Full-Day Kona Offshore Big Game Charter
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Fullday 8hour offshore charter targeting marlin, tuna, and mahiExtended trolling patterns increase chances of landing trophy fishProfessional crew accommodates up to 6 anglers with flexible scheduling
When you're serious about chasing trophy fish in Hawaii, nothing beats a full 8-hour day on the water off Kailua-Kona. This isn't your typical half-day tourist trip – we're talking about getting out to the real productive water where the big pelagics roam. The Kona Coast is famous worldwide for its consistent blue marlin action, and with a full day charter, you've got the time to work multiple areas, follow the birds, and really dial in on where the fish are feeding. We'll launch early to beat the crowds and make the most of those prime morning bite windows that shorter trips often miss entirely.
Your day starts before dawn at Honokohau Harbor, where Captain and crew will have the boat prepped and ready to roll. We're not wasting any time – straight out to the fishing grounds where the deep blue water holds everything from massive Pacific blue marlin to lightning-fast wahoo. The beauty of an 8-hour trip is flexibility. If we mark fish on the sonar in 400 feet of water, we can stay and work that area. If the action heats up out in 1,000-foot depths, we've got the fuel and time to make those longer runs. You'll spend your day trolling through some of the most consistent big game waters in the Pacific, with the crew constantly adjusting lure spreads, checking water temperatures, and reading the signs that lead to fish. The boat accommodates up to 6 anglers comfortably, so whether you're bringing the whole family or a group of fishing buddies, everyone gets plenty of rod time.
We fish exclusively with heavy trolling tackle designed to handle whatever the Pacific throws at us. The standard spread includes a mix of large marlin lures, smaller tuna plugs, and versatile mahi jigs – all rigged on 80 to 130-pound test gear that can stop a charging marlin in its tracks. The crew runs a proven five or six-lure pattern, adjusting speeds and depths based on conditions and what species we're targeting. Early morning might call for deeper diving lures to reach yellowfin holding in the thermocline, while midday often sees us switching to surface spreaders and bird bars that drive mahi and wahoo crazy. All tackle, bait, and lures are included, though serious anglers are welcome to bring their own gear if they've got specific setups they prefer. The boat's electronics include high-end fish finders, GPS chartplotters, and temperature gauges that help us locate the temperature breaks and structure where big fish concentrate.
The waters off Kona deliver year-round action, but each season brings its own highlights. Blue marlin are the crown jewel here, with fish ranging from 200-pound "small" blues up to true giants pushing 800 pounds or more. These fish are apex predators, and when one hits your lure, you'll know it instantly – the reel starts screaming and suddenly everyone on the boat is part of the fight. Yellowfin tuna provide consistent action, especially during summer months when schools move close to shore. These 50 to 150-pound fish are pure muscle and will test both your tackle and your endurance. Mahi mahi are the most reliable bite, with schools often traveling together, meaning once you find one, you're likely to boat several. Wahoo are speed demons that can strip 200 yards of line in seconds, while striped marlin and shortbill spearfish add variety to the mix. The full-day format means you're not rushed – when the fish are biting, you can stay on them instead of having to head back to port just as the action heats up.
Blue marlin are what put Kona on the sportfishing map, and for good reason. These prehistoric predators patrol the deep water drop-offs just miles from shore, feeding on everything from skipjack tuna to flying fish. Peak season runs from May through September, though quality fish are caught year-round. Blues are sight feeders that respond to large, colorful lures trolled at 8-10 knots, and when they decide to eat, the strike is explosive. Most charter boats practice catch and release for marlin, making these encounters about the experience rather than the meat.
Yellowfin tuna are the workhorses of the Kona fleet, providing consistent action and excellent table fare. These fish school in deeper water, often around 400-1,000 feet, where they feed on baitfish and squid. Summer and fall months are peak season, when schools of 50-200 pound fish move within range of day boats. Yellowfin fight deep and hard, using their broad tails and stamina to test even experienced anglers. The meat is sashimi-grade, making these fish highly sought after by both sport and commercial fishermen.
Mahi mahi are the most cooperative fish in Hawaiian waters, readily taking both lures and live bait. These colorful dolphins (not the mammal) travel in schools, often under floating debris or around fish aggregation devices. Peak season runs from spring through fall, with fish ranging from 10-pound schoolies up to 50-pound bulls. Mahi are acrobatic fighters that jump repeatedly when hooked, putting on a show that's especially exciting for younger anglers and first-timers.
