Deep Sea Fishing

Whether you’re visiting Oahu, or another of Hawaii’s top sportfishing locations, you’ll want to know what to expect deep sea fishing before you ‘dive’ in. Read through our what to expect resource before you head out. It includes helpful information on what the day will be like, what to bring, and how to make the most of your experience.

Deep sea fishing is a form of fishing that requires you to be at least 30 meters from shore. On charter boats, fisherman/woman have the opportunity to experience an entirely different kind of fishing with an array of exotic fish including Yellowfin Tuna (Ahi) and Mahi Mahi. In other words, fish you would never see floating by in shallow water. (Unless something has gone very wrong!)

Deep sea fishing, also commonly called sport fishing or saltwater fishing, is best experienced in Oahu, Hawaii, thanks to fish like the Blue Marlin that can weigh up to 1000 pounds! Unless you’re planning on standing by the tracks and reeling in a freight train, there’s nothing quite like the sensation of hooking a marlin or swordfish on the end of your line!

While the weather in Hawaii is beautiful year round, the best time for fishing is in spring and summer, April – September, when the island sees more sunshine and less rain. Our hottest month is August, so if you’re visiting us then, pack plenty of sunscreen and bring a wide-brimmed hat!

You can expect a variety of fish depending on the season, but most commonly you will see Marlin and Mahi Mahi (dolphin fish). The Marlin you will find come in three different varieties, the Pacific Blue Marlin, the Striped Marlin, and, although its appearance is rare, the Black Marlin all the way from Australia. Other common fish you’ll find are Wahoo as well as several varieties of tuna, including the Skipjack and Yellowfin tuna.  If you’ve got your heart set on finding a particular fish, please plan your trip accordingly!

Your wellness on board begins before you arrive. Get a good night’s sleep and come focused. Avoid drinking too heavily the night before as you will need to be up and alert very early in the morning. You know your own body. Treat it right before you go out deep sea fishing so that you can have the best experience possible out on the water.

Bring boat shoes if you can and if not, bring shoes with a very good grip. The floor of the boat can get slick while walking the deck.

If you often get seasick or suffer from motion sickness, plan accordingly. Even if you’re not used to getting seasick, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Here are a few quick tips for avoiding sea sickness:

Continue learning about seasickness: Ways to Keep From Getting Seasick.  For the sake of yourself, the people joining you, and our crew please listen to your body.

Every deep sea fishing experience is a little different, which is what makes it so exciting. No two trips are alike, so we hope you will come back and fish with us again soon. Next time you join us, consider a different time of year so that you have a better chance of catching other types of fish. If you’re hoping to catch a specific fish, you can learn more about seasonal trends under our Hawaii fish section.