Kona Blue Sportfishing 

5.0
(37 reviews)
 Kealakehe Parkway 74-381, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States–

Kona Blue Sportfishing 

Kailua-Kona, HI, United States
–
47 ft
6
5.0
(37 reviews)

If you're ready to get hooked on fishing in Kailua-Kona, we've got you covered with Kona Blue Sportfishing. With Captain Marlin at the helm, you're in knowledgeable and experienced hands.

Depending on the time of year, you might hook into Dolphin (Mahi Mahi), Blue Marlin, Sailfish, Swordfish, Skipjack Tuna, Yellowfin Tuna, Wahoo, Albacore Tuna, Shortbill Spearfish, Black Marlin, Striped Marlin, and anything else that bites.

You'll target your catch by light tackle fishing, trolling, or maybe something more specialized in this area.

You're free to bring home any fish you catch, so long as regulations allow it. Plus, you can have your catch cleaned. Talk about bang for your buck!

Thinking of bringing the whole family? Kids are absolutely welcome! Children must wear life vests, so find out if the appropriate size is available on board. And, you can't go wrong with snacks for a boost of energy when needed!

Capt. Marlin runs a 47' Sportfishing that holds up to 6 passengers. It comes with outriggers, downriggers, a fighting chair, and all the essentials. There's a toilet on board for your convenience. What's more, this vessel is wheelchair accessible.

Rods, reels, and tackle are provided, as well as lures. Live bait is available, but it's good to ask about this so you know if you'll be catching it yourself.

There will be a First Mate on board to help your trip run smoothly. Mates work hard to make your trip count, so a 10–20% tip is customary.

Your fishing license for the day is covered by the charter boat, just show up ready for some fishing! Have in mind that you may release some fish due to regulations. If you don't know what to expect, ask the captain.

You can't go wrong when you bring sunglasses, sunscreen (non-spray), bottled water, and a hat. There will be some drinks on offer, but let the captain know if you wish to bring your own. Alcohol is allowed in moderation, just be sure to avoid hard liquor as well as glass bottles. There will be some light snacks provided on board.

Get in touch with Capt. Marlin below and start planning your trip today!

If you're ready to get hooked on fishing in Kailua-Kona, we've got you covered with Kona Blue Sportfishing. With Captain Marlin at the helm, you're in knowledgeable and experienced hands.

Depending on the time of year, you might hook into Dolphin (Mahi Mahi), Blue Marlin, Sailfish, Swordfish, Skipjack Tuna, Yellowfin Tuna, Wahoo, Albacore Tuna, Shortbill Spearfish, Black Marlin, Striped Marlin, and anything else that bites.

You'll target your catch by light tackle fishing, trolling, or maybe something more specialized in this area.

You're free to bring home any fish you catch, so long as regulations allow it. Plus, you can have your catch cleaned. Talk about bang for your buck!

Thinking of bringing the whole family? Kids are absolutely welcome! Children must wear life vests, so find out if the appropriate size is available on board. And, you can't go wrong with snacks for a boost of energy when needed!

Capt. Marlin runs a 47' Sportfishing that holds up to 6 passengers. It comes with outriggers, downriggers, a fighting chair, and all the essentials. There's a toilet on board for your convenience. What's more, this vessel is wheelchair accessible.

Rods, reels, and tackle are provided, as well as lures. Live bait is available, but it's good to ask about this so you know if you'll be catching it yourself.

There will be a First Mate on board to help your trip run smoothly. Mates work hard to make your trip count, so a 10–20% tip is customary.

Your fishing license for the day is covered by the charter boat, just show up ready for some fishing! Have in mind that you may release some fish due to regulations. If you don't know what to expect, ask the captain.

You can't go wrong when you bring sunglasses, sunscreen (non-spray), bottled water, and a hat. There will be some drinks on offer, but let the captain know if you wish to bring your own. Alcohol is allowed in moderation, just be sure to avoid hard liquor as well as glass bottles. There will be some light snacks provided on board.

Get in touch with Capt. Marlin below and start planning your trip today!

Marlin Kahl
Captain
Marlin Kahl
11 years of experience
ID & credentials verified
responds within an hour

Select date to see availability

Trip date:
Group Size:
November 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
Change
3/4 Day Trip
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
6 hour trip starts at 6:30 AM
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Marlin (Blue)
Tuna (Yellowfin)
Spearfish (Shortbill)
+1
US $1,800
Entire boat: up to 6 people
Full Day Trip
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 6:30 AM
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Marlin (Blue)
Sailfish
Tuna (Yellowfin)
+3
US $2,000
Entire boat: up to 6 people

Customer reviews

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Rating

5.0
37 reviews
5.0
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
4.9
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (62)

What anglers say

97%
Recommended
75%
Caught fish

Reviews (37)

  • Billy Cunningham
    Billy Cunningham
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Memory maker!

