Big Island Fishing Calendar

Your Complete Guide to Seasonal Fishing on the Big Island

Part VII of Big Island Fishing Guide

Big Island Fishing Calendar

While you can catch big fish in Kona any day of the year, there are definite peak seasons for certain species. Planning your trip around these windows can increase your chances of targeting your desired catch.

Peak Season Fish

🎣

Blue Marlin

Peak: May - September

The ultimate prize fish. Summer months bring the largest concentrations and biggest fish. Females are most active during spawning season.

🗡️

Striped Marlin

Peak: Jan-Mar, Nov-Dec

Cooler months bring schools of striped marlin. Multiple hookups possible when schools are present.

🏹

Shortbill Spearfish

Peak: Jan-Mar, Nov-Dec

Abundant during winter months. Great for anglers wanting billfish action with higher success rates.

🔥

Ahi (Yellowfin Tuna)

Peak: May - September

Summer brings the largest schools and biggest fish. Perfect water temperatures for feeding activity.

🌈

Mahi-mahi

Peak: Jan-May, Nov-Dec

Cooler months bring schools following floating debris and FADs. Best action during winter/spring.

⚡

Ono (Wahoo)

Peak: May - September

Summer months bring the fastest fish in the sea. High-speed trolling produces best results.

Month-by-Month Fishing Guide

🌸 Spring (March - May)

Prime Species:

• Mahi-mahi (excellent)
• Striped Marlin (good)
• Shortbill Spearfish (good)
• Blue Marlin (fair)

Conditions:

• Transitioning weather patterns
• Increasing water temperatures
• Good overall fishing conditions
• Mahi-mahi schools following debris

☀️ Summer (June - August)

Prime Species:

• Blue Marlin (excellent)
• Ahi/Yellowfin Tuna (excellent)
• Ono/Wahoo (excellent)
• Spearfish (good)

Conditions:

• Peak water temperatures
• Calmest sea conditions
• Longest daylight hours
• Best overall fishing season

🍂 Fall (September - November)

Prime Species:

• Blue Marlin (good)
• Ahi/Yellowfin Tuna (good)
• Mahi-mahi (increasing)
• Striped Marlin (returning)

Conditions:

• Cooling water temperatures
• Transitional weather patterns
• Good fishing continues
• Preparation for winter species

❄️ Winter (December - February)

Prime Species:

• Striped Marlin (excellent)
• Shortbill Spearfish (excellent)
• Mahi-mahi (excellent)
• Blue Marlin (fair)

Conditions:

• Coolest water temperatures
• More variable weather
• Excellent for smaller billfish
• Great for consistent action

Weather and Ocean Conditions

🌊 Trade Wind Season (April-October)

• Consistent northeast trade winds
• Kona coast remains protected and calm
• Best overall weather conditions
• Ideal for all types of fishing
• Peak tourist season

🌧️ Kona Season (November-March)

• Variable wind patterns
• Occasional southerly "Kona winds"
• More rainfall and cloud cover
• Can affect fishing conditions
• Generally still fishable most days

Ready to Plan Your Big Island Fishing Adventure?

You now have everything you need to plan the perfect fishing trip to the Big Island. From understanding the science to choosing the right charter, you're ready to experience Kona's legendary waters.

Return to Fishing Guide