Deep-Sea Fishing in Lanai

Some of the best sportfishing grounds in Maui County are off the southwest shoreline of Lanai. Pry your eyes open and go deep-sea fishing in the early morning, with departures at 6 or 6:30 AM from Manele Harbor. Console yourself with the knowledge that Maui fishers have to leave an hour earlier to get to the same prime locations. Peak seasons are spring and summer, although good catches have been landed year-round. Mahimahi, ono (a mackerel-like fish; the word means "delicious" in Hawaiian), ahituna, and marlin are prized catches and preferred eating.

Boats and Charters

Fish-N-Tips. This roomy 36-foot Twin-Vee with tuna tower will get you and your family to the fishing grounds in comfort, and Captain Jason will do everything except reel in the big one for you. Plan on trolling along the south coast for ono(a mackerel-like fish)and around the point at Kaunolu for mahimahi or marlin. A trip to the offshore buoy often yields skipjack tuna or big ahi(yellowfin tuna), and the captain and crew are always open to a bit of bottom fishing. Fishing gear, sodas, and water are included. A four-hour charter (six-passenger maximum) is $850; each additional hour costs $150. Guests can keep up to a third of all fish caught. Shared charters on Sunday are $200 per person. Book with the concierge at your resort or call directly. 808/565-7676.