Hooking Success: Your Ultimate Guide to Oahu Fishing Charters

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Dream of reeling in a massive blue marlin against the stunning backdrop of Hawaii? Or perhaps you’re itching to dive into the heart-pumping world of Hawaiian sportfishing you’ve only heard epic stories about. Welcome to Oahu — a fisherman’s paradise where the deep blue is alive with an abundance of fish just waiting for a fight.

Consider this guide your secret tackle box filled with the kind of knowledge that will put you ahead of even the most seasoned anglers. Whether you’re just dipping your toes into the sport or have saltwater in your veins, cast your line, and let’s hook success on your next Oahu fishing charter.

Choosing Your Charter: The Key to a Trophy Catch

When it comes to deep-sea fishing, selecting the right charter can make all the difference. It’s the difference between landing that bucket-list catch or just tanning with a fishing rod in hand — and let’s be honest, you’re not here just for the tan, are you?

So, how do you choose the best fishing charter Oahu has to offer? Here are some key factors to consider:

Hawaii wahoo(Ono) caught on during one of Flyer Sportfishing Oahu fishing charters, North Shore, HI near Haleiwa boat harbor. Fishing Experience: Are you a beginner or an experienced angler? Make sure to choose a charter that caters to your skill level. In addition, some fishing charter companies offer fighting chairs while others do not.

Targeted Species: Different charters specialize in catching different types of fish. Do your research and find out which fish species you want to target, and then choose a charter that focuses on that.

Type of Charter:  There are a variety of charters available, from half-day to full-day trips, shared or private charters. Determine your preferences and budget before making a decision.

Boat Size: The size of the boat can affect your overall fishing experience. Larger boats may provide more comfort and amenities, while smaller boats may allow for a more personalized trip.

Reviews: Don’t forget to read reviews from previous customers to get an idea of their experiences with the fishing charter company. This can give you valuable insights into the quality of service and success rates.

Once you’ve considered these factors, you can narrow down your options and choose the perfect charter for your Oahu fishing adventure.

What to Bring: Essentials for a Successful Fishing Trip

Now that you’ve chosen your charter, it’s time to pack your bags and gear up for an exciting day on the water. Here are some essential items to bring on your Oahu fishing trip:

Sun Protection: The Hawaiian sun can be intense, so make sure to bring reef-safe sunscreen (rub-ons are better than sprays), sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself.

Comfortable Clothing: Choose clothing that is comfortable and appropriate for the weather. Layering is also recommended, as it can get chilly on the water.

Motion Sickness Medication: If you’re prone to seasickness, don’t forget to pack some medication or other remedies to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Camera: Capturing your catch on camera is a must; Flyer Sportfishing’s charter boat has plenty of space to keep your camera dry.

Refreshments: Some charters may provide refreshments, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks.

Fishing Gear: When you book your Hawaii fishing charter with us, there is no need to worry about bringing your rod. The Flyer is stocked with meticulously maintained, top-of-the-line Shimano rods and reels!

Make sure to check with your charter beforehand for any specific items they recommend bringing. It’s also important to pack lightly and avoid bringing unnecessary items that can clutter the boat and hinder your fishing experience.

The Thrill of Fishing in Hawaii

Now that you’re all set and ready for your fishing trip, let’s talk about the thrill of fishing in Hawaii. The Hawaiian Islands are home to a wide variety of fish species, including striped and blue marlin, yellow-fin tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and more. Here are some tips to help you maximize your chances of landing a trophy catch:

Listen to the Captain: The captain and crew are experienced in these waters and know the best spots for a successful catch. Listen to their advice and follow their instructions.

Be Patient: Fishing is all about patience, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t get a bite right away. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings and wait for the perfect moment.

Stay Alert: Keep your eyes on the water and be ready to act quickly when you feel a tug on your line. The fight with a big fish can be intense, so stay focused and follow the captain’s guidance.

Have Fun: Most importantly, don’t forget to have fun! Fishing in Oahu is not just about catching fish but also about enjoying the voyage and creating lasting memories.Flyer sport fishing charters, Oahu. Deep-sea fishing adventure, Hawaii.

Ready to Hook Success? Book Your Charter with Flyer Sportfishing Today!