    Full Day Trip on June 15, 2026 • 6 adults

    I cant begin to explain how much my family and I enjoyed this trip! Not only were the captain and deck hand knowledgeable, they were also extremely patient with us. I can't reccomend these guys enough , they definitely put us on the fish! My daughter got to fulfill a bucket list moment by catching her first blue marlin! I wish I could have given them more than a 5 star rating. My family and I will definitely be returning for another trip! Thank you guys for one of the most memorable experiences on the water my family has ever had!

  • Blayne St James
    Blayne St James
    Repeat angler
    us
    Colorado, US
    Member since 2023
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Family and legacy

    Full Day Trip on June 22, 2026 • 3 adults

    I landed my first marlin at the age of 12 while visiting Kona. Nearly 38 yrs later I brought my oldest son over ss a graduation present. He kept the tradition going and landed two on the second day of fishing. Big tuna on day one. Crew was highly experienced and had a great time fishing with them. I’ll 100% fish with this outfit again.

  • Ryan Harrison
    Ryan Harrison
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Great trip with great guys!

    Full Day Trip on June 6, 2026 • 2 adults

    My wife and I spent the day with Marlin and Brandon chasing fish. Even though the bite was slow, we still caught two ono and ended up with dinner. These guys are great and the boat was very comfortable. We’ll be back.

  • Brock Hardisty
    Brock Hardisty
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Top-notch experience

    Full Day Trip on December 28, 2025 • 2 adults

    Capt. Marlin and first mate Matt were incredible. They keep an immaculate boat, are highly professional, knowledgeable of the waters, and all-around great guys. We had a blast, caught some of our dream fish, and can’t wait to go back. 11 of 10 stars.

  • Vernon Conaway
    Vernon Conaway
    Repeat angler
    us
    Oklahoma, US
    Member since 2024
    3 trips
    5.0

    Wow!!!!

    Full Day Trip on May 7, 2025

    Captain Marlin and Brandon were amazing guides! Super communicative and friendly from the beginning made this trip stress free. Caught and released two blue marlin and caught one Mahi for dinner! The crew provided great instruction and teaching throughout the trip. Fantastic boat - super clean and well maintained. Interior cabin was super comfy and what a great bathroom (best I’ve ever seen in a fishing boat). Can’t recommend this team enough. I will definitely be back!!!!

  • Wesley Batterton
    Wesley Batterton
    Repeat angler
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2022
    5 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    True Passion

    Full Day Trip on May 26, 2024 • 2 adults

    Our experience with Captain Marlin & Kona Blue was top notch from start to finish. Communication, punctuality, professionalism were all outstanding & very much appreciated. When booking, we messaged Captain Marlin to let him know that our target species would be the “prestigious grander” somewhat in jest & knowing that these chances are few and far between. To our surprise, he didn’t shy away from the tall order & seemed to relish the challenge with an humble confidence. At the end of the day, we landed 2 blue marlin, 1 wahoo & had a blast learning about the culture & history of the island in the process.

  • Dominic Bustillos
    Dominic Bustillos
    Repeat angler
    us
    Hawaii, US
    Member since 2025
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    OUSTANDING!!!

    3/4 Day Trip on October 2, 2025 • 3 adults

    The Kona Blue Crew (Capt. Marlin & Brandon) were outstanding!!! These guys understood safety, explained the reeling instructions, knew where they were going, and had an overall excellent attitude with good communication. This helps when you are all going out with the same intentions... of catching fish!!! Very nice boat with the necessary amenities covered. Highly recommend this boat and crew to anyone...

  • Austin Orr
    Austin Orr
    us
    Texas, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Great experience with Kona Blue

    Full Day Trip on August 21, 2025 • 6 adults

    I would definitely recommend Capt. Marlin and the Kona Blue to anyone looking for a serious billfish trip. The boat is in top notch shape, with new electronics, a Seakeeper system and a beautiful interior. First mate Brandon was very helpful in getting us ready to fight fish with proper form, and we felt taken care of the entire day.

  • Garyn Angel
    Garyn Angel
    us
    Florida, US
    Member since 2024
    5.0
    Verified

    Kona Slam, Incredible Experience, Book this Boat!!!

    Full Day Trip on June 26, 2024 • 2 adults

    We booked this boat because it looked beautiful. First we caught a spearfish, 5 minutes later another spearfish hit. An hour and a half later we landed a striped marlin. Then the grand slam with 20 minutes left in our trip we caught a 200 lb Marlin. Cheers to Captain Marlin & first mate Mikey- you crushed it for us! Thank you for a charter we will never forget.

