing action, you can cool off with some snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay. It's like getting two trips in one, and trust me, it's a combo that keeps our guests coming back year after year.

What to Expect on the Water

We'll be using tried-and-true Kona fishing techniques to put you on the fish. Trolling is the name of the game out here, and we've got our spread dialed in. We'll be pulling a mix of lures and maybe even some live bait if the conditions are right. The Silky is set up for comfort, with plenty of space for everyone to move around and fish. And when it's time to snorkel, we've got all the gear you need. Just remember to grab that non-resident marine fishing license before you come - you can snag it online to save time.

Customer Stories

"We have been coming to Kona for 14 years.Many different boats, but the silky is the best. Captain Dave and William. Put us on 2 blues and a striped marlin the best day on the water by far. The boat is setup so everyone has a comfortable space. The bridge has ample room for all unlike most boats" - Mike

"Had an amazing time on the water with Dave and Cam. They had us hooked up on a huge Blue Marlin not even 10 minutes out of the harbor! Very professional duo and the boat was very comfortable. We'll definitely look to fish with them again the next time we visit Kona" - Jason

"We did a six hour snorkel/fishing charter out of Kona during Spring Break. We looked for a family friendly boat since we were fishing with a 11 and 14 year old. Captain John and his mate Billy couldn't have been more professional and nicer to my children. We ended up hooking three tuna and a juvenile marlin (which was tagged and released). The snorkeling area we visited was beautiful and they supplied all the gear. I highly recommend fishing off the Silky with John and Billy whether you're a seasoned vet or out with your kids for a great day." - Jason

Species You'll Want to Hook

Shortbill Spearfish: These sleek speedsters are a blast to catch. They're not as big as their marlin cousins, but what they lack in size, they make up for in fight. Spearfish are known for their acrobatic leaps and blistering runs. They're most common in Kona waters from December through May, so winter and spring trips give you the best shot at hooking one of these beauties.

Blue Marlin: The crown jewel of big game fishing, Kona's Blue Marlin are the stuff of legends. These massive fish can top 1,000 pounds, though most catches are in the 100-300 pound range. Blues are known for their spectacular aerial displays and powerful runs that can strip hundreds of yards of line in seconds. While they can be caught year-round in Kona, the peak season is from June to October.

Mahi Mahi: Also known as Dorado or Dolphinfish, Mahi Mahi are one of the most colorful and delicious fish in the ocean. They're fast-growing and quick to bite, making them a favorite for both novice and experienced anglers. Mahi often travel in pairs or small schools, so when you hook one, be ready for more action. These fish are available year-round in Kona, with the best fishing typically from March to August.

Yellowfin Tuna: Locally known as 'Ahi', Yellowfin Tuna are prized for both their fighting ability and their sushi-grade meat. These powerful fish can weigh over 200 pounds and are known for their long, deep runs. Yellowfin can be caught year-round in Kona, but the peak season is from May to September. When a big Yellowfin hits, hold on tight - you're in for a workout!

Striped Marlin: The most common marlin species in Kona waters, Striped Marlin are known for their incredible speed and agility. They're smaller than Blue Marlin, typically weighing between 80 and 200 pounds, but what they lack in size they make up for in acrobatics. Striped Marlin are famous for their tail-walking displays across the water's surface. The best time to target them is from December to May.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

It's not just about the fish - though let's be honest, the fishing here is top-notch. What sets our trips apart is the flexibility and the expertise we bring to the table. Want to focus solely on fishing? We've got you covered. Looking to mix it up with some snorkeling? No problem. Our captains know these waters like the back of their hand, and they're always happy to share their knowledge. Plus, with a maximum of 6 guests, you're guaranteed a personalized experience. And let's not forget the views - there's nothing quite like watching the sun set over the Pacific after a day of battling big fish.

Time to Book Your Spot

Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to check a Blue Marlin off your bucket list or a family wanting to mix fishing with some underwater exploration, our 6-hour charter has something for everyone. With comfortable accommodations, expert guidance, and some of the best fishing grounds in the world right at our doorstep, this trip is a must-do for anyone visiting Kailua Kona. Just remember that $100 fuel surcharge might apply depending on current prices - a small price to pay for a day of unforgettable memories. So what are you waiting for? Grab your sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and let's hit the water!

Customer Reviews

Silky Kona Magic

We have been coming to Kona for 14 years.Many different boats, but the silky is the best. Captain Dave and William. Put us on 2 blues and a striped marlin the best day on the water by far. The boat is setup so everyone has a comfortable space. The bridge has ample room for all unlike most boats

Mike Tamman

March 5, 2025

Instant Marlin Thrill

Had an amazing time on the water with Dave and Cam. They had us hooked up on a huge Blue Marlin not even 10 minutes out of the harbor! Very professional duo and the boat was very comfortable. We’ll definitely look to fish with them again the next time we visit Kona

Jason Ummel

April 12, 2024

Family Fish Fantasy

We did a six hour snorkel/fishing charter out of Kona during Spring Break. We looked for a family friendly boat since we were fishing with a 11 and 14 year old. Captain John and his mate Billy couldn't have been more professional and nicer to my children. We ended up hooking three tuna and a juvenile marlin (which was tagged and released). The snorkeling area we visited was beautiful and they supplied all the gear. I highly recommend fishing off the Silky with John and Billy whether you're a seasoned vet or out with your kids for a great day.

Jason Boles

October 3, 2020

Wahoo Win With Silky

Great time today with Captain Dave and Kris, we only came back with 1 flag flying a 20+pound Wahoo and two lost hits, but 1/2 the boats came back empty, so we were happy.

