Traditional Hawaiian fishing scene with conservation message - sustainable practices

The Pono Angler

Sustainability and the "Catch and Cook" Experience

Kalani Miller, Big Island sustainable fishing advocate

Part VI of Big Island Fishing Guide

The Pono Angler: Sustainability and the "Catch and Cook" Experience

In Hawaiʻi, fishing is more than just a hobby; it's a deep cultural practice rooted in respect for the ocean. We have a concept called fishing with pono, which means fishing in a way that is right, moral, and sustainable. It's about understanding our role in the ecosystem and ensuring that these precious resources are here for generations to come. This means taking only what you need, respecting regulations, and practicing mālama i ke kai—caring for the ocean.

The Importance of Tag & Release

A key part of the modern conservation ethic in Kona, especially for big-game fishing, is the practice of tag and release. For billfish like blue marlin, this is the standard for nearly all responsible charters. Instead of boating every fish, large marlin are carefully brought alongside the boat, a scientific tag is placed to help researchers study their migration and population health, and then they are revived and released.

Conservation Success Story

This practice, championed by tournaments like the HIBT, allows anglers to experience the thrill of the catch while ensuring the survival of these magnificent breeding-age fish. The Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament was one of the first major tournaments to embrace scientific research, with scientists joining annually since 1963, and it pioneered the tag-and-release system that is now a global standard for billfish conservation.

From Boat to Bowl: The Ultimate Souvenir

There is no better way to cap off a successful day of fishing than by eating your own fresh catch. It's the ultimate boat-to-table experience and a memory you won't soon forget. While many charters will fillet a portion of your edible catch (like mahi-mahi, ono, or smaller tuna) for you, finding a restaurant that will cook it for you can be a challenge. This is one of the best-kept secrets for visiting anglers.

Here are my recommendations for "catch and cook" options in Kona:

✅ Confirmed Catch & Cook

Bite Me Fish Market Bar & Grill is located right at Honokohau Harbor, where the fishing charters dock. They explicitly advertise that they will "prepare and cook your fresh catch" for you, making it the most convenient and reliable option. You can step right off your boat and hand your fillets to the chef.

Important: Waze and other sources indicate this location may be closed, so it is imperative to call ahead at (808) 936-3442 to confirm they are operating and offering the service.

📞 Likely Candidates (Call Ahead)

Several other fantastic seafood restaurants in Kona are known for their commitment to fresh, sourced fish. While they may not formally advertise a "catch and cook" service, they are your best bet for making a special request. Always call the restaurant in advance to speak with the chef or manager, explain what you have, and ask if they can prepare it for you.

Huggo's

A Kona institution since 1969, located right on the water. They are famous for their fresh fish delivered daily by fishermen.

The Fish Hopper

Another waterfront favorite with a stellar reputation for fresh seafood, located directly across from the Kailua Pier.

Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill

Known for their "boat to bowl" philosophy and award-winning poke, they are deeply connected to the fishing community.

Beyond the Bite: Island-Wide Adventures

After an exhilarating day battling fish on the Kona coast, you might be looking for a different kind of thrill, or perhaps a change of pace. If your Hawaiian vacation includes a stop on the island of Oʻahu, the adventure doesn't have to end.

🌿 Coral Crater Adventure Park

For those still craving an adrenaline rush, the Coral Crater Adventure Park offers a fantastic array of activities. You can soar through the jungle on their zipline courses, kick up some dirt on an ATV tour, or test your limits on their impressive Adventure Tower, which includes a 50-foot freefall plunge.

Perfect for: Experiencing the islands' rugged terrain from a different perspective

⚓ Pearl Harbor

To truly appreciate a complete Hawaiian vacation, it's essential to balance adventure with history. A visit to Pearl Harbor on Oʻahu is a profound and moving experience that connects you to the deep history of the islands and the nation.

Includes: USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, and comprehensive historical exhibits

Kalani's Final Cast

The pull of Kona's tides is strong. It's a place that gets into your blood, whether you're a visitor here for a week or someone who has spent a lifetime on its shores. To help you make the most of your time, here are my thoughts on a "perfect day" of fishing, tailored to what you're looking for.

🎣 For the Serious Angler

Wake up before the sun, grab a strong Kona coffee, and head to Honokohau Harbor for a full-day, 8-hour private charter. You're here for one reason: to chase that grander. Spend the day working the deep ledges with a top-tier crew. Whether you tag and release a monster blue or boat a beautiful 40-pound ono, the experience of hunting in these legendary waters is the real prize. Afterward, take a few fillets of your edible catch to a restaurant and have them cook it up for you. That, my friend, is a perfect day.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For the Family

Sleep in a little, enjoy a relaxed breakfast, then take the kids to a calm, sandy spot like Anaehoʻomalu Bay (A-Bay) for a couple of hours of easy shore fishing. Pack some snacks and drinks. The goal isn't to catch a trophy; it's to see the excitement on your child's face when they feel that first tug on the line. After an hour or two, put the rods away, grab some snorkel gear, and explore the vibrant reef in the very same bay. It's a day focused on making memories together, not just catching fish.

The ocean gives us so much—food, fun, a way of life, and a connection to something much bigger than ourselves. When you fish here, remember to give back with respect. Mālama i ke kai—care for the ocean—and it will always care for you.

Aloha.