Deep-Sea Fishing in Big Island

Along the Kona Coast you can find some of the world's most exciting "blue-water" fishing. Although July, August, and September are peak months, with the best fishing and a number of tournaments, charter fishing goes on year-round. You don't have to compete to experience the thrill of landing a Pacific blue marlin or other big-game fish. More than 60 charter boats, averaging 26 to 58 feet, are available for hire, most of them out of Honokohau Harbor, north of Kailua-Kona.

For an exclusive charter, prices generally range from $350 to $700 for a half-day trip (about four hours) and $600 to $950 for a full day at sea (about eight hours). For share charters, rates range from $100 to $140 per person for a half-day and $200 for a full day. If fuel prices continue increasing, expect charter costs to rise. Most boats are licensed to take up to six passengers, in addition to the crew. Tackle, bait, and ice are furnished, but you'll usually have to bring your own lunch. You won't be able to keep your catch, although if you ask, many captains will send you home with a few fillets.

Big fish are weighed in daily at Honokohau Harbor's Fuel Dock. Show up at 11 AM to watch the weigh-in of the day's catch from the morning charters, or 3:30 PM for the afternoon charters. If you're lucky, you'll get to see a "grander" weighing in at 1,000-plus pounds. A surprising number of these are caught just outside Kona Harbor. On Kona's Waterfront Row look for the "Grander's Wall" of anglers with their prizes.

Big Island, Big Fish

Along the Kona Coast, deep-sea fishermen pursue several species of game fish. The most sought after is, of course, the Pacific blue marlin, averaging 300 to 400 pounds, though "granders" of 1,000 pounds and up are not unusual. Mid-size catches include the striped marlin (averaging 150 pounds), the black marlin (around 200 pounds), and the broadbill swordfish (up to 250 pounds). The much sought after ahi (yellowfin tuna) can range up to 300 pounds. The smaller guys, weighing in from about 20 to 50 pounds, include spearfish, sailfish, aku (skipjack tuna), ono (wahoo), and the prized mahimahi (dolphin fish).

Boats & Charters

Before you sign up with anyone, think about the kind of trip you want. Looking for a romantic cruise? A rockin' good time with your buddies? Serious fishing in one of the "secret spots"? A family-friendly excursion? Be sure to describe your expectations so your booking agent can match you with a captain and a boat that suits your style.

Charter Locker. This company can provide information on various charter boat fishing trips and make all the arrangements—they can even book you on the luxurious Blue Hawaii , which has air-conditioned staterooms for overnight trips. 74-425 Kealakehe Pkwy., Honokohau Harbor, Kailua-Kona. 808/326-2553. www.charterlocker.com.

Charter Services Hawaii. This booking service represents several Kona fishing boats and can assist with all the details in arranging a charter. Box 5234, Kailua-Kona, 96745. 808/334-1881 or 800/567-2650. www.konazone.com.

Honokohau Harbor Charter Desk. With 50 boats on the books, this place can take care of almost anyone. You can make arrangements through your hotel activity desk, but we suggest you go down to the desk at the harbor and look things over for yourself. 74-381 Kealakehe Pkwy., Kailua-Kona. 808/329-5735 or 888/566-2487. www.charterdesk.com.

Humdinger Sportfishing. This game fisher guide has more than three decades of fishing experience in Kona waters. The experienced crew are marlin specialists. The 37-foot Humdinger has the latest in electronics and top line rods and reels. Half-day exclusive charters begin at $550, full-day exclusives at $850. 808/936-3034 or 800/926-2374. www.humdinger-online.com.

Illusions Sportfishing. Captain Tim Hicks is one of Kona's top fishing tourney producers with several years' experience. The 39-foot Illusions is fully equipped with galley, restrooms, an air-conditioned cabin, plus the latest in fishing equipment. Half-day exclusive charters begin at $550, full-day exclusives at $800. 808/883-0180; 808/960-7371 (cell); 800/482-3474. www.illusionssportfishing.com.

Kona Charter Skippers Association. In business since 1956, this company can help arrange half-day and full-day exclusive or share charters on several boats. The Pamela is their featured boat. Box 806, 74-857 Iwalani Pl., Kailua-Kona. 808/329-3600 or 800/762-7546. www.konabiggamefishing.com.

Pamela Big Game Fishing. This family-operated company has been in the business since 1967. The 38-foot Pamela is captained by either Peter Hoogs or his son. They've also got an informative Web site with information on sportfishing. Half-day exclusive charters begin at $600, full-day exclusives at $950. 808/329-3600 or 800/762-7546. www.konabiggamefishing.com.