November 15, 2022

Salt Water Fishing Vs. Fresh Water Fishing in Hawaii

The volcanic archipelago of Hawaii is a paradise for anglers. There are countless numbers of big game fish to catch from shore, the reef, and deep at sea – and veteran fishing captains know where the bite is strong depending on the season. Salt water fishing takes center stage on Maui. While small ponds, streams, and lakes dot the archipelago, they can be difficult to access, making freshwater fishing options limited.

Freshwater Fishing in Hawaii

A fishing license is required for freshwater fishing in the Aloha State. The 400-acre Wahiawa Reservoir, also known as Wilson Lake, is the primary place to fish for freshwater species on Oahu. The reservoir is stocked with hard-fighting peacock bass, channel catfish, bluegill, tilapia, large and small mouth bass, as well as snakehead and red devils. The drier summer months of April through October are the best time to fish for bass in this massive lake. Most people rent a boat or kayak to fish the lake, since the banks are particularly steep with limited access, though limited shoreline fishing is available. You can also cast a line for freshwater fish in Nuuanu Reservoir, and some fisherman have caught trout in the streams around Koke’e in Kauai.

Salt Water Fishing

Saltwater fishing for big game fish in Maui and the other islands is what Hawaii is renowned for. Several championship fishing tournaments are held each year, and there are plenty of opportunities for everyone – from first-timers to veteran anglers – to reel in a prize catch. As of now, visitors don’t need to purchase a license for recreational salt water fishing, whether shore casting from the beach or deep sea fishing on a charter. Marlin, which can tip the scales at more than 2,000 pounds, are some of the feistiest of big game fish. Depending on the season, a fishing expedition can land wahoo, dorado, and yellow fin tuna.

Kayak fishing in the scenic bays and rocky inlets has become popular, too. It’s a thrilling way to explore nature while trolling for your dinner.

Polarized Sunglasses for Fishing

Whether targeting peacock bass or a record-breaking blue marlin, the Hawaiian sun can be brutal. Eliminate glare and protecting your eyes from damaging UV radiation with fishing sunglasses from Maui Jim. Our innovative PolarizedPlus2® lens offer more than broad-spectrum protection. They promise crisp, high-contrast views for a better and more enjoyable fishing experience. Our polarized sunglasses reduce eye strain and enhance your view in any weather condition.

Recommended Sunglass Lens Color for Fishing

We know that no matter what fish you’re after, you need a sunglass that is up for the task and lens color can make a big difference. Maui Jim’s HCL Bronze is always a good choice. It is dark enough for bright days, and works great on overcast, cloudy days too. HCL Bronze provides a high level of contrast, meaning you’ll be provided excellent depth of vision to make that perfect cast. And with a variety of mirror options, you’ll be able to find just the right look in any frame.