Fish Maui

Maui sport fishing / trolling is typically done by dragging artificial lures at or below the surface as the boat cruises at roughly 8 to 10 knots. This seems pretty fast to first-timers but trusts me, the aquatic species caught off Maui are after fast-moving prey. Some boats also use various combinations of live bait – often seen on the way out – dead bait and strip bait. Trolling speeds vary depending on weather/sea conditions and the trick being used. The fishing rods are placed in rod holders, and the lines set at different distances behind the boat held apart by outriggers to avoid tangling.

Fish commonly caught on a Maui sportfishing charter include mahi-mahi (dorado), ono (wahoo), ahi (yellowfin tuna), striped and blue marlin. There are also several smaller tuna and billfish boats commonly land. These fish swim quickly – some over 30 mph. They all hit essentially the same lures, so there is minimal ‘targeting” of species out there. But, of course, captains do have their preferences!

The odds of hooking up to one of these larger game fish are lower than catching bottom fish, but the potential rewards are spectacular. So whether you decide to share a boat with others or are lucky enough to charter a boat privately, an offshore trolling trip gives you a chance at that “fish of a lifetime”.