Saltwater Fishing Molokai Hawaii

If you’re an avid angler or just looking to try your hand at saltwater fishing, Molokai Hawaii is a must-visit destination. With crystal clear waters, abundant fish populations, and stunning landscapes, Molokai offers a unique and unforgettable fishing experience. From the best spots to catch fish, to the gear and techniques to use, there’s something for everyone in Molokai. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at saltwater fishing in Molokai Hawaii and provide expert tips and tricks to help you plan your next fishing adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, you’re sure to have a great time on the waters of Molokai. So grab your fishing gear and let’s dive in!

Best Saltwater Fishing Spots in Molokai Hawaii

Molokai Hawaii is a hidden gem for saltwater fishing enthusiasts. With its pristine waters, diverse fish species, and breathtaking scenery, there’s no shortage of great fishing spots to explore. Here are some of the best saltwater fishing spots in Molokai Hawaii:

1. Puko’o Fishing Village: Located on the east coast of Molokai, Puko’o Fishing Village is a great spot for shore fishing. Anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish, including bonefish, trevally, and snapper.
2. Kaunakakai Wharf: This popular fishing spot is located in the town of Kaunakakai and is known for its abundant yellowfin tuna, skipjack tuna, and mahi-mahi. The wharf is also a great place to catch reef fish, such as snapper and butterfly fish.
3. Moomomi Beach: This remote beach on Molokai’s northwest coast is a prime spot for surf casting. The beach’s deep drop-offs make it a great location to catch ulua, a prized game fish in Hawaii.
4. Halawa Bay: Located on the east coast of Molokai, Halawa Bay is a beautiful spot for kayak fishing. Anglers can explore the bay’s coral reefs and catch a variety of fish, including bonefish, trevally, and barracuda.
5. Kamalo Wharf: Kamalo Wharf is a great spot for family fishing, as it’s easily accessible and offers a variety of fish species. Anglers can expect to catch fish like trevally, bonefish, and mackerel.
6. Kaiwi Channel: The Kaiwi Channel, which separates Molokai from Oahu, is a great location for deep-sea fishing. Anglers can target big game fish like marlin, tuna, and swordfish, as well as smaller fish like mahi-mahi and ono.

Types of Saltwater Fish in Molokai Hawaii

Molokai Hawaii offers a diverse range of saltwater fish species, making it a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts. Here are some of the most popular types of saltwater fish that can be found in Molokai Hawaii:

1. Yellowfin Tuna: This large, powerful fish is a popular target for sport fishing in Molokai Hawaii. Yellowfin tuna can weigh up to 300 pounds and are known for their speed and strength.
2. Mahi-Mahi: Also known as dorado or dolphin fish, Mahi-Mahi is a colorful and delicious game fish. They can be found in the waters around Molokai Hawaii year-round and are known for their acrobatic jumps when hooked.
3. Ulua: A prized game fish in Hawaii, ulua is a type of jack that can grow up to six feet long. They are a challenging catch and are typically found in rocky or deep-water areas.
4. Trevally: There are several species of trevally found in Molokai Hawaii, including the giant trevally (also known as ulua). Trevally are powerful and aggressive fish, making them a popular target for sport fishing.
5. Snapper: Several species of snapper can be found in the waters around Molokai Hawaii, including the crimson snapper, yellowtail snapper, and onaga snapper. Snapper are prized for their firm, white meat and are a popular target for both recreational and commercial fishing.
6. Bonefish: Bonefish are a popular game fish for fly fishermen in Molokai Hawaii. They are known for their speed and agility and are often found in shallow, sandy flats.

Best Time of Year for Saltwater Fishing in Molokai Hawaii

The best time of year for saltwater fishing in Molokai Hawaii depends on the type of fish you’re targeting. Here are some general guidelines for the best time of year to fish for some of the most popular species in Molokai Hawaii:

1. Yellowfin Tuna: Yellowfin tuna can be found in the waters around Molokai Hawaii year-round, but the best time to catch them is typically from May to September.
2. Mahi-Mahi: Mahi-Mahi can be found in Molokai Hawaii waters year-round, but the best time to catch them is from May to September, when they are most abundant.
3. Ulua: Ulua can be caught year-round, but the best time to catch them is during the summer months, from May to August, when the water is warmer.
4. Trevally: Trevally can be caught year-round, but the best time to catch them is during the summer months, from May to August, when the water is warmer.
5. Snapper: Snapper can be caught year-round in Molokai Hawaii waters, but the best time to catch them is during the summer months, from May to September, when they are most active.
6. Bonefish: Bonefish can be caught year-round, but the best time to catch them is from April to November, when the water is warmer.

