Big Island fishing is known for its quality, especially when it comes to snagging huge blue marlin off the Kona Coast. Hailed as the marlin capital of the world, the Kona Coast also yields plenty of swordfish, ono, and mahi-mahi, among other species, which is part of the reason so many Big Island fishing charters base themselves in the Kona area. There are around 100 Big Island fishing charter operations to choose from, and you won't need to get a license to fish the waters here. Fishing on the Big Island can be enjoyed year-round, which is just one more reason to consider adding it to your vacation itinerary.

While shore fishing, stream fishing, and pier fishing can be enjoyed on a visit to the Big Island, it's deep sea fishing that entices anglers the most. The Honokohau Harbor near Kailua-Kona is the docking point for the majority of the Big Island fishing charter boats, so you'll do well to head there if you aim to make fishing one of the top activities on your Big Island vacation. Fishing charters can also be found in good numbers at the Kailua Bay Harbor, the Keauhou Harbor, and the Kawaihae Harbor, all of which are found on the Big Island's western coast. The relatively calm conditions of the waters off the western coast help make the fishing here so good, as is the case when it comes to Big Island scuba diving and snorkeling.

If you're interested in a Big Island deep sea fishing excursion, you can book your trip through your resort if you're staying at one. You can also contact a specific fishing charter company on your own, which is recommended for advanced anglers. Both half-day and full-day Island fishing excursions can be booked with ease, and you'll generally depart around 7 or 7:30 a.m., depending on your crew and the amount of time that you will spend at sea. More often than not, the fishing charter companies can make special arrangements when it comes to your trip, and you can often include other fun activities on the side, such as dolphin swims and snorkeling.

Big Island Map

While some Big Island fishing charter companies will supply food and drink, others will not, but all will provide you with the equipment that you need to catch fish. World-record catches have been recorded by anglers doing some Big Island deep sea fishing, and you could be next in line to claim top honors. Should you catch a marlin that weighs more than 1,000 pounds, which is known as a grander, your name and accomplishment will be honored on the Waterfront Row in Kailua-Kona. Hopefully, you'll get to bring some friends and family along for your Big Island deep sea fishing adventure, but if you're going it alone, you can always share a boat with other travelers for a modest fee.

Most of the fishing boats on the Big Island carry up to six passengers, and they feature a clean bathroom for guest use. The tagging and release of blue marlin is encouraged when it comes to fishing on the Big Island, though more often than not you can make special arrangements with the captain of your charter if you want to keep the fish you catch. Some fishing charter companies will even help you package your fish for the flight home or find someone to mount it for you. There's a lot to like about fishing on the Big Island, and a day spent out on the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean is always pleasant, even if you're unlucky enough not to catch any fish. Maybe you'll add a little whale watching to the mix during your fishing excursion, or perhaps you'll dedicate all of your time to making that next blue marlin record catch. It's up to you, and the friendly Big Island fishing charter companies are there to help you plan the perfect outing.