Now that you have all the necessary knowledge and tips, it’s time to book your Oahu fishing charter and experience the thrill of a lifetime. At Flyer Sportfishing, we offer top-of-the-line deep-sea charters and experienced captains who will guide you every step of the way. Our goal is to provide an unforgettable fishing adventure for our guests, so come aboard and let’s hook success together! See you on the water!

Additional Content

Sustainable Fishing: As responsible anglers, it’s important to practice sustainable fishing techniques to protect the ocean and marine wildlife. This includes following catch limits and Hawaii fishing regulations, using non-toxic fishing gear, and properly handling and releasing any unwanted catches.

Fishing Seasonality: The waters of Oahu offer great fishing opportunities year-round, but different fish species may be more abundant during certain seasons. Do some research and plan your trip accordingly to increase your chances of catching specific fish.

Other Activities: Oahu is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, so why not combine your fishing trip with other activities? From snorkeling to surfing, there’s plenty to do on the island. Don’t forget to leave some time for exploring and enjoying all that Oahu has to offer.

Supporting Local Businesses: By choosing a local company like Flyer Sportfishing, you not only support the tourism industry but also contribute to the livelihood of small businesses in the area. Plus, local charters have a deep knowledge and love for the fishing grounds, making for a more authentic and personalized experience.  So, next time you plan your Oahu vacation, make sure to support small and locally-owned businesses.

Fishing on the North Shore of Oahu is an experience like no other. The combination of stunning scenery, abundant marine life, and expert guides make it a top destination for anglers worldwide. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable fishing adventure off the coast of Oahu’s North Shore.

Have additional questions about our Oahu fishing charters or need general information that may improve your Hawaiian vacation,  don’t hesitate to reach out by email or call (808)365-2520. Aloha, Jared.

Oahu Winter Fishing Season

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Hi, this is Captain Jared Dow with Flyer Sportfishing at www.fishoahu.com. I just wanted to give you all a heads up about what’s been happening up here on Oahu’s North Shore lately this fall season.  With calm waters, Opelu ( a type of mackerel we use for live bait) biting well, and our FAD (fish aggregating device) holding size Mahi Mahis, it’s made for some unforgettable experiences for our clients! The biggest Mahi Mahi we caught recently topped the scale at 44.5#! That’s a really nice size bull. We have had plenty of days seeing 20-plus fish in a day, too. So, great numbers and good size make for good times! Last week, there was an off-season run of big, 100-160# class Yellowfin Tuna running around out far but accessible for our full-day charters, too! Striped Marlin is starting to show up, too, and there’s always a chance with lures in the water if catching a giant Blue Marlin. There were a few over 500#s last month that came to the dock. The state of Hawaii has had a grander size marlin caught every month of the year. You never know until you go! The new motor we installed last February is purring along. Captain Alex and crew are just waiting for you to book a trip to make it happen!

North Shore Winter Fishing Conditions & More

Flyer trolling boat at sea of the coast of the north shore.In another month, the Humpback Whales will be here too to offer some extra action while waiting for the reel to start screaming as they tail kick, breach, and play around. With all the signs we have been seeing and the fishing charter boat in top shape, we are expecting to have a great winter season. Speaking of winter. One thing I’d like to mention again and talk about more is the big swells that we get in the winter, which is misunderstood by so many. People tend to think that if the waves are big along the shoreline, then the swells offshore will be big and scary, too. That is not the case at all. The swell we get in the winter is long period swells coming from far away, making the interval or distance between each wave/swell long. These swell intervals offshore can get up to 20 seconds apart, so when that happens, it’s a real gradual up-and-down effect. Like little hills that the boat goes up for a while, then down for a while. It’s actually pretty cool to experience that open-water energy. It’s very unlike the wind swells that we get from local trade winds that have a short fetch and a 1-3 second interval. Those are the conditions we worry about more. A strong trade wind can definitely create some uncomfortable, breaking waves. When this happens, we will be sure to let you know of these conditions so that you can re-schedule or decide to push forward or not. The goal here is to have a great time! Please visit our website to see a bunch of great photos and book through our online calendar.

If you have any more questions about fishing or would like general information that may help out your vacation here in Hawaii,  please don’t hesitate to reach out through an email or call me at (808)365-2520. Aloha, Jared.

