Updated: Historical report for the week of October 8, 2026 (original publication date preserved; reorganized October 29, 2026) · Next update: None. This archived week will not be updated again; for current conditions, read the latest Hawaii fishing report.
This Hawaii fishing report covers the week of October 8, 2026, a fine fall stretch for fishing in the islands. Yellowfin tuna (ahi) were the main target off the Kona coast, with fish around the FADs and the ledges, which made offshore structure the dominant pattern of the week. Blue marlin were active, mahi held around floating debris, and the shore fishing was productive for papio. A new moon that weekend was expected to help the night fishing.
What’s Hitting
Yellowfin tuna (ahi) were the main target off the Kona coast, with fish around the FADs and the ledges. Mahi were around the floating debris and FADs, blue marlin were active in the Kona waters, and ono (wahoo) were possible.
Shore anglers could catch papio (juvenile jacks), omilu and ulua.
Where to Find Them
The Kona coast off Honokohau Harbor was the hub for offshore fishing. Fish aggregating devices (FADs) are anchored buoys that attract small fish, which in turn draw tuna and mahi. The ledges where the bottom drops off do the same by concentrating bait.
Maalaea Harbor on Maui provided access to the waters off that island, and Keehi Lagoon on Oahu provided access to the south shore. Shore fishing was good along the rocky points and the harbor walls.
Tides & Conditions
The new moon that weekend could improve the night fishing. Hawaii’s trade winds affect the sea conditions, and the leeward coasts are generally calmer because the islands block the wind.
Check the forecast and the surf, and be careful on the rocky shore.
Tackle & Tactics
Trolling lures and live baits worked offshore. Palu ahi, a chum-and-bait technique, is a Hawaiian method for ahi that uses a chum slick to hold fish near a drifting bait. From shore, use cut bait or a live bait on a sliding rig. Use a strong rod for ulua.
Fishing from shore in Hawaii requires awareness of the ocean. Wave sets can arrive without warning, and the rocky shoreline is slippery. Fish with a partner, wear non-slip footwear, and stay well back from the water’s edge on big surf days.
Local Intel This Week
Public access included Honokohau Harbor in Kona, Maalaea Harbor on Maui and Keehi Lagoon on Oahu. Haleiwa Small Boat Harbor on Oahu and Wailoa Small Boat Harbor in Hilo are other public access points. Fish were concentrating at the FADs, the ledges and the shore points.
Hawaii Division of Aquatic Resources rules apply, and some species have closed seasons. Check current state and federal regulations and seasons before keeping fish.
This Week’s Tip
Respect the local rules and customs. In Hawaii, ocean safety and local etiquette are important. Never fish alone from the shore, and check for surf warnings before heading to the rocks.
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