YOUR KONA FISHING DAY STARTS HERE.
what makes fishing in kona special?
Kona sits along a rare stretch of coastline where the ocean floor drops from shoreline shallows to over 6,000 feet deep within just a few miles. These steep underwater slopes interact with warm Pacific currents, creating nutrient-rich conditions that attract pelagic species year-round.
As a result, Kona is globally known for consistent catches of blue marlin, striped marlin, yellowfin tuna (ahi), wahoo (ono), and mahi mahi, often with short travel times from harbor to fishing grounds.
what fish can you catch in kona?
Kona is known for its diverse mix of pelagic game fish, many of which are present year-round thanks to warm Pacific currents and deep offshore waters close to shore. Depending on the season and conditions, anglers commonly encounter blue marlin, striped marlin, yellowfin tuna (ahi), wahoo (ono), mahi mahi, and occasionally shortbill spearfish. This consistency is why Kona has long been regarded as one of the world’s premier sportfishing destinations.
Where do most fishing charters in kona launch from?
Most Kona fishing charters depart from Honokōhau Small Boat Harbor, located just north of Kailua-Kona. It’s the primary hub for sportfishing on the Big Island, with direct access to deep offshore waters only minutes from the harbor entrance.
Honokōhau Harbor is preferred because it offers:
Fast access to deep water and fishing grounds
Protected docking, fuel, and marina facilities
Easy parking and straightforward check-in for guests
This means less time navigating harbors and coastlines.. and more time with lines in the water.
Who should you go fishing with in Kona?
Kona is home to many established fishing charters, with captains who have spent decades running these waters. Most are owner-operated, locally based, and deeply familiar with Kona’s offshore conditions, seasons, and fish behavior. While every charter offers a slightly different experience—boat size, fishing style, group size—the common thread is experience earned over thousands of days at sea.
The best choice depends on what matters most to you: trip length, group size, target species, or overall vibe. Exploring your options side by side makes it easier to find the right fit.