Top 3 Reasons You Need to Go Deep Sea Fishing on Oahu

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Oahu’s north shore is world-renowned for its beautiful sandy beaches, big waves, and stunning scenery. But did you know it’s also home to some of the best deep-sea fishing in Hawaii? The deep sea fishing pros at Flyer Sportfishing know that whether you’re an experienced angler or you’ve never cast a line in your life, an Oahu deep sea fishing charter is an experience you won’t soon forget. Here are the top three reasons you need to go deep sea fishing off Oahu’s north shore.

First graphic representing Oahu fishing season in Hawaii. January fishing is popular among anglers on the north shore.The Year-Round Fishing Season on Hawaii’s North Shore

Many people believe that the only time to fish is in the spring and summer. However, those in the know realize that the Hawaii fishing season is year-round! That’s right, no matter what time of year it is, you can always find something biting here in paradise. In fact, master anglers come in droves to the Hawaii January fishing season. So, whether you’re a tourist looking for a unique activity to do on your vacation or an avid angler looking for new challenges, Oahu’s north shore is the place for you. Let’s take a look at what makes the Hawaiian fishing season so special.

Hawaii’s Perfect Climate

One of the reasons why Hawaii has such great year-round fishing is because of its climate. Unlike many other places in the world, Hawaii enjoys warm weather all year long. This means that even during the winter months, when many other parts of the country are covered in snow and ice, Hawaii is still relatively warm and sunny. And this consistent warm weather is perfect for fish! Many species of pacific fish including mahi-mahi and wahoo (ono) thrive in tropical waters, so Hawaii’s north shore climate provides them with the perfect environment to flourish. As a result, there are always fish biting here in paradise.

An Abundance of Pacific Fish Species

Not only does the north shore have great weather for fishing all year round, but it also has an abundance of Hawaiian fish species. In fact, there are over 400 different species of fish that can be found in Hawaiian waters! This includes everything from skipjack tuna (aku) to massive pelagic predators such as yellowfin tuna (ahi) and blue marlin. No matter what type of Hawaii fish you’re looking to catch, you’re sure to find it here off Oahu’s coast. And with so many different species swimming around, you’re sure to have a different fishing experience every time you go out!

Oahu Sportfishing Tournaments

Another reason why the fishing season on Oahu is so great is that there are tournaments happening all year round. Whether you’re looking to compete for prize money or just want bragging rights among your friends back home, these tournaments provide a great way to test your skills against some of the best anglers in the world. And with Oahu sportfishing tournaments happening all year long, you’ll never have to wait long for your next chance to compete!

Deep sea fishing charter, Oahu. Sportfishing charters near Haleiwa, Hawaii.

Second graphic for the experienced fishing boat crews of Oahu's north shore. Book a charter with the Hawaii fishing experts for the ultimate sportfishing experience.The Experienced Oahu Fishing Charter Crews on the North Shore

When it comes to fishing charters on Oahu, there is no better sportfishing crew than the experienced teams on the North Shore. From novice anglers to experienced fishermen, these expert fishing boat crews will provide you with an unforgettable experience. Casting off from Haleiwa Boat Harbor, you’ll be transported to some of the best fishing spots in Hawaii. Here’s what you can expect when you book a north shore deep sea fishing charter with one of these top-rated fishing crews.

Expertise and Safety First

When it comes to booking a Hawaii fishing charter, you want to make sure you’re in good hands. The Flyer Sportfishing crew on the North Shore has years of experience and is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all passengers. They know the waters like the back of their hand and will be able to get you to the best spot for an incredible day of fishing. Not only that, but they’ll also teach you about the different types of fish in Hawaii and how to properly reel them in. No matter your skill level, you’ll feel like a pro by the end of your trip!

A Relaxing Day Out

Fishing can be a stressful activity, but not when you’re on a deep-sea charter with one of these north shore fishing crews. They’ll do all the preparatory work while you sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery. If you want to take a break from fishing, feel free to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters or grab a snack from the cooler onboard. These charters are all about giving you an enjoyable day out on the water – no stress allowed!

An Unforgettable Experience

Above all else, these crews want you to have an amazing time while on your Oahu fishing charter. They’ll go above and beyond to make sure that happens. From start to finish, they’ll make sure your needs are met and that you’re having fun. At the end of your trip, you’ll be left with memories (and maybe even some fish!) that will last a lifetime.

