Near Shore Fishing Charter

About the Tour

Join us for a 3-hour near-shore fishing adventure along Hilo’s scenic coastline. Our crew focuses on productive fishing areas close to land along the Hamakua Coast and reef edges near Hilo Bay. These locations allow us to stay relatively near shore while still targeting a variety of reef and coastal species.

This trip is ideal for families, first-time anglers, and anyone who wants to experience fishing in Hawai‘i without traveling far offshore. Fish with quality gear, enjoy views of lush rainforest slopes and volcanic cliffs, and learn about sustainable fishing practices from our experienced crew.

Note: This trip takes place on the open ocean outside the Hilo breakwall. Even in near-shore waters you may experience wind, swell, and 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 sea cliffs, reef structures, and pockets of productive fishing water along the Hamakua Coast.
• 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 while maintaining safe and 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 brings up a colorful mix of reef fish and strong fighters. Every day is different, but you might land any of these. Want the full rundown on a fish, how it fights and when it bites? Our Hilo Fish Species Guide has the details.

• Papio (Trevally / Juvenile Ulua)
• Omilu (Bluefin Trevally)
• Moi (Pacific Threadfin)
• Moana (Manybar Goatfish)
• Moana Kali (Blue Goatfish)
• Uku (Grey Snapper / Gray Jobfish)
• Kahala (Amberjack)
• Taʻape (Bluestripe Snapper)
• Toau (Blacktail Snapper)
• Roi (Peacock Grouper)
• Aʻawa (Hawaiian Hogfish)
• Nabeta (Razor Wrasse / Laenihi)
• Menpachi (Soldierfish)

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