Wahoo are the speed merchants of the offshore fleet, capable of reaching 60 mph in short bursts. These toothy predators prefer high-speed trolling with wire leaders, hitting lures with such velocity that they often hook themselves. Fall and winter months see the best wahoo action in Kona waters, with fish ranging from 20 to 80 pounds. Their razor-sharp teeth can slice through heavy monofilament, making proper rigging essential for success.
Black marlin,
Your big game fishing platform awaits – a newly restored 39' Topaz sportfisher that's been completely rebuilt for the 2025 season. Twin 500HP Yanmar engines push this serious fishing machine at a steady 24-knot cruise, getting you to the productive offshore waters where marlin, ahi, and mahi roam the deep blue. The boat's setup is built for serious anglers – fish finder technology to locate baitfish and structure, GPS navigation to mark productive spots, and an icebox plus refrigerator to keep your catch fresh. The flybridge gives your captain excellent visibility for spotting birds and surface activity while you work the spread below. When you need a break from fighting fish, retreat to the air-conditioned cabin complete with multimedia system, galley, and comfortable sleeping quarters. The onboard head means no cutting trips short, and with space for up to 6 anglers, there's room to spread out whether you're battling a blue marlin or waiting for the next strike. This full-day charter gives you 8 hours to work the offshore grounds where Kona's legendary fishing happens – enough time to run multiple patterns, adjust to conditions, and stay on fish when they're biting hot.
Istiompax IndicaBlack marlin are the heavy hitters - bulkier and more aggressive than their blue cousins, typically running 200-600 pounds with occasional giants over 1,000. They prefer warmer waters near reefs and drop-offs, often cruising closer to shore than blues. While rare in Kona waters, when they show up it's usually during our warmest months. What sets them apart? Pure raw power and an attitude - these fish will charge the boat and aren't afraid to use that bill. Their rigid pectoral fins make them less streamlined but incredibly strong fighters. The battles are legendary, often lasting hours. Key tip: if you're lucky enough to hook one, stay clear of that spear and be ready for the fight of your life.
Makaira NigricansBlue marlin are the kings of Kona waters - massive billfish that can reach 1,000+ pounds (females) while males stay around 300-400 lbs. They cruise the deep blue water beyond the 100-fathom line, using their spear-like bills to stun prey. Peak season runs May through September when water temps hit 78°F+. What makes them special? Pure power and those legendary jumps when hooked. Expect a multi-hour battle that'll test your stamina. The meat's decent but most anglers go catch-and-release for bragging rights. Pro tip: when trolling lures, keep your spread tight to the ledge around 1,000-1,200 feet - that's where the big girls patrol for yellowfin tuna.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi mahi are the colorful speedsters that brighten any trip - brilliant gold and green fish that put on quite a show when fighting. Most run 15-30 pounds, though we see some bulls pushing 50+. They love floating debris, weed lines, and current breaks in 100-2,000 feet of water. Best action typically runs April through October when water warms up. Guests love them because they're aggressive fighters, jump like crazy, and make outstanding table fare - sweet, flaky white meat that's perfect for fish tacos. When you hook one, there's usually more around since they school up. Local trick: once you find a school, throw some chum and switch to lighter tackle for non-stop action.
Acanthocybium SolandriWahoo are the speed demons of the offshore world - sleek, striped rockets that can hit 60 mph. Most fish we catch run 20-50 pounds, but monsters over 80 are possible. They patrol the blue water from 200-1,000 feet, often around drop-offs and current edges. Peak season here is May through October, especially during dawn and dusk. What draws anglers? That blistering first run and some of the best eating in the ocean - firm white meat with a mild, sweet flavor. They're solitary hunters, so catching one is always special. Pro tip: high-speed trolling at 15+ knots with wire leaders is key - their razor teeth will slice through mono in seconds. Look for bird activity over deep water.
Thunnus AlbacaresYellowfin tuna are the workhorses of our offshore fishery - powerful, torpedo-shaped fish averaging 60-150 pounds that can reach 400+. They cruise the upper water column from 50-300 feet, often in schools around current breaks and seamounts. Year-round fishing with peak action May through October when bait concentrations are thickest. Anglers love them for their bulldogging fight and world-class sashimi quality - this is premium ahi that rivals any restaurant. They're warm-blooded fish that can sustain long battles. When surface action slows, try vertical jigging - dropping heavy jigs to 200+ feet often triggers strikes from fish that won't hit trolled baits. Watch for diving birds and porpoise schools.
Kailua-Kona, HI