North Shore Ahi charter group taking a photo with their catch. Oahu deep-sea fishing charter, north shore.

Third graphic for the Haleiwa harbor. Deep sea fishing, north shore, Oahu. The Beautiful Scenery & Culture at Historic Haleiwa Harbor

Haleiwa Harbor is one of the most beautiful and underrated spots on the island of Oahu. Located on the North Shore, Haleiwa Harbor is a haven for tourists and locals alike. Whether you’re looking to catch a glimpse of Hawai’i’s stunning scenery or to get away from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu, Haleiwa Harbor is the perfect place for you. Here are three reasons why you should visit Haleiwa on your next Hawaiian vacation.

Haleiwa Harbor’s Unparalleled Scenery

If you’re looking for breathtaking scenery, look no further than Haleiwa Harbor. From the azure blue waters of the harbor to the lush green mountains that provide a picturesque backdrop, there’s nowhere else quite like it. And don’t forget about the famous North Shore surf break! No matter what time of year you visit, there’s always something to see at Haleiwa Harbor.

Rich in Culture and History

Haleiwa Harbor is more than just a pretty face—it’s also rich in culture and history. For centuries, Hawaiian royalty made their home on the shores of Haleiwa. Today, you can still see remnants of this royal past in the form of ancient temples and petroglyphs dotting the landscape. If you want to learn more about Hawai’ian culture and history, there’s no better place to start than in north shore’s Haleiwa.

There’s Something for Everyone

Whether you’re a tourist or a local, an angler or a hiker, the Oahu town of Haleiwa has something for everyone. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, from north shore charter fishing boats and stand-up paddle boarding to hiking trails and picnicking spots. And when you’re ready to relax, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes lining the harbor where you can enjoy a delicious meal while taking in stunning views of the water.

Ariel image of Haleiwa boat harbor. Best deep sea fishing boat charters, Oahu, North Shore.

Book Your Next Oahu Deep Sea Fishing Trip with Flyer Sportfishing

When it comes to fishing on Oahu, there’s no better way to experience all the island has to offer than by booking a charter with Flyer Sportfishing. From the moment you step aboard one of their Haleiwa fishing boats, you’ll be treated to unbeatable service, stunning scenery, and an unforgettable day out on the water. Whether you’re a novice angler or a seasoned pro, Flyer Sportfishing will make sure your needs are met and that you have an amazing time. So what are you waiting for? Book your charter today and get ready for the Oahu fishing trip of a lifetime!

Don’t Skip This North Shore Deep Sea Fishing Paradise

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Sharks near deep sea fishing boat charter off the north shore of Oahu, HIOahu is the most frequently visited Hawaiian island, with a yearly influx of over five million visitors from all over the world. But don’t think it’s an overrated tourist trap. Far from it: despite its popularity, Oahu has lost none of its authentic spirit and unique charm. As long-time Oahu locals, the team at Flyer Sportfishing can attest to the beautiful beaches, historic sites, and adventurous sports that the island has to offer. Read on to learn why you won’t regret booking a North Shore fishing charter as part of your vacation to this island paradise right now.

Culture and History

Oahu is rich with historical sites that span the island’s rich past. The Iolani Palace encompasses a wide swath of Oahu history. Not only does the palace’s history begin over 200 years ago as the residence of the Kamehameha Dynasty, but it is currently the residence of the island’s monarchs, the only house of royalty in the United States. Make your way through history by visiting the Chinatown district and Bishop Museum, and pay your respects at the Pearl Harbor Historic Site and USS Arizona Memorial.

Nightlife, Shopping, and Leisure

Waikiki is Oahu’s luxurious leisure district, with sugar-white beaches and world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment. Despite its popularity, Waikiki has never lost its appeal as the ultimate tropical playground. Oahu is also home to Kailua and Lanikai Beaches, renowned as some of the most beautiful beachfront in the world.

