Kauai goes under the radar as a top fishing destination. But that just means more open water and less competition for adventurous anglers! Deep sea fishing in Kauai is spectacular, with charters landing monster Marlin all year round. Plus, the Tuna bite is absolutely out of this world. Cast a line here and you’ll have mile after mile of deep water all to yourself.
This island really knows how to deliver on the “deep” in deep sea fishing. The sea floor drops 1,000 feet just a couple of miles from shore, with waters as deep as 10,000 feet down within an hour’s cruise. This means you can battle some of the biggest pelagic predators on the planet and still be back for lunch!
In this guide, we’ll explore the top target species, effective techniques, best fishing spots, and important regulations for deep sea fishing in Kauai. Sit down, relax, and take notes before you hit the waters!
Top Deep Sea Fishing Catches in Kauai
It’s no secret that Kauai boasts an incredible fishing menu. Located in the heart of the Pacific, the island sits in the middle of the migration patterns of many prized fish species. You can hook into Mahi Mahi, Trevally, Tuna, Wahoo, and a variety of Billfish whenever you visit. Yes, Kauai’s bluewater bite is excellent all year round!
Mahi Mahi
The first fish on our list is actually known all over the world by its Hawaiian name. Of course, Mahi Mahi is the absolute superstar of Kauai’s deep sea fishing scene! Gold, green, silver, and blue, Mahi Mahi put on a colorful show with their acrobatic leaps and incredible strength. Plus, these fish are delicious.
These popular deep sea targets typically weigh between 10 and 60 pounds. You can find them just about anywhere, and they bite well throughout the year. However, Mahi Mahi practically jump onto your boat in spring and fall, when their numbers peak. Trolling is the best way to get their attention, and they’re known for hitting hard and putting up a spectacular fight.
Marlin
Blue Marlin are the giants of Kauai’s deep sea fishing world. Often weighing between 150 and 500 pounds, these leviathans can even exceed half a ton! The thrill and excitement Marlin generate are unparalleled, promising to leap out of the water and thrash around in an attempt to get off your line.
These majestic and powerful fish are most commonly found in Hawaii’s waters from summer through late fall. Blue Marlin are elegant yet unpredictable, and they share the waters with some other impressive Billfish. While trolling for Blues, you might also come across Striped Marlin, Shortnosed Spearfish, Sailfish, and Swordfish.
Yellowfin Tuna
Yellowfin Tuna – or Ahi, as the locals call them – are another of Kauai’s powerhouse predators. These golden-blue missiles deliver an explosive burst of speed throughout the fight. Hawaii’s warm tropical waters infuse Ahi with exceptional energy, helping them grow to over 270 pounds. Get ready for a serious battle when you hook one of these brutes!
Arriving from the west, Yellowfin Tuna roll into the Tuna basin just 2 miles out from Port Allen Harbor. While their peak season is during the summer, winter runs are also common. Their raw power and tenacity make every catch a thrilling battle. And their culinary value… Well, you’re surely well aware of that!
Skipjack Tuna
Known locally as Aku, Skipjack Tuna are smaller members of Kauai’s Tuna family but they’re no less fierce. These sleek, fast-moving fish are pursued by just about everything in the sea. Ranging from 4 to 40 pounds, Skipjack Tuna pack a serious punch and are often mistaken for much larger fish when hooked due to their spirited fight.
These fish are highly prized for their feisty nature and the excitement they bring to anglers. They’re abundant in both shallow and deep waters. You can try your hand at bottom fishing, casting, or trolling along the coastal waters to catch Aku. But more on that later!
Wahoo
The last fish we’ll focus on is another strong and speedy creature. Stalking the ledge just half a mile from the harbor and around Niihau, Wahoo – or Ono, as they’re known in Hawaii – promise to run away with your bait at speed and threaten your lines with their razor-sharp teeth. Get ready to scream “Ohh-No!” when you feel your tangle struggling but “Ohh-Yea!” when the fish hits the deck.
Ono means “delicious” and these fish are true to their name, as they’re as tasty as they are thrilling to catch. Wahoo can swim upwards of 50 miles an hour, which makes them one of the fastest fish in the ocean. When they’re biting, it’s possible to get 10 to 20 strikes on a 4-hour trip, although bringing one aboard is a different story altogether.
How can I go deep sea fishing in Kauai?
A Kauai deep sea fishing trip promises excitement and new experiences, but proper preparation is key to making the most of it. Whether you’re an avid angler or a curious newbie, having a local guide by your side is essential. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a head start. Let’s get a little technical…
Deep Sea Trolling
Kauai deep sea charters primarily focus on trolling to bring in the biggest fish. This technique is highly effective for targeting pelagic species such as Marlin, Tuna, Wahoo, and Mahi Mahi. Captains may choose to use spreads with colorful teasers and multiple lures at different depths, or they may keep it simple with just a few lures.
The gear used for trolling in Kauai is built to handle the raw power and speed of the fish you’ll be targeting. Heavy-duty rods and reels, typically spooled with 80–130 lb test lines, are essential. Outriggers help spread the lines wide to prevent tangles, while downriggers may be used to get baits to the right depths.
Prime trolling grounds around Kauai include the waters near Ni’ihau, the drop-offs along the southwest coast, and the nutrient-rich areas near the Nā Pali Coast. Fishing around Fish Aggregation Devices (FADs) and natural flotsam increases the chances of landing a prized fish.
