Kona Sunset Fishing Charter: 4-Hour Private Sportfishing Off Kailua-Kona
Spend four focused hours chasing marlin, tuna, wahoo and mahi mahi off Kailua-Kona aboard a 33-foot sportfisher. This private sunset charter pairs compact fishing time with a high chance of big pelagic action near the steep Kona shelf.
The Experience
Before You Go
Take motion-sickness prevention
Evenings can be calm but roll can start offshore — take pills or use patches at least an hour before departure if you’re prone to seasickness.
Dress in layers
Sunset temps and ocean spray mean a light windproof jacket over a moisture-wicking base layer keeps you comfortable as light fades.
Bring a small dry bag
Keep phones, snacks, and a spare shirt in a waterproof pouch — gear gets wet fast on the rail during hookups.
Clarify catch handling and limits
Ask the crew whether they clean fish and which species are legal to keep to avoid surprises at landing.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Watch for spinner dolphins ahead of the boat — they often indicate bait schools.
- •If time allows, ask the captain to drift along a lava shelf edge where drop-offs concentrate pelagics.
Wildlife
- •Spinner dolphins
- •Hawaiian green sea turtles (from a distance)
Conservation Note
Follow local bag limits and the crew’s guidance on handling bycatch; many operators practice circle hooks and quick-release for billfish to reduce mortality.
Kona’s deep-sea reputation grew from its unique bathymetry and decades of sportfishing; historic marlin catches helped build a global angling lore around the town.
What to Bring
Non-slip deck shoesEssential
Provide secure footing on wet, moving decks.
Windproof shellEssential
Blocks spray and evening trade-wind chill as the sun sets.
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Cuts glare so you can spot surface activity and protect eyes from reflected UV.
Seasickness medication or patchEssential
Prevents nausea on offshore swells so you can fish the whole trip.
Common Questions
How many anglers fit on the boat?
The sportfisher carries up to six passengers comfortably for private charters.
Are rods, tackle, and bait provided?
Yes — the charter supplies rods, reels, tackle, and typically live or prepared bait as needed.
Will the crew clean and bag my catch?
Most Kona charters will clean and fillet accepted fish; confirm ahead whether they will also box or ice fish for transport.
What species are most likely at sunset?
On Maui’s neighbor Big Island waters you’ll commonly target mahi mahi, wahoo, and yellowfin tuna; blue marlin and other billfish are possible year-round near Kona’s deep shelf.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: ability to stand and brace for long bouts, lift a fish or gear up to ~20–30 lb intermittently.
Ready to Explore Kailua-Kona?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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