Oahu Sportfishing and Surfing

Types of fish that can be caught in Hawaii. Oahu fishing charters North Shore.No trip to Oahu is complete without a visit to its North Shore. Once you get your fill of Hawaiian history, dining, entertainment, and boutique shopping, it’s time for adventure. The North Shore of Oahu is famous for being the home of some of the most exciting surfing and sportfishing charters in the world. The towering waves off the coast draw droves of surfers to competitions each year. Oahu’s North Shore waters are also well-known for their ideal sportfish conditions for catching hauls like Pacific blue marlin. The temperate weather and extremely deep water close to shore mean sport fishers have a greater chance of catching that prize fish than anywhere else.

An experienced fishing charter captain can give you an unforgettable, hands-on Hawaii fishing experience off the North Shore of Oahu. Call Flyer Sportfishing to learn more about how you can get the most out of your Oahu visit.

North Shore Fishing Vacation Tips

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North Shore charter group taking a photo with their catch during a sportfishing trip.The most precious vacation souvenirs of all aren’t trinkets or even trophy fish: They’re the memories you make, whether relaxing on the beach with loved ones or reeling in a huge blue marlin. At Flyer Sportfishing, we want you to bring home your best vacation memories yet, so we’ve put together a few tips for making the most of your vacation.

Bring Your Camera (Plus Some Extras)

Bring a high-quality camera, if you can, to capture shots of deep-sea fishing in action, humpback whale sightings, incredible sunrises or sunsets, and your loved ones’ smiling faces. But you don’t have to shell out for the fancy equipment with zoom lenses and filters: A moderately priced digital point-and-shoot will function just as well, as long as you bring extra batteries and a memory card. Even your phone is capable of taking quality photos. Just make sure that you waterproof your equipment in case of sprays.

Choose Your North Shore Oahu Fishing Charter Wisely

While there are affordable sportfishing charter companies in Oahu, it’s still an investment to book one. You want to get the most out of the time and money you spend, so don’t choose a company without doing some research first. Signs that you’ll be spending your money wisely include the option of a hands-on experience, enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff, and the offer of a share of the day’s catch.

Explore the North Shore

Oahu fishing charter, North Shore vacationers holding up an octopus.

Oahu fishing charters aren’t the only thing that the North Shore is known for. The beaches alone in this tranquil part of Oahu are worth the trip. As glamorous as it is peaceful, the North Shore also has plenty in the way of shopping and dining. We encourage you to make time to explore this slice of heaven—immersing yourself in the local environment will make your vacation memories even more vivid.

…Now, Put Down the Camera (and Phone)

In our social media-saturated age, it’s tempting to document every waking moment of your vacation on a screen so that you can post, share and let the likes roll in. But if you indulge too much time on your camera or phone, posting your photos to Facebook and Instagram, you might find yourself scrolling through your feed later and saying, “Funny, I don’t remember that!” Use your camera to snap a few keepsake photos, but your memories of your vacation should consist mostly of exploring the North Shore, enjoying your Oahu sportfishing charter, and spending time with your family and friends.

If you’re ready to make some memories, contact Flyer Sportfishing today to learn more about our deep sea fishing charters in Oahu.

Hawaii Stripe Marlin Charters

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striped marlin at Haleiwa Harbor on Oahu. This marlin was caught during a sportfishing charter aboard the "Flyer".Stripe Marlin near Oahu usually shows up during our winter months. November through April. Our Oahu sportfishing charters typically catch them in the blind, meaning no birds indicating where the fish are at. Just trolling near north shore and all of a sudden, there they are! Singles or packs of up to four or five at a time is not uncommon. They are typically in the range of 40 to 100 pounds. They are the most aggressive of the Marlin species we have and will keep attacking and attacking and swatting and swatting at the lure until they are hooked or they just wear themselves out. Very exciting!
Because of their aggressiveness, we often will have a pitch bait ready and when they do show up we can pitch a live mackerel at them while reeking the lure away from them and get a much better hook up ratio that way and also hook them on a rod that’s more suited to their size which makes it really fun to catch.  That’s bait and switch. Striped marlin caught in Hawaii is also very tasty to eat. One of our favourites for sashimi and grilling. Like their cousin, the Blue Marlin they jump around a lot to try and get rid of what is irritating them.