  • Joseph Bliley
    Joseph Bliley
    Repeat angler
    us
    New York, US
    Member since 2021
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Fantastic fishing trip

    3/4 Day Trip on July 10, 2024 • 2 adults

    We had a fantastic day out with Captain Marlin and the Kona Blue. Captain knows how to fish Marlin and Tuna and the Kona Blue is a fantastic ship. We landed two Blue Marlins and had an awesome trip. Recommended very highly!

FAQs about Kona Blue Sportfishing

Kona Blue Sportfishing offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $1,800 per group - 3/4 Day Trip (6 hours)
  • US $2,000 per group - Full Day Trip (8 hours)
When you book a trip with Kona Blue Sportfishing, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • Toilet 1 Vacu flush toilet systems
  • Air conditioning
  • Fighting chair Release
  • GPS Garmin
  • Fishfinder Furuno OMNI Directional
  • Bed
  • Flybridge
  • Live bait well
  • Kitchen
  • Refrigerator
  • Multimedia system
  • Outriggers Rupp
  • Tuna tubes
  • Ice box
  • Radar Garmin Radar and Depth Sounder
Trips booked with Kona Blue Sportfishing include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle (Shimano 130s Melton custom rods)
  • Live bait (Only about 5% of our fish caught are on live bait, live tunas when we do.)
  • Lures
  • Catch cleaning & filleting (No charge)
  • Snacks (Chips)
  • Drinks (Bottled Water, juice )
  • First mate (Just like a restaurant 20 is customary anything more is much appreciated and you will feel is well deserved, I assure that from our top notch crew with his over 20+yrs experience traveling the world fishing. )
Kona Blue Sportfishing offers the following types of fishing:
  • Nearshore fishing
  • Offshore fishing (Four miles offshore and we're in 6,000ft of water, we'll spend our time at or inside of that drop off. )
Kona Blue Sportfishing offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Heavy tackle
  • Trolling
  • Deep sea fishing
Top targeted fish species with Kona Blue Sportfishing include:
  • Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
  • Marlin (Black)
  • Marlin (Blue)
  • Marlin (Striped)
  • Sailfish
  • Spearfish (Shortbill)
  • Swordfish
  • Tuna (Albacore)
  • Tuna (Skipjack)
  • Tuna (Yellowfin)
  • Wahoo

Your captain

Marlin Kahl
Marlin Kahl
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, United States
4 Fishing Reports
ID & license verified
37 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since February 2017
Capt Marlin was born and raised in Hawaii, he's been a tournament fisherman for some time now and started fishing with his Dad. He has won 3 tournaments in Kailua-Kona. His biggest Marlin caught was over 900Ibs.
Marlin Kahl
Marlin Kahl
Fully verified
4
reports
37
reviews
2017
member since
~1h
response
Capt Marlin was born and raised in Hawaii, he's been a tournament fisherman for some time now and started fishing with his Dad. He has won 3 tournaments in Kailua-Kona. His biggest Marlin caught was over 900Ibs.

The fish you can target

Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Black Marlin
Black Marlin
Blue Marlin
Blue Marlin
Striped Marlin
Striped Marlin
Sailfish
Sailfish
Shortbill Spearfish
Shortbill Spearfish
Swordfish
Swordfish
Albacore Tuna
Albacore Tuna
Skipjack Tuna
Skipjack Tuna
Yellowfin Tuna
Yellowfin Tuna
Wahoo
Wahoo
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Black Marlin
Black Marlin
Blue Marlin
Blue Marlin
Striped Marlin
Striped Marlin
Sailfish
Sailfish

