Hawaii is more than just a sanctuary for tourists who enjoy the sun and the sea - it is home to waters teeming with different kinds of marlin. Yes, we’re talking about those photogenic sea predators that often grace magazines and relaxation hubs of the rich.
Anglers in Hawaii target four types of marlins: (1) Blue, (2) Striped, (3) Black and (4) Spearfish. These fishes are available to catch all-year-round, primarily because of the region’s ideal aquatic temperature that always falls between 72 to 80 degrees. Apparently, it is reported to be the only place in the world where a Marlin weighing over 1,000 pounds is always caught, proving its hospitable oceanography for these swimmers.
Where to Fish in Hawaii
Kailua-Kona is a promising spot for marlin-seekers. In July 2015, a blue marlin weighing 1,368 pounds was caught off the coast of Kailua-Kona. It is the eighth-largest blue marlin ever caught in Hawaii, next to the 1,376-pounder caught in 1982. ESPN even called it “more like a whale” and the “Shaquille O'Neal” of its kind. The all-time record for the biggest marlin goes to the gargantuan “Choy’s Monster,” which weighed 1,805 pounds.
Marlin fishing in Kona is usually based from the Honokohau Harbor. Other than Hawaii, fishing charters for marlins are also common in Mexico and Panama. Blue marlin in Hawaii are generally caught by rod and wheel. Alternative destinations include Australia, Bermuda, Brazil, Cape Verde, Kenya, Mexico, Mozambique, Portugal and Puerto Rico.
Blue marlin is the largest and the most tropical of all marlins, seldom seen in shallow areas. These swimmers prefer blue, oceanic waters, much like its striped sibling. They come at a usual length of 11 feet, feeding on tunas and other pelagic fishes. Interestingly, all male species are below 300 pounds. Under normal conditions, they are said to live up to 15 years - well-deserved for an ocean celebrity.
The Challenge in Fishing Marlins
There are plenty of ways to catch marlins, one of which is to lure them to the boat. Marlins are very athletic; the striped swimmer is known to be the second-fastest fish in the world, next to sailfish, with a speed of about 50 miles per hour. On top of being swift creatures, they are highly-predatory, so expect some challenge as they fight for their life. Blue marlins are known to tire faster than other marlins, but they dive deeper and are generally powerful, so it is vital to recognize them at the moment’s notice: (1) they have a pointed front dorsal fin shorter than its body depth; (2) they have pectoral fins that can be folded against the body; (3) they have a cylindrical figure and of course, (4) they have a cobalt blue appearance that fades to white and are complemented by pale blue stripes.
In order to ensure successful marlin fishing, one should have the right equipment ready on his boat. EatMyTackle.com offers plenty of tools, accessories, clothing and more products designed to serve you on your saltwater fishing spree. The 100 - 120 Pound Blue Marlin Tournament Edition Offshore Fishing Rod is a topseller, perfect for your Hawaiian escapade.
Are you ready to catch some marlins?
