5.0(1 Reviews)Offshore Fishing Charter in Kailua-Kona
5.0(1 reviews)
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
6hour offshore charter targeting marlin, ahi, and mahi mahiAll tackle and gear provided with experienced local crewMultiple departure times accommodate different schedules daily
When it comes to world-class offshore fishing, few places on earth can match the waters off Kailua-Kona. This 6-hour charter puts you right in the action, targeting some of the Pacific's most prized gamefish including Marlin, Ahi, and Mahi Mahi. Captain Jeff and his crew at Konadice Sportfishing know these waters like the back of their hand, and they're ready to put you on fish from the moment you leave the harbor. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip delivers the goods with multiple departure times to fit your schedule. The boat's dialed in, the gear's top-notch, and the crew's got that local knowledge that makes all the difference when you're hunting big pelagics in Hawaiian waters.
Your day starts at Kailua-Kona harbor where you'll meet Captain Jeff and his crew aboard a clean, well-maintained fishing vessel that's built for the job. These guys run a tight ship and know exactly where to find fish based on current conditions, water temperature, and seasonal patterns. The beauty of fishing Kona's waters is that you don't have to run far to get into serious fishing—we're talking just a short ride before you're dropping lines in prime blue water territory. The crew handles all the rigging and bait preparation while you soak in those Big Island views. Early morning departures are popular with serious anglers looking to capitalize on that dawn bite, but mid-day and afternoon trips can be just as productive, especially when targeting species that feed throughout the day. You'll have room to move around with a max of 6 anglers, so everyone gets their shot at the action without feeling crowded.
This is all about trolling the deep blue, which means you'll be covering water with multiple lines out, working lures and bait at different depths and distances behind the boat. The crew runs a mix of outriggers and center rigger setups, allowing them to spread the spread and target different species simultaneously. They've got the tackle dialed—heavy conventional reels spooled with quality line, rods that can handle anything from a screaming Ahi to a jumping Marlin. The lure selection changes based on conditions and target species, but expect to see everything from cedar plugs and jets to live bait when the bite calls for it. The captain reads the water constantly, adjusting speed, direction, and lure presentation based on what he's seeing. Bird activity, color changes, temperature breaks—all these factors play into where and how you fish. When a fish hits, the crew's right there to coach you through the fight, whether it's your first big pelagic or your hundredth.
"Captain Jeff and his crew were AMAZING. They put us on fish right away and it was non stop. i actually had to take a small break lol because i was catching so many fish. so I highly recommend Kona dice to everyone. You will not be disappointed and you'll leave with a bag of fish just like I did thank you Kona dice appreciate the time and I would recommend the six hour or above. Also got to see Whales and 🦈 as well. great trip great day." - Jonas
Shortbill Spearfish are the wildcards of Kona's offshore scene. These smaller billfish pack serious attitude and put on an aerial show that'll get your heart pumping. They typically run 20-40 pounds and are known for their aggressive strikes on smaller lures and live bait. Peak season runs from spring through fall, and they're often the first to hit when you're working a mixed spread. What makes them special is their speed and acrobatics—when a Shortbill comes tight, you're in for multiple jumps and blazing runs that test your drag settings.
Yellowcheek Wrasse might not be the target species you're thinking about, but these colorful reef dwellers occasionally show up when you're working structure or transitional areas. They're more of a bonus fish, but their vibrant colors and unique appearance make them photo-worthy catches that add variety to your day.
Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish are pure gold in these waters. These fish are famous for their stunning colors, aggressive feeding, and excellent table fare. Mahi typically range from 10-30 pounds in Kona waters, with larger bulls occasionally pushing 40-plus. They love floating debris, current lines, and structure, making them perfect targets for trolling operations. Spring through fall offers the best action, and when you find a school, it's often game on for multiple hookups. Their fighting style combines powerful runs with aerial displays, and their electric blues and greens make every Mahi a keeper photo.
Wahoo Fish are the speed demons of the deep. These torpedo-shaped predators can hit 60+ miles per hour and are known for their devastating initial runs that can strip line faster than you can react. Most Kona Wahoo run 20-50 pounds, with occasional giants pushing the 60-80 pound range. They're structure oriented and often found around drop-offs and seamounts. High-speed trolling with wire leaders is the standard approach, as their razor-sharp teeth can cut through mono in a heartbeat. The meat is outstanding—firm, white, and perfect for sashimi or grilling.
