Near Shore Fishing Charter

About the Tour

Join us for a 3-hour near-shore fishing adventure along Hilo’s scenic coastline. Our crew keeps the boat in calmer waters close to land, which makes this trip ideal for families, first-time anglers, and anyone who wants a relaxed day on the ocean. Fish with quality gear, enjoy views of Hilo Bay and the surrounding cliffs, and learn about sustainable fishing practices from our experienced crew.

Note: You may experience ocean spray, so please be prepared to get a little wet.

Where We Fish

Depending on weather and ocean conditions, we typically fish one of two main areas along Hilo’s coastline:

• North toward Onomea Bay – Dramatic cliffs, reef structures, and pockets of calmer water. This area often holds a variety of reef species.
• Reef edges near Hilo Bay – Rocky points and drop-offs where fish congregate, especially during tide changes.

The captain selects the best location shortly before departure so that you have the greatest chance of finding fish in safe, comfortable conditions.

What You Will Experience

• Hands-on instruction for beginners. Our crew shows you how to use the equipment, bait the line, and fight your fish.
• Use of high-quality spinning gear, including Penn Battle IV 8000 reels, matched with rods suited for near-shore reef fishing.
• Beautiful views of Hilo Bay, lush rainforest slopes, and open ocean horizons while you fish.
• A relaxed, family-friendly environment where you can ask questions, learn, and enjoy time on the water.
• Focus on sustainable fishing with our guiding principle: “Eat only what you catch, catch only what you eat.”

What You Might Catch

Near-shore reef fishing around Hilo offers a mix of colorful reef fish and strong fighting species. While every day is different, you may encounter:

• Wrasse (Hinalea) – Brightly colored reef fish that are common along rocky areas.
• Goatfish (Weke) – Often seen feeding along sandy bottoms near the reef.
• Trevally (Papio and small Ulua) – Hard-fighting predators that sometimes cruise through near-shore waters.
• Snapper species such as Menpachi, Aweoweo, or Taape.
• Flagtail (Aholehole) and other schooling reef fish.
• Occasional small Amberjack and other passing pelagic species, depending on conditions.

We follow current Hawaiʻi regulations for size and bag limits. Not all species or sizes may be kept, and our crew will let you know what can come home with you.

Meeting Location

All fishing trips depart from our slip at Wailoa Harbor in Hilo. There is free parking nearby. Directions will be provided in your confirmation email. Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time so your captain can check you in, complete a safety briefing, and help you get comfortable with the boat and gear.

Important Information

• Sea sickness medication is strongly recommended. Even in near-shore waters, the ocean can be bumpy and this is a multi-hour trip on a boat.
• This tour is generally suitable for ages 5 and up. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
• All fishing gear, bait, and required safety equipment are provided.
• Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are included. You are welcome to bring additional food if you would like.
• Guests may keep legal fish within sustainable limits. Our crew will advise you on what is recommended to harvest and what is better released.

Fishing License Requirements

To fish in the ocean, non-Hawaii residents age 15 and older are required to have a Nonresident Recreational Marine Fishing License. Active duty military members and their families are exempt. Please contact us if you have any questions.

What to Bring

• Reef-safe sunscreen and sunglasses
• Hat or other sun protection
• Reusable water bottle
• Light jacket or layers, as weather can change quickly
• Sack lunch or snacks (optional, in addition to what we provide)
• Motion-sickness medication, taken in advance if you are prone to seasickness
• Camera or phone, with a waterproof case or dry bag recommended