Real catches by this captain

  • Two anglers on a boat are engaged in the excitement of reeling in a large fish, likely a marlin, in deep blue waters.
    Fish 1
    Blue Marlin
    Blayne S.
    Blayne S.
    I landed my first marlin at the age of 12 while visiting Kona. Nearly 38 yrs later I brought my oldest son over ss a graduation present. He kept the tradition going and landed two on the second day of fishing. Big tuna on day one. Crew was highly experienced and had a great time fishing with them. I’ll 100% fish with this outfit again.
  • A large fish, likely a marlin, is being reeled in during a deep-sea fishing trip, showcasing the excitement of sport fishing.
    Fish 1
    Blue Marlin
    Billy C.
    Billy C.
    I cant begin to explain how much my family and I enjoyed this trip! Not only were the captain and deck hand knowledgeable, they were also extremely patient with us. I can't reccomend these guys enough , they definitely put us on the fish! My daughter got to fulfill a bucket list moment by catching her first blue marlin! I wish I could have given them more than a 5 star rating. My family and I will definitely be returning for another trip! Thank you guys for one of the most memorable experiences on the water my family has ever had!
  • A freshly caught wahoo displayed on the deck of a center-console fishing boat, with a fighting chair and rod visible.
    Ryan H.
    Ryan H.
    My wife and I spent the day with Marlin and Brandon chasing fish. Even though the bite was slow, we still caught two ono and ended up with dinner. These guys are great and the boat was very comfortable. We’ll be back.
  • A large Marlin is being reeled in during a deep-sea fishing trip, showcasing the excitement of sport fishing.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    +1
    Sailfish
    Brock H.
    Brock H.
    Capt. Marlin and first mate Matt were incredible. They keep an immaculate boat, are highly professional, knowledgeable of the waters, and all-around great guys. We had a blast, caught some of our dream fish, and can’t wait to go back. 11 of 10 stars.
  • Two anglers proudly displaying a vibrant Mahi Mahi aboard a boat during a deep-sea fishing trip.
    Fish 1
    Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
    Kona Blue Sporfishing
  • A scenic view from the side of a fishing boat, showcasing the calm waters and mountainous backdrop during a fishing trip.
    Dominic B.
    Dominic B.
    The Kona Blue Crew (Capt. Marlin & Brandon) were outstanding!!! These guys understood safety, explained the reeling instructions, knew where they were going, and had an overall excellent attitude with good communication. This helps when you are all going out with the same intentions... of catching fish!!! Very nice boat with the necessary amenities covered. Highly recommend this boat and crew to anyone...
  • A group of anglers proudly displaying a large Wahoo on a sportfishing boat during a deep-sea fishing trip.
    Austin O.
    Austin O.
    I would definitely recommend Capt. Marlin and the Kona Blue to anyone looking for a serious billfish trip. The boat is in top notch shape, with new electronics, a Seakeeper system and a beautiful interior. First mate Brandon was very helpful in getting us ready to fight fish with proper form, and we felt taken care of the entire day.
  • Billfish leaping from the open ocean in a dramatic offshore fishing action shot.
    Fish 1
    Blue Marlin
    Jason S.
    Jason S.
    It's easy to leave a 5* review when your son catches a short-billed spearfish and a 500+ (600#) pound blue marlin!! Way to go guys!!!
  • A young angler joyfully displaying a large fish while aboard a fishing boat, showcasing the excitement of a successful catch in open waters.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Little Tunny (False Albacore)
    Robert M.
    Robert M.
    Captain and crew were amazing. The boat is beautiful and it was an overall great experience. Will for sure book with Kona Blue on our next fishing adventure.
  • A fisherman actively reeling in a large Marlin while out on the open ocean, showcasing the excitement of deep-sea fishing.
    Fish 1
    Striped Marlin
    Joseph B.
    Joseph B.
    We had a fantastic day out with Captain Marlin and the Kona Blue. Captain knows how to fish Marlin and Tuna and the Kona Blue is a fantastic ship. We landed two Blue Marlins and had an awesome trip. Recommended very highly!

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Sportfishing boats
Capacity
6 persons
Boat length
47 ft
Year built
2006
Restored in
2023
Boat manufacturer
Cabo
Boat type
Sportfishing
Engine model
MAN
Powered by
2 x 800HP
Max cruising speed
35 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

Nearshore Fishing
Offshore Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Heavy Tackle
Trolling
Deep Sea Fishing

Which amenities are available onboard

Toilet
1 Vacu flush toilet systems
Air conditioning
Fighting chair
Release
GPS
Garmin
Fishfinder
Furuno OMNI Directional
Bed
Flybridge
Live bait well
Kitchen
Refrigerator
Multimedia system
Outriggers
Rupp
Tuna tubes
Ice box
Radar
Garmin Radar and Depth Sounder
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Shimano 130s Melton custom rods
Live bait
Only about 5% of our fish caught are on live bait, live tunas when we do.
Lures
Catch cleaning & filleting
No charge
Snacks
Chips
Drinks
Bottled Water, juice
First mate
Just like a restaurant 20 is customary anything more is much appreciated and you will feel is well deserved, I assure that from our top notch crew with his over 20+yrs experience traveling the world fishing.

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 7 days prior to trip
You can cancel or modify your booking up to 7 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.
More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup not included
Transfer to/from departure site is not included in trip rates.
Child friendly
10yr old minimum age policy, more then welcome above that.
You keep catch
Catch and release allowed
Disabled accessible

How you can pay

Book with 15% deposit, pay rest to captain
When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 15% deposit to guarantee your reservation.
The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:
 Cash
 Visa
 Mastercard
 American Express
 PayPal
 Checks
 Bank transfer

What’s biting in Kailua-Kona right now

Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Marlin (Black)Marlin (Black)
Marlin (Blue)Marlin (Blue)
Marlin (Striped)Marlin (Striped)
Spearfish (Shortbill)Spearfish (Shortbill)
Spearfish (Shortbill)Spearfish (Shortbill)
SwordfishSwordfish
Tuna (Skipjack)Tuna (Skipjack)
Tuna (Yellowfin)Tuna (Yellowfin)
WahooWahoo

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Fish 1
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+9
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