Fishing in Hawaii is one of our favorite pastimes passed down generation to generation from the time we learn to walk. To some its a hobby while others a passion, growing up surrounded by water it's a way of life also a favorite food for islanders. They're many recreational fish in Hawaii but the most sought after fish in Hawaii's shore casting is the elusive Ulua. Named elusive for that exact reason. Mainly a sport fish and one of the hardest fish to catch. While some catch more than others, a great number of fishermen has never caught one. It's fun yet frustrating and could be hard work depending on where you go AND can be very dangerous, considering the favorite spots are on ledges or cliffs. You will quickly realize that Ulua can be one of the hardest fish to catch but because of its size ( 10 lbs - 200 plus ), strength, and fighting ability Ulua can also be one of the most fun fish to catch. You will notice that people have other names for the fish as well. You will hear them referred to it as Papio ( when its smaller ), Omilu or Trevally, and I'm sure a few others.

For the most part on how to catch an Ulua you will find them almost anywhere there's water. They will be in shallow water, medium or deep water. They are most caught during breeding seasons as they come closer to shore yet caught year around Ulua are predators and eat almost anything they pass including their own. All fishermen have favorites as to what they believe the Ulua will bite, Tako, Nenue, Palani, Opelu, or any live fish. NOT excluding cut or frozen bait. The most commonly and easiest used bait is octopus (Tako) either bait casting or slid baiting. Tako will last a long time in the water. The downfall about using tako is its also a favorite for sting rays and turtles. And, on occasions sharks. If you don't dive for your own Tako, it could get expensive.

Another thing your going to need is quality Tackle. Anglers that go Fishing without good Tackle come back with an empty cooler! That's why you must use quality Tackle to be a successful angler. Also, you should bring the tackle that best suits your needs. Penn Newel or shimano reels are a good bet and proven strong with good results. most used are extended 4.0 to 6.0 with 60-80 lb test line and 8oz-11oz lead. the rods are to your own preferences height style color make, there's so many to choose from. don't get me wrong, I like other Fine Tackle products, If you go to Walmart or k-mart which many anglers have to save a few bucks. the selection to choose from are limited. go to a fish n Tackle Shop because they will carry gear that the larger stores don't! a plus to that is they can also give you good advice on where and how to advice and that important. I like to have different types of gear on hand. So I'm prepared for the Fish That I am after. The quality of the Line you use plays an important part. make sure the line has no spurs or cuts or you will lose your fish. Always be prepared for the big one because they hit when you least expect it. use the right size line for the right reel. I have seen anglers use 50lb test on a 30lb test Reel.This does not work well because the Reel is suited to run a max of 30lb test line. the Reels capacity is reduced , this will wear down the Reel. Mono-filament is favored by many anglers.There are many choices of Mono-filament Line. Also many anglers like Braided Line, Power-Pro and Fire (etc). Choose to your own preference and remember to choose the right size for the game your after. they're many types of Line on the market. When it comes to Mono-filament I like to use Ande or big game Tournament Line. again its a Proven line, widely used and will hold up under stress ( In my experience ) choose what best suit your Fishing needs.

You'll never know what your going to catch while fishing in the islands. You could catch a fish, crab, Mu, eel, barracuda, Palani, Nenue, sting, rays, turtles, or even tako ( octopus ) and the list goes on. There's so many different types of fish here the opportunities are endless. Alot has to do with luck experience and knowledge. Remember, if your fishing for Ulua on the cliffs or any dangerous spot, pack only what you need to reduce the weight for traveling, most prime spots need to be hiked to, your poles in one hand your backpack with all your gear and most important your cooler. NEVER FISH DANGEROUS SPOTS ALONE ! the water may be calm when you get there but in Hawaii the waves can wash you off the cliffs at any time, so be safe have fun and I hope you ( HANAPAA ) catch the big one.