Hawaii’s Best Mahi Mahi Charter

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Mahi Mahi charter showing off their catch at the dock in Haleiwa, HI.Mahi-mahi, the fish so nice they had to name it twice! What is not to like about catching mahi-mahi in Hawaii. They are super aggressive, colorful, acrobatic, and fight really hard using every truck in the book! The Hawaii state record currently is at 82 pounds and my personal largest is 62 pounds. They average in the 8 to 30-pound range. We catch them year-round but they are most commonly caught during our fall and spring months. But like I said you can catch them on an Oahu fishing charter year-round especially if you find debris,  like a log or a discarded cargo net floating out in the ocean that has been there a while which creates a food chain and structure that Hawaii Mahi Mahi love. Finding that with a live well full of Opelu(mackerel) is, game on! That’s when we bust out the stand-up rods, bring in the lures, and pitch live or deadbeat until your arms hurt! It’s a really good time. Not uncommon to catch 20 to 40 fish when you find the right thing.

Mahi Mahi caught during a north shore sportfishing charter.Oahu Mahi Mahi lives up to their name which means strong and uses their body to fight you. Always going side to side on the surface using their big flat body to resist the pull of the rod. They are unmistakable fish with their bright blue/purple color on the bite with their yellow-green spotted bodies. Gender identity is super easy too with the bulls having that really flat face and square forehead while the cows head slope back gradually. I’ll never forget the first time seeing them and just thought how amazing and prehistoric looking. Mahi Mahi is also one of my favorite fish to cook very nice white, delicate, moist meat. Mild in flavor,  great for ceviche, grilled, pan-fried, tacos. Always a crowd-pleaser! What is not to love about them? Probably one of the most popular fish to have mounted as well with all the colors and make a great addition to any home or office!  Mahi live up to only  3 years growing 2 pounds a month. Females always have eggs in them and are found in oceans worldwide.

North Shore Ahi Fishing Fever

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Fishermen showing off their Ahi tuna catch at the Haleiwa docks after one of our Oahu fishing charters.Yellowfin tuna also known as Ahi is the local fish of choice to catch. For hundreds of years, they’ve always been a rich source of protein for Hawaiians. In the past, Hawaii yellowfin tuna were caught from ancient canoes.  The traditional technique of catching Ahi involved using circle hooks made of bone and rock using woven rope hand lines. As the fish pulls, the hand lines burn through their hands and it felt like fire.  The burning sensation is what gave the yellowfin tuna its Hawaiian name of Ahi, translated as fire. Ahi sportfishing is still a favorite local pastime and when that time of year comes around when the big ones show up, people around here get the Ahi fever. All of a sudden people are calling in sick to work as boats on trailers go missing from driveways!

North Shore yellowfin tuna sportfishing of the coast of Oahu.Every summer season I tend to get the Oahu Ahi fishing fever too. Generally, it will be in areas without much intense bird indication. We’ll troll these areas with lures and wait for the holes in the ocean where our lures just were. Super exciting, explosive bites out of nowhere. Single, double, triple, and even the five-banger bite of tuna over 100 pounds! May June July August is our most productive month for these size tuna but are caught year-round as well on our FAD buoys that the state places around all of the islands for fisherman. Fish agronomic devices are generally anchored in 1000 fathoms of water one fathom being 6 feet that’s some pretty deep water. These FADs create a structure at locations that these pelagic tuna travel. Generally, the fish on the FADs are smaller school size of fish ranging in the juvenile, 3-pound size all the way up to adult-sized 70-pound fish.

Large Ahi caught onboard the Flyer fishing charter boat.During the summer months that the big tuna show up, our Hawaii sportfishing charters catch them in the blind or in bird piles that usually range from 90 to 250 pounds each. Nothing like trolling along with the lures out half asleep, wondering what you’re doing and all of a sudden lines start snapping out of the outriggers and lines start screaming off the 130 size reels!  0-60 in an instant!  What a rush as your adrenaline level spikes through the roof!  Once that happens you’ll understand why we do this every day and why we have this addiction. Ahi tuna known for its delicious red oily meat is great for sashimi and local favorite, poke, a raw fish salad made with soy sauce, onion, sesame oil is a home favorite all around the islands. I feel like Hawaii is underestimated as being a top destination to catch these fish. I’ve had days of catching 10 of these Ahi fish over 150 pounds and basically had to stop fishing early because my anglers couldn’t reel another fish in. Super exciting when these fish turn on and start biting, to say the least.  They definitely make for some of my best memories on the ocean, creating bonds and friendships that I cherish to this day. Contact us today to find out more about our Oahu fishing charters.

