Kona, Hawaii, shines brightly as a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts. The picturesque landscapes and rich marine life make it an ideal location whether you are an experienced angler or casting your first line. From shimmering shores to deep ocean waters, this guide will take you through 25 of the best fishing spots in Kona, Hawaii. Get ready to discover the incredible fish waiting to be caught!

Shore Fishing

1. Kailua Pier

Kailua Pier is a beloved spot for shore fishing. Anglers appreciate its easy access and stunning sunset views. Fish species caught here include snapper and jack. Many anglers report catching snapper that weigh upwards of 10 pounds!

2. Honokohau Harbor Shore

At Honokohau Harbor, families and novice anglers can enjoy fantastic shore fishing. The calm waters are ideal for introducing kids to the sport. Common catches include various reef fish and the occasional larger species. The harbor hosts species like the Hinalea, which can grow to around 36 inches.

3. Keauhou Bay

Keauhou Bay is not just beautiful; it is known for an abundance of fish. Expect to hook yellowfin tuna and mahi-mahi here. The bay’s clear waters provide a stunning backdrop, and many anglers report successful catches exceeding 20 pounds.

4. Kahaluu Beach

Kahaluu Beach is famous for its vibrant snorkeling scene, but fishing is also exceptional. Here, anglers can catch various reef fish. Local stories often mention successful catches of parrotfish, which can weigh around 3 to 5 pounds.

5. Old Kona Airport Beach

Old Kona Airport Beach is a hidden gem. Less crowded than other spots, it provides a tranquil fishing experience. Fish like bonefish and barracuda are common. Anglers often share that barracuda have been caught weighing up to 15 pounds.

Pier & Harbor Fishing

6. Kailua-Kona Pier

Kailua-Kona Pier buzzes with fishing activity. Ample space allows many anglers to cast lines, with catches including snapper, grouper, and even the elusive opakapaka. Many boast of landings of grouper weighing over 20 pounds.

7. Honokohau Harbor Pier

Honokohau Harbor Pier is excellent for those seeking larger species in deeper waters. Expect catches that can include mahi-mahi and yellowtail. Many anglers report successful fishing days, with catches often exceeding 15 pounds.

8. Keauhou Bay Pier

Keauhou Bay Pier offers a serene environment for fishing. The well-maintained pier leads to deeper waters, attracting larger fish like marlin. Successful anglers frequently share tales of marlin weighing over 100 pounds.

9. Kona Marina Jetty

Kona Marina Jetty provides a prime location for various fish species. Anglers often catch snapper, triggerfish, and sometimes wahoo, with wahoo catches frequently reaching 30 pounds.

10. Kahalu’u Pier

Kahalu’u Pier combines scenic views with excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers can catch local fish while enjoying breathtaking sunsets. Reports indicate catch sizes averaging 5 to 10 pounds.

Offshore / Deep Sea Fishing

11. Kona Coast Deep Drop-Offs

The Kona Coast features deep drop-offs, perfect for adventurous offshore fishing. Expect to reel in big game fish such as marlin and tuna. Successful fishing trips often yield catches exceeding 100 pounds!

12. 30-Mile Bank

The 30-Mile Bank attracts thrill-seekers. Boats heading out to these deep waters often return with mahi-mahi and wahoo, both of which can weigh in at 30 to 50 pounds.

13. 40-Mile Bank

This offshore hotspot delivers bountiful catch experiences. Anglers often head to the 40-Mile Bank for ahi (yellowfin tuna) and mahi-mahi, with substantial sizes reported at 50 pounds or more.

14. North Kona Offshore

North Kona Offshore is a haven for seasoned anglers eager to catch larger fish. Expectations here include catching marlin and tuna, often weighing in at 60 pounds or greater.

15. South Kona Offshore

South Kona Offshore invites anglers to catch a diverse array of fish, including tuna and marlin. Anglers often report successful outings, reeling in fish that can weigh upwards of 100 pounds.

Reef & Inshore Boat Fishing

16. Kealakekua Bay

Fishing at Kealakekua Bay allows anglers to experience vibrant marine life. Expect to catch various reef fish, including the colorful convict tang and butterflyfish. Many note sizes often reach around 5 pounds.

17. Honaunau Bay

Honaunau Bay is perfect for both fishing and snorkeling. Fish such as snapper and goatfish are commonly caught here, often weighing around 3 to 6 pounds.

18. Kahaluu Reef

Kahaluu Reef boasts rich biodiversity. Anglers frequently catch species like the surgeonfish and the parrotfish, with sizes averaging between 1 and 5 pounds.

19. Makalawena Beach Waters

Makalawena Beach offers a secluded experience for anglers. Expect to catch small game fish in this area, with weights ranging from 1 to 8 pounds.

20. South Point Reef

At South Point Reef, hidden treasures await for anglers. The area is known for diverse fish populations, often catching species like the triggerfish and damselfish, typically weighing 1 to 3 pounds.

Spearfishing & Snorkel Fishing

21. Kealakekua Bay Reefs

The reefs in Kealakekua Bay are perfect for spearfishing and snorkeling. The lively marine life and clear waters make it easy to catch fish like triggerfish and parrotfish.

22. Two Step Reefs

Two Step Reefs attract spearfishers and snorkelers alike with excellent visibility. Expect to catch good-sized mojo and surgeonfish.

23. Honokohau Reefs

Honokohau Reefs offer a unique spearfishing experience. The rich ecosystem supports many fish species, providing solid catch opportunities.

24. Kahalu’u Reefs

Kahalu’u Reefs are exceptional for divers and spearfishers. Expect vibrant marine life and excellent visibility, making it a prime spot to catch local varieties.

25. Makalawena Reefs

Makalawena Reefs shine brightly with marine diversity. Here, spearfishers can easily catch several species while enjoying the exceptional underwater scenery.

Kona, Hawaii, offers fishing opportunities that cater to all preferences. Whether you seek shore fishing, pier fishing, deep-sea expeditions, or explorations of the reefs, the fishing spots in Kona promise unforgettable experiences.

So gather your fishing gear, head to these incredible spots, and make memories that will last a lifetime!