Fishing in Hawai'i
Learn about licenses, rules, seasons, and responsible fishing.
Tides and Hawai’i Moon
What type of fishing are you interested in?
Non-Commercial Fishing
Commercial Fishing
Non-Commercial Fishing
Non-commercial fishing connects people to Hawaiʻi’s ocean traditions while promoting sustainable harvests and respect for marine life.
Non-Commercial Fishing Permits
Required for visitors who want to fish in Hawaiʻi’s marine waters for recreation.
Allows the use of lay nets under specific regulations to protect marine life and traditions.
Needed to catch sport fish in Hawaiʻi’s lakes, streams, and other freshwater areas.
Required for vessels catching Deep 7 bottomfish species.
Other Non-Commercial Fishing Permits?
Non-Commercial
Fishing Regulations
Know Hawaiʻi’s fishing rules — limits, sizes, and zones. Responsible fishing protects marine life and sustains our ocean.
Residents vs Non-Residents
Locals fish year-round; visitors can get short-term licenses. Follow Hawaiʻi’s fishing traditions and rules to enjoy the ocean responsibly.
Residents
Non-residents
Biggest Catches in Hawai‘i
Here, records are more than numbers — they’re milestones in Hawai‘i’s fishing legacy, honoring the dedication, skill, and respect for the ocean that define every local angler. Each record tells a story of perseverance and connection to these island waters.
Highlights:
180+ total records verified
90+ unique species recorded
Oldest record: 1957
Heaviest fish: 1805 lbs Blue Marlin (Kona)
Commercial Fishing
Commercial fishing sustains Hawaiʻi’s economy and seafood industry, providing fresh, local catch. Licensed fishers must follow gear, season, and reporting rules to protect ocean health.
Commercial Fishing Permits
Required to catch and sell marine resources for commercial purposes.
Authorizes possession of imported species that are restricted in Hawai’i.
Required for businesses to buy marine resources from licensed fishers.
Required for vessels catching Deep 7 bottomfish species.
Other Commercial Fishing Permits?
Commercial
Fishing Regulations
Commercial fishers must report all catches, sell only legal-sized fish, and avoid protected areas to help sustain Hawaiʻi’s ocean resources.
Marine Managed Areas
Discover how Hawai‘i protects its vibrant marine ecosystems through special conservation areas that preserve ocean life for future generations.