Oahu Blue Marlin Sportfishing

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Blue Marlin breaching the surface of the pacific ocean off the coast of Oahu's North Shore during a fishing charter.Blue Marlin is the best of the big game sportfish in the world by far. Pacific Blue Marlin are known to grow in excess of 1000 pounds and are caught year-round in Hawaii. There has been a grander size Oahu blue marlin caught every month of the year here in Hawaii. Oahu’s North Shore is the only place in the world I’ve seen blue Marlin school during our fall months, September and October. It doesn’t happen every year but when it does, it is the most exciting thing in the world. During our north shore fishing charters, we have had three on at a time jumping and going ballistic all over the ocean. Usually, there are some big females around and packs of males in the 150 to 250-pound class. The rest of the year our Oahu sportfishing tours have the opportunity to catch them all throughout. When the big yellowfin tuna show up there are also some big Marlin in the area as well that feed on them in May, June, and July.

 

Image of the largest marlin ever caught by sport fishermen Oahu, HI.The world’s largest marlin ever caught in the world on rod and reel was a blue marlin caught here on Oahu in 1971 which weighed in at 1805 pounds and miraculously caught in a half-hour as she choked on the 100-pound tuna that was eaten prior to the lure she ate that became her demise! We typically see a handful of Blue Marlin over 500 pounds in a year and then our average size I would say would be in the 150 to 200-pound size. They are primarily solitary fish that our blue marlin charters catch mainly by trolling artificial lures, which is nice because whenever you have lures in the water, you have a chance of a World record size beast! Sometimes we find an area where they are more concentrated and switch to live bait, using mackerel or tuna.

 

Fisherman on a Hawaii fishing tour attempting to catch a blue marlin.Marlin bites are super exciting as you’re watching the lures that are popping on the surface you’ll see them come up from the inside typically and stock the lure. Time stops as you wait for the attack, snapping the line out of the outrigger as all hell breaks loose! Once they feel the hook penetrate their mouth that is when you see them going absolutely nuts jumping all over the surface trying to shake that irritant-free as they tear the ocean apart! 20-40 minutes is the typical fight time with 4-1/2 hours being the longest battle I’ve been a part of. That one was 620 lbs and got tail wrapped and died. We had to get that one inch by inch from a few hundred yards down. The biggest I’ve caught was 1015 pounds which took an hour and a half! I’ve seen and lost bigger ones. One in particular still haunts me to this day…

Reeling in Oahu Aku Tuna

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Fisherman on the Haleiwa Harbor fishing vessel the Flyer, reeling in a fish off the coast of Oahu.Skipjack tuna, also known as Aku is the hardest fighting fish in the ocean pound for pound. Ranging in size from 5 to 30 pounds these fish will fight until they tear off their face! It’s ridiculous.  We often find them in big schools with hundreds of birds indicating their presence. Not uncommon to catch five at a time and you’ll be glad after the first few that they don’t get bigger than 30 pounds! These football-shaped tunas are pure muscle, blue / silver in color with horizontal black stripes on their side. These fish are caught year-round on skipjack charters in Hawaii,  with our summer months being the best time to find the schools of the larger-sized ones. Unfortunately for the Aku, they are also a favorite food of blue marlin near Oahu so while targeting them you never know what’s gonna bite!

Skipjack tuna, Ahi on the deck of the Flyer Oahu fishing vessel. The aku is displayed with bait and lures.Our Oahu Aku charters find this fish in shallow coastal waters of the north shore all the way out to 50 miles in waters over 2 miles deep. Hawaii skipjack tuna also congregate around our state FAD ( fish agronomic device ) buoys and make it really fun to get our little anglers hooked up on the smaller stand-up rods. When they’re biting well our boat captains can predictably catch them on every pass during our which is super fun! Our state FADs range from 8 to 18 miles from the harbor. They can be reached on half days but I strongly suggest booking a full-day fishing charter to really get your time in. Some argue that their dark, translucent, red meat is better tasting than the Ahi tuna which are more favored in restaurants because of their milder taste. Aku tends to be a little more oily with a shorter shelf life. Super tasty as sashimi and poke salad!