Best Bait for Saltwater Fishing in Molokai Hawaii

The best bait for saltwater fishing in Molokai Hawaii can vary depending on the species of fish you’re targeting. Here are some common baits and lures that are effective for saltwater fishing in Molokai Hawaii:

1. Live bait: Live bait can be highly effective for catching a variety of saltwater fish in Molokai Hawaii, such as ulua, trevally, and snapper. Popular live baits include shrimp, squid, and small fish like anchovies or sardines.
2. Artificial lures: Artificial lures are a great alternative to live bait and can be effective for catching a variety of fish in Molokai Hawaii. Lures like jigs, poppers, and soft plastics can be used to catch species like ulua, trevally, and bonefish.
3. Cut bait: Cut bait is another popular option for saltwater fishing in Molokai Hawaii. Fish like mullet, mackerel, and bonito can be cut into chunks and used as bait to catch larger species like tuna and mahi-mahi.
4. Fly fishing: Fly fishing is a popular method for targeting bonefish in Molokai Hawaii. Flies that mimic shrimp, crabs, and small baitfish can be effective for catching bonefish in shallow, sandy flats.

Recommended Gear for Saltwater Fishing in Molokai Hawaii

The recommended gear for saltwater fishing in Molokai Hawaii depends on the type of fishing you plan to do and the species of fish you’re targeting. Here are some general recommendations for saltwater fishing gear in Molokai Hawaii:

1. Rod and reel: A medium-heavy to heavy-duty spinning or conventional rod and reel combo is recommended for most saltwater fishing in Molokai Hawaii. For larger species like tuna or mahi-mahi, a heavy-duty offshore trolling rod and reel combo may be necessary.
2. Fishing line: Monofilament or braided fishing line with a weight rating of 20 to 50 pounds is typically sufficient for most saltwater fishing in Molokai Hawaii.
3. Hooks: Circle hooks in sizes 6/0 to 8/0 are recommended for catching larger species like tuna and mahi-mahi. For smaller fish like snapper or bonefish, smaller hooks in sizes 1/0 to 3/0 may be more appropriate.
4. Sinkers: Depending on the type of fishing you plan to do, sinkers of various weights may be necessary. For bottom fishing, egg sinkers or pyramid sinkers in sizes from 1 to 4 ounces are recommended.
5. Lures and bait: Depending on the species of fish you’re targeting, a variety of lures and baits may be effective. Refer to the “Best Bait for Saltwater Fishing in Molokai Hawaii” section for more information.
6. Safety gear: It’s important to wear appropriate safety gear when saltwater fishing in Molokai Hawaii. This can include a life jacket, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and non-slip shoes.
7. Other accessories: Other useful accessories for saltwater fishing in Molokai Hawaii can include a fishing net, pliers, a fillet knife, and a cooler to store your catch.

Best Saltwater Fishing Charters in Molokai Hawaii

There are a number of great saltwater fishing charters available in Molokai Hawaii. Here are some highly rated options:

1. Captain Clay Charters: Captain Clay Charters offers both half-day and full-day fishing charters that can accommodate up to six people. They specialize in deep sea fishing for species like mahi-mahi, yellowfin tuna, and ono.
2. Sea Wife II: Sea Wife II offers a variety of fishing charters, including deep sea fishing, bottom fishing, and sportfishing. They provide all necessary equipment and can accommodate up to six people.
3. Molokai Fish and Dive: Molokai Fish and Dive offers private fishing charters for up to four people. They specialize in reef and bottom fishing for species like snapper, grouper, and trevally.
4. Molokai Ocean Tours: Molokai Ocean Tours offers private fishing charters for up to six people. They offer both half-day and full-day charters and specialize in bottom fishing for species like snapper, grouper, and jacks.
5. Fish the Drop Off: Fish the Drop Off offers both private and shared fishing charters that can accommodate up to six people. They specialize in trolling for species like mahi-mahi, wahoo, and yellowfin tuna.