Yellowfin Tuna, locally called Ahi, are the bread and butter of Kona's offshore fishery. These powerful fish range from school-sized 15-30 pounders to massive 100+ pound giants that will test every ounce of your tackle and stamina. Ahi are present year-round but peak during summer and fall months. They're known for their incredible endurance, often making long, sustained runs that can take
This beautifully restored 1973 Bertram 35-footer is your ticket to Big Island's best offshore fishing grounds. Twin 330HP Cummins diesels push this classic sportfish at a steady 17 knots, getting you to the marlin and ahi grounds without burning your whole day in transit. The 2018 restoration keeps everything running smooth while maintaining that authentic fishing boat feel. The flybridge gives you great visibility for spotting birds and bait schools, while the fish finder helps locate those deeper holding areas where the big yellowfin hang out. You've got a proper icebox to keep your catch fresh and drinks cold, plus a head for those longer days chasing mahi mahi. With room for six anglers, there's plenty of space to work the rods without getting tangled up during the fight. The captain knows these Kona waters inside and out – where the currents break, where the bait concentrates, and when to switch from trolling to bottom fishing. All tackle's provided, so just bring your appetite for adventure and maybe some snacks for the ride.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi mahi are pure gold when they're fresh out of the water - literally. These beauties average 15-29 pounds but can hit 40+ pounds, with that distinctive flat forehead on the bulls. They love floating debris, weed lines, and current breaks in the warm blue water. Year-round fishing here, but summer months are prime time. What guests love most is watching their colors change from brilliant gold and green to silver as you bring them aboard - it's like nature's light show. The meat is firm, mild, and perfect for grilling. They fight hard with lots of jumps and runs. My go-to technique: troll around any floating debris you see, and watch for frigate birds diving. Skip your ballyhoo on the surface to mimic flying fish - mahi can't resist that action. Once you hook one, keep trolling because they usually travel in schools.
Tetrapturus AngustirostrisShortbill Spearfish, known locally as "Hebi," are the sleekest of the billfish family. These lean fighters typically run 40-75 inches and up to 115 pounds, with their trademark short bill barely longer than their lower jaw. They cruise the open blue water, feeding on small fish and squid near the surface. Winter months bring the best action when they spawn in our warm offshore currents. What makes them special is their rarity - most are caught by accident while targeting marlin or ahi, making each one a trophy. The meat rivals white marlin with great flavor for grilling. My tip: when trolling for marlin, keep your small lures out too. These speed demons often hit when you least expect it, and their lightning-fast runs will test your drag settings.
Acanthocybium SolandriWahoo, or "Ono" as we call them here (means "delicious" in Hawaiian), are the speed demons of the deep blue. These torpedo-shaped fish average 3-5 feet but can stretch to 8 feet, hitting speeds up to 60 mph. They cruise the open ocean, usually solo or in small groups, feeding on everything from flying fish to small tuna. Peak season runs May through October in our waters. What makes them special is that blistering first run - they'll scream off 200 yards before you know what hit you. The meat is white, flaky, and mild - some of the best eating you'll find offshore. High-speed trolling at 12-15 knots works best with wire leaders since their razor teeth will slice through mono instantly. Pro tip: when you see birds working or floating debris, slow down and work the edges. Wahoo often ambush prey around structure.
Halichoeres CyanocephalusYellowcheek Wrasse aren't really offshore targets - these colorful reef fish max out around 11 inches and stick to depths of 65-300 feet over rocky bottom and coral. They're bright blue-green with yellow markings that make them popular with aquarium folks, but as juveniles they actually work as "cleaner fish" picking parasites off bigger species. You'll find them year-round in Hawaiian waters, though they're more of a bonus catch when bottom fishing near structure. Kids love catching these because they're pretty aggressive on small baits like cut squid or worms. Use light tackle - size 4-6 hooks work best. Pro tip: if you're seeing lots of wrasse activity, there's usually bigger fish around since the juveniles clean them. Keep your bigger baits in the water while the kids have fun with these colorful characters.
Thunnus AlbacaresYellowfin tuna - we call them "Ahi" here - are the workhorses of our offshore fishing. These torpedo-shaped fighters average 60 pounds but can push 200+ pounds, cruising the upper water column in schools. They're here year-round, but summer brings the best action when bait is thick. What hooks guests is that raw power - they'll make screaming runs that test your tackle and endurance. The meat is premium sushi-grade, dark red and rich. They're warm-blooded fish that can sustain long fights. We target them trolling with rigged ballyhoo and cedar plugs, but jigging works great when you mark them deep. Chunking with live bait brings them up from the depths. My local trick: when the trolling slows down, switch to heavy jigs and work the thermocline. These fish often hang 100-200 feet down during midday heat.
5.0 out of 5.0Captain Jeff and his crew were AMAZING. They put us on fish right away and it was non stop. i actually had to take a small break l...
Kailua-Kona