These 12 Amazing Spots In Hawaii Are Perfect To Go Fishing
Discover the best fishing spots in Hawaii, from secluded coves to popular harbors, perfect for both novice and experienced anglers.
Anyone can fish with a pole on the Hawaiian shore without a salt-water fishing license, so grab your pole and tackle box, pick up some live bait, and head to the best fishing spots in Hawai'i. Regulations apply more to spearfishing, freshwater fishing, and selling anything you catch. However, there are some regulated areas, which you can learn more about on the State of Hawaii Division of Aquatic Resources website. While fishing in Hawaii, you might catch Ulua, barracuda, bonefish, Bluefin trevally, snapper, peacock grouper, unicorn fish, and even sharks! Let's take a look at the best fishing in Hawai'i.
1. South Point, Big Island
One of the island's most popular fishing spots and the southernmost point in the United States, Ka Lae’s confluence of ocean currents just offshore makes this spot full of red snapper Ulua. It is also heavily secluded, and as a result, is quite littered and may provide a threat to wildlife. South Point is mesmerizing.
2. Kaena Point, Oahu
With 112 miles of coastline, Oahu has numerous shore fishing opportunities for novice and experienced fishers alike. Secluded Kaena Point, which can only be accessed via a four-wheel-drive vehicle or on foot, is a popular spot for catching ulua and other deep water fish. Get an aerial view of gorgeous Kaena Point:
3. Anahola Bay & River, Kauai
Fishing is plentiful in both Anahola Bay and the Anahola River, which feeds into the bay. Follow the dirt road past the park to the end; a trail will then take you the rest of the way to the point. Your odds will be best in the early morning hours, or late in the evening.
4. Makena Landing, Maui
An ideal cove to launch your kayak from, Makena Landing is also popular for fishing, snorkeling, and shore dives. If you plan to fish from your kayak, this is the perfect spot. See what it’s like to go snorkeling at Makena Landing:
5. Kona Coast, Big Island
With four distinct Fisheries Management Zone Areas, the southwest coast of Hawaii is an ideal spot to do some fishing. However, please note that fishing in this area is reserved for personal consumption only, and collecting any aquarium fish is prohibited. The Kona Coast is amazingly beautiful, and so are the fish here!
6. Pearl Harbor, Oahu
Records show that Samoan crabs, as well as ladyfish, greenjack, and colorful goatfish have been found in Pearl Harbor. Consider fishing off the pier as well – the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation suggests fishing on piers because the rocks underneath attract fish.
7. Nawiliwili Harbor, Kauai
It is prohibited to use a net more than three feet wide in this bay, but at just a ten-minute drive from the Lihue airport, it is a popular spot for shoreline fishing – as well as catching a fishing charter to explore the open waters of the Pacific. Nawiliwili Harbor is one of those fishing spots you don't want to pass up.
8. Lahaina Beach, Maui
Though Lahaina Beach isn’t known for a great deal of variety – think triggerfish, parrotfish, and the occasional needlefish – it is still a popular and accessible fishing spot, especially at night.
9. Kahuku Point, Oahu
Located within a small town on Oahu’s northeastern shore, Kahuku Beach is popular among fishermen (and women). Due to a long limestone shelf and rocky ocean floor that makes entering the water difficult, swimming is not popular here, which in turn, makes it a haven for fish. The town is also known for its shrimp trucks - grabbing lunch in town is a must! Get a bird’s-eye view of gorgeous Kahuku Point:
10. Honokohau Harbor, Big Island
The Big Island’s Kona Coast is mecca for sport fishing in Hawaii, and nowhere will you find better deep-sea fishing charters than in Honokohau Harbor. It is recommended that you go out on the water for an entire day, to really experience the best the coast has to offer in terms of fishing.
11. Anini Beach, Kauai
Located on Kauai’s Na Pali Coast, there is perhaps no place more scenic than Anini Beach for swimming, paddling, camping, and fishing. Imagine camping on the beach and casting a line out whenever you would like.
12. Barbers Point Beach Park, Oahu
Poor swimming conditions make this Leeward Oahu small, sandy beach perfect for fishermen who want to enjoy a day on the water without worrying about beachgoers getting in the way. Barber's Point Beach is unforgettable... much like all of Hawaii, really.
We'll be honest – because Hawaii has so many miles of coastline, there are countless spots for shoreline fishing. What is the biggest fish you’ve caught in Hawaii? Tell us about it in the comments, as well as your favorite locations with the best fishing in Hawaii. If you're up for some swimming or surfing, check out these amazing beaches in Hawai'i.
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