Fishing Regulations in Molokai Hawaii

Fishing regulations in Molokai Hawaii are set by the State of Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR). Here are some important regulations to be aware of when saltwater fishing in Molokai Hawaii:

1. Fishing license: Anyone 16 years of age or older must have a valid Hawaii fishing license to fish in Molokai Hawaii waters. Licenses can be purchased online or at various retailers.
2. Size and bag limits: There are size and bag limits for certain species of fish in Molokai Hawaii waters. For example, the minimum size for mahi-mahi is 20 inches in length and the daily bag limit is 10 fish per person.
3. Prohibited species: Certain species of fish are prohibited from being caught in Molokai Hawaii waters. These include sea turtles, sharks, and most types of rays.
4. Gear restrictions: There are gear restrictions in Molokai Hawaii waters, including limitations on the number and size of hooks, types of bait, and use of certain fishing methods.
5. Marine protected areas: There are several marine protected areas in Molokai Hawaii waters where fishing is prohibited or restricted. It’s important to check the DLNR website for information on these areas before fishing.
6. Spearfishing regulations: Spearfishing is allowed in Molokai Hawaii waters but is subject to certain regulations, including gear restrictions and size and bag limits for certain species of fish.

Where to Stay When Saltwater Fishing in Molokai Hawaii

Molokai Hawaii offers a variety of lodging options for those who want to stay close to the best saltwater fishing spots. Here are some recommended places to stay when saltwater fishing in Molokai Hawaii:

1. Hotel Molokai: Located on the southern coast of Molokai, Hotel Molokai offers comfortable accommodations in a tropical setting. It’s just a short drive away from some of the island’s best fishing spots, including the Molokai Reef and the Kalohi Channel.
2. Castle Molokai Shores: Castle Molokai Shores offers oceanfront condos with fully-equipped kitchens and living areas. It’s located on the eastern coast of Molokai, just a short drive from fishing spots like Kaunakakai Harbor and the Moomomi Coastline.
3. Molokai Vacation Properties: Molokai Vacation Properties offers a variety of vacation rental homes and condos throughout the island. Many of these properties are located near great fishing spots like the Waikolu Valley and the Kalaupapa Peninsula.
4. Ake’s Place: Ake’s Place is a rustic bed and breakfast located on the western coast of Molokai. It’s situated near some of the island’s best fishing spots, including Papohaku Beach and the Halawa Valley.
5. Molokai Shores: Molokai Shores offers oceanfront condos with stunning views of the ocean and nearby mountains. It’s located on the southern coast of Molokai, just a short drive from popular fishing spots like the Kawela Bay and the Kepuhi Bay.

Expert Tips and Tricks for Successful Saltwater Fishing in Molokai Hawaii

If you’re planning a saltwater fishing trip in Molokai Hawaii, here are some expert tips and tricks that can help you be more successful:

1. Choose the right fishing gear: When fishing in Molokai Hawaii, it’s important to choose the right gear for the type of fish you’re targeting. Some common gear includes spinning reels, braided line, and fluorocarbon leaders. Be sure to also have a variety of lures and bait on hand to match the fish’s feeding habits.
2. Know the tides: The tides can have a big impact on saltwater fishing in Molokai Hawaii. Fish are often more active during high tide, so plan your fishing trips accordingly. You can check tide charts online or through a local fishing shop.
3. Look for structure: Fish are often attracted to structure like reefs, rocks, and drop-offs. When fishing in Molokai Hawaii, pay attention to the underwater terrain and target areas with structure to increase your chances of catching fish.
4. Be patient: Saltwater fishing in Molokai Hawaii can require patience, as fish can be unpredictable and take time to bite. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch anything right away. Stay persistent and keep trying different techniques and locations.
5. Respect the environment: When fishing in Molokai Hawaii, it’s important to respect the environment and the fish populations. Follow catch and release guidelines when appropriate, and avoid fishing in protected areas.
6. Get advice from locals: If you’re not familiar with saltwater fishing in Molokai Hawaii, consider seeking advice from locals or hiring a fishing guide. They can provide valuable insight into the best fishing spots, techniques, and gear to use.

Conclusion

Molokai Hawaii is a great destination for saltwater fishing, with plenty of fish species and beautiful locations to explore. By using the expert tips and resources available, you can plan a successful fishing trip to Molokai Hawaii and enjoy all that this stunning island has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, there are plenty of opportunities to catch fish and create unforgettable memories. Remember to always respect the environment and fish populations, follow local fishing regulations, and have fun on your saltwater fishing adventure in Molokai Hawaii!