How far do we go out?
We usually fish 3-5 miles off shore on average charter. This is how we are able to do a half day trip. But some time’s we do go further off shore to the FAD’s or porpoise schools that are holding fish. It’s not how far but more up and down the coast. We follow fathom curves that parallel the Big Island coast. The Big Island is the structure that we fish.
Do we need a fish license?
No
What about sea sickness?
If your prone to motion sickness you can take Dramamine or Bonine. You can take one the night before when you go to bed and once again in the morning when you wake up. If you do get sick once you’re on the water the best cure is to lay down and fall asleep. Once you wake up you most likely will feel better. But if not we can always take you in. We will not keep you out on the water if you do not feel good.
What do we bring?
Bring what you want to eat, drink, sun block and camera. It’s better to use the lotion sun block instead of the spray. Spray seems to get all over the boat and in to the wax. If you want to use the spray we will have you apply it on the dock before you get on the boat.
What do we wear?
Try not to where any thing that will harm the boat, any shoes that will mark the boat or any belts or clothes that will scratch the paint. Boat is very nice and we try our best to keep it looking good for you with your help. Most of the time shorts and t-shirts is fine. Also bring sun glasses and hat to help protect you from the sun. The average temperature in Hawaii is 80 degrees year round.
What are we fishing for?
In Kona you are fishing for all the pelagic fish – blue marlin, stripe marlin, spear fish, mahi mahi, ono and ahi tuna year round. We use a variety of lures that we troll at 8 knots to catch all these fish or we use live bait.
How long does it take to catch a marlin?
The average size marlin is around 150 pounds and usually take 10-20 minutes. There has been some fights that last over 8 hours or long in to the night and they end up weighing over 1,000 pounds. Best to try and catch them quick so when you release them they have the best chance of survival.
Do you release the marlin or keep them?
We like to try and release all the blue marlin and other billfish but if they come up dead or really injured and will not survive then we will keep them. All the marlin we take will be used and not wasted. Most of the marlin is dried, smoked or used as poki. We will keep one every now and then upon request. But it really is too much meat to deal with and not the best eating fish.
What if we just want to catch anything or action?
When trolling lures you have a great opportunity to catch all the pelagic fish especially dinner (mahi, ono, spearfish and tuna). People that just want to catch lots of fish the smaller yellow fin tuna and skipjack tuna are great way to get action on light tackle. Plus the yellow fin are great to eat. If the smaller schooling tuna are not around then sometimes we will drop a jig to the bottom and catch amberjack or trevally. Have to remember it’s called fishing not catching. We usually can catch something but every now and then it does happen where we don’t.
We just want to catch something to eat such as mahi mahi, ono and tuna?
In the spring and summer months you can really target the ono by trolling lures in 50 fathoms of water but also catch in the deep or around floating debris. The mahi mahi you can catch trolling in the deep or in 50 fathoms of water but can really catch them good around the FAD’s or floating debris when the conditions are right. The big tuna can also be caught trolling but its best to find a porpoise school and use the green stick or a live bait.
Can we buy live bait like in Mexico or Florida?
No you cannot buy live bait in Kona. We catch our own when we can. Have to remember we are in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and do not have the reef systems or the structure that holds the bait like the mainland. Lot of the times during the year we will try and catch our own mackerel or smaller tuna and use them for live bait when we have the opportunity.
How much do we tip?
The captain and crew split the tips and usually get 20% on average.
Can we keep are catch?
Yes, the crew will fillet your fish for you. Usually most customers take enough fish to enjoy on their vacation. If you don’t want the fish or there is more than you will eat the crews will sell the fish for extra income. Hawaii is one of the only states where charter boats can sell their catch.
What if we have nowhere to cook our fish?
You can take your fish down to Captain Chuck's parents restaurants. Pancho and Lefty’s will be happy to cook your catch for you. You will receive 20% off your fish dishes. Pancho and Lefty’s is located in town at 75-5719 Alii Drive in Kailua-Kona.
Is there any packaging and shipping facility’s for us to freeze and ship our fish?There is no facilities in Kona that will package and ship your fish. Hawaii is not like Alaska, traditionally in Hawaii the charter boats keep and sell the catch but we will fillet your fish to enjoy on vacation.
Is there any packaging and shipping facility’s for us to freeze and ship our fish?There is no facilities in Kona that will package and ship your fish. Hawaii is not like Alaska, traditionally in Hawaii the charter boats keep and sell the catch but we will fillet your fish to enjoy on vacation.
Can we bring more than 6 people?
No, we are what the coast guard calls a 6 pack boat. Which means 6 passengers plus captain and crew. Does not matter the age of the passengers. If you have more than 6 people I can arrange to get my brothers boat the Go Get Em.
What if we don’t have 6 people?
Price is the same for 1 person or 6 people. You are renting the boat not per person fee.
Do you require a 48 hour cancellation notice?
Yes we do require a 48 cancellation notice and you will receive a 100% refund. If you cancel with in the 48 hours you may be charged up to 50% of the charter price.