Light Tackle Deep Sea Fishing
For anglers seeking the thrill of both small and big game, light tackle deep sea fishing in Kauai offers an unmatched experience. Locals often use equipment like Shimano tackle and Van Staal reels to target Aku, Ahi, Ono, and Pacific Blue Marlin. This kind of fishing is a mix of skill and finesse, whether you’re fighting a small Aku or a powerful Marlin. The agility of light tackle setups makes it possible to adapt quickly to different fishing conditions and target species.
Bottom Fishing
Bottom fishing in Kauai’s deep waters is perfect for anglers seeking to hook large, powerful fish from the depths. Unlike shallow water fishing, deep sea bottom fishing will see you target species such as Snapper, Grouper, and Amberjack that dwell near underwater structures and reefs. This method involves dropping bait to the ocean floor and requires a quick retrieval to avoid losing the catch to lurking predators.
You’ll need heavy-duty rods and reels, typically equipped with braided lines for added strength and sensitivity. The setup often includes large weights to ensure the bait reaches the ocean floor quickly and stays there despite strong currents. Circle hooks are common as they increase the chances of a secure hook-up. Be careful, though: bottom fishing in Kauai is pretty addictive!
FAD Fishing
Kauai is surrounded by the vast open ocean, so locating fish might seem challenging. However, the island is strategically surrounded by FADs, which draw in fish from miles around. These ensure reliable topwater action for Marlin, Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, and even Sharks.
The FADs function by creating mini-ecosystems that attract bait fish, which in turn attract larger predatory fish. The state of Hawaii is responsible for maintaining these buoys that enhance angling opportunities and support the local marine biodiversity. While FADs can hold fish year-round, fall is typically the best season to hit them up.
Kauai Deep Sea Fishing Seasons
Speaking of seasons, there’s no bad time to go deep sea fishing Kauai-style. Spring is about larger tackle as bigger fish start showing up with the warming waters. This season often kicks off an early Marlin run, before Mahi Mahi and Striped Marlin begin their migration to spawn. This is also Kauai’s wet season, but the fish don’t mind the rain.
Summer is arguably the best time for deep sea fishing around Kauai. Constant trade winds and sunny weather make for excellent fishing conditions. From May to September, Ahi, Ono, and Blue Marlin are in full force, before you shift to lighter tackle in fall. This season marks the peak activity around FADs, while the remnants of big Yellowfin Tuna are still around.
Winter in Kauai is characterized by the arrival of whale season and a shift in fishing focus to nearshore waters. The big low-pressure systems from Japan and Alaska calm the trade winds, creating ideal conditions on the east and southeast of the island. While pelagic fishing can be slower, this season still offers chances to catch some of the largest Tuna and Marlin around the holidays.
Where is the best deep sea fishing in Kauai?
Kauai is a true vacation destination, treasured for its lush tropical jungles and white sand beaches. Naturally, Kauai has some of the best fishing grounds around the globe, especially off the coast of Kapa’a on the east side. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top spots…
Top Kauai Deep Sea Fishing Spots
- Southwest Kauai. This side of the island is sheltered from the constant northeast trade winds, providing calmer conditions. The ledges are just 1 mile out, and the FADs and 1,000-fathom line is just 3.5 miles away. You can even run 20 miles to the 2,000-fathom drop.
- Nā Pali Coast. This gorgeous coast is a fantastic family outing spot, offering fishing on the inside for Ono, Trevally, and Barracuda. This scenic area provides both excellent fishing and breathtaking views.
- Ni’ihau. Also known as “Forbidden Island,” this spot is home to Bluefin, Yellowfin, Ono, Mahimahi, Marlin, and various species of Sharks.
- East Kauai (Kapa’a). The east of the island boasts some of the best fishing grounds around. The proximity to deep waters means anglers can start fishing within minutes of leaving the harbor.
- Nawiliwili Harbor. This is an ideal starting point for deep-sea fishing excursions. With easy access to prime fishing grounds and FADs, anglers have no choice but to reel in big catches.
- Port Allen Harbor. Located on the southwest side of Kauai, this harbor is another excellent departure point for deep-sea and bluewater fishing trips.
Kauai Deep Sea Fishing Rules and Regulations
When it comes to licenses and regulations, your fishing charter will cover the necessary permits for all on board. But feel free to learn more about getting a license if you’re fishing solo in our detailed guide.
Hawaii also enforces specific regulations to ensure sustainable fishing, including size limits, closed seasons, and protected areas. Always check with your fishing charter or visit the Hawaii Division of Aquatic Resources website for the most current regulations.
One important aspect to consider is the handling of Billfish. In Hawaii, keeping and selling Billfish is legal. However, many anglers prefer to release these magnificent fish. Discuss your preferences with your captain beforehand to avoid any surprises.
Finally, it’s worth knowing that the catch is traditionally divided between the boat and the clients on charters in Hawaii. Not only that but fish over 70 pounds, such as large Yellowfin Tuna, typically stay with the boat. While it might be tempting to bring a hefty catch back home, transporting an 80 lb Tuna on a flight isn’t practical.
Kauai Deep Sea Fishing: Ride the Moana
Whether it’s the powerful Marlin, swift Tuna, or dazzling Mahi Mahi that’s luring you in, each big game trip promises a unique adventure. Embrace the island spirit, guided by expert locals who know these waters best. Ready to cast your line? Book your Kauai deep sea fishing trip and experience this little corner of paradise!
Have you ever been deep sea fishing in Kauai? What was your most impressive catch? Share your stories in the comments below!