Gordon MacKenzie

June 10, 2024

Learn more about the species

Blue Marlin

Blue Marlin are the heavyweight champs of the billfish world, and Kona's known for some real monsters. These guys can top 1,000 pounds, though 250-400 is more common. They're deep blue on top, fading to white below, with that iconic long bill. You'll find Blues in the warm offshore waters, often following temperature breaks and current edges. They're here year-round, but peak season is usually summer through early fall when the water warms up. Anglers chase Blues for the ultimate big-game challenge. When hooked, they put on a wild show - greyhounding across the surface and making blistering runs. It's a true test of skill and endurance that can last hours. We usually troll big lures or live bait like skipjack tuna. One local tip: watch for birds working over bait schools, as Blues often hunt in these areas. If you hook up, be ready for a long fight. Stay patient, keep the rod tip up, and work the fish methodically. The meat's good eating too - firm and flavorful, great for grilling or sashimi. Just remember, these giants are catch-and-release for most folks. Landing a Blue Marlin is an unforgettable experience you'll be talking about for years.

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

Mahi Mahi, also called Dorado, are one of our most popular catches. They're known for their vibrant colors - electric blue and green on top, golden yellow on the sides. Most run 15-30 pounds, though 50-pounders aren't uncommon. You'll find Mahi near the surface, often around floating debris or weed lines. They're here year-round, but fishing really picks up in spring and summer when the water warms. Anglers love Mahi for their acrobatic fights and delicious meat. When hooked, they make spectacular leaps and fast runs. The meat is mild and flaky, perfect for grilling or fish tacos. We usually troll small lures or live bait like ballyhoo. One local trick: if you hook one, keep it in the water. Mahi often travel in schools, and the hooked fish will attract others. Sometimes you can get multiple hookups this way. Mahi are fast growers and quick to reproduce, so they're a great sustainable choice. Whether you're after a fight or just some fresh fish for dinner, Mahi are always a crowd-pleaser on our trips.

Shortbill Spearfish

Shortbill Spearfish are sleek, fast swimmers known for their distinctive look. They're smaller than other billfish, typically 5-6 feet long and weighing 40-50 pounds. You'll find them in the open ocean, often near the surface. These guys are seasonal visitors to Kona waters, usually showing up in good numbers from late spring through summer. Anglers love targeting Shortbills for their acrobatic fights and tasty meat. When hooked, they put on quite a show with jumps and runs. The flesh is similar to Marlin but with a more pronounced flavor - great for grilling or sashimi. To catch one, we'll troll with small lures or live bait like small tuna. Keep an eye out for frigate birds - they often follow schools of tuna that Shortbills are feeding on. A local trick: use fluorocarbon leaders, as these fish have excellent eyesight and can be leader-shy. Remember, Shortbills are fast and can shake hooks easily. Stay alert and be ready to adjust drag quickly when one hits. It's an exciting catch that'll test your skills and reward you with some great table fare.

Striped Marlin

Striped Marlin are the acrobats of the billfish family. They're smaller than Blues, usually 100-200 pounds, with a more slender build. True to their name, they have distinctive blue stripes along their sides. You'll find Striped Marlin in the open ocean, often near current edges or temperature breaks. They're most common here in winter and spring, though we can catch them year-round. Anglers prize Striped Marlin for their spectacular aerial displays. When hooked, they put on a show like no other - leaping and tail-walking across the surface. It's an adrenaline rush you won't forget. We usually troll with lures or live bait like small tuna. One local trick: keep an eye out for tailing fish on the surface. Striped Marlin often hunt this way, and it's a great chance for a sight cast. The meat's good eating too - similar to Swordfish but with a bit more flavor. Just remember, most folks catch and release these beauties. Landing a Striped Marlin is a real achievement, a perfect mix of skill and luck that'll test any angler.

Yellowfin Tuna

Yellowfin Tuna, known locally as Ahi, are prized for both sport and table. These torpedoes can top 200 pounds, though 30-80 is more common. They're sleek and muscular, with distinctive yellow fins that give them their name. You'll find Yellowfin in the open ocean, often near temperature breaks or current edges. They're here year-round, but fishing really heats up in summer and fall when larger schools move through. Anglers love Yellowfin for their blistering runs and incredible stamina. When hooked, they dive deep and fight hard. The meat is top-notch too - rich and flavorful, perfect for sashimi or grilled steaks. We usually troll lures or live bait like small tuna. One local tip: watch for bird activity, especially frigate birds. They often lead us to feeding schools of Yellowfin. If we find a hot bite, we might switch to chunking or vertical jigging to really get into them. Bring your A-game when targeting Yellowfin. They're strong and fast, capable of spooling a reel if you're not careful. But the reward is worth it - both in the fight and at the dinner table. It's hard to beat fresh Ahi caught off Kona.

About the The Silky

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: J&T Detroit Diesel

Maximum Cruising Speed: 25

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 485

Ready for a day of fishing and fun in the Hawaiian sun? Hop aboard our Kona fishing charter for a 6-hour adventure that combines the best of offshore angling with optional snorkeling. We'll cruise out into the deep blue Pacific, where you'll have the chance to reel in prized catches like Mahi Mahi and Tuna. After trying your luck with the rod and reel, cool off with a refreshing dip in the pristine waters of Kealakekua Bay. This protected marine sanctuary offers some of the best snorkeling on the Big Island, with colorful fish and coral reefs to explore. Whether you're an avid angler or just looking to mix some fishing with underwater sightseeing, we've got you covered. Remember to grab your non-resident marine fishing license online before setting sail. And heads up - there might be a $100 fuel surcharge, depending on current prices at the pump. So grab your sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and let's make some waves!

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