These fierce fighting fish is the "holy grail" of reef and shore fishing in Hawaii. Elusive and fast they are up for the battle! Often times you will not see the Ulua out and about, since their usual stomping grounds are in deep holes and caves. These guys need to be 2lbs to harvest. Make sure your shot is true and bring your "A" game if you want to land one of these bad boys! Hanapa'a!
The Roi was introduced from French Polynesia in 1956, by the state of Hawaii. The goal was to propagate an additional food source in the Hawaiian islands. It didn't work. After multiple cases of ciguatera poisoning it was determined that the Roi was the culprit. He has been in the sights of "silent hunters" ever since. A voracious predator that is believed to be responsible for eating hundreds of reef fish per year, this guy is public enemy number 1! No size limits here, this buggah is wanted dead or alive.
The Roi is the only fish that we at Spearfish Maui harvest from the ocean and do not consume due to high rates of ciguatera occurrence. These guys provide day after day of target practice and we ship fish that are over 1 lb to a research team at U of H. The team does research on the Roi to determine if there is ciguatera present, record the area where the fish was harvested and work to develop a anti-toxin for ciguatera poisoning.
Omilu (Blue Fin Trevelly)
We at Spearfish Maui strongly believe in the conservation of our delicate ecosystem of reef and reef fish. That being said, there are fish that we target and fish that we do not. Take some time to study up on the target species so when you are in the water you will be able to easily identify and get a shot off.
The Uku is a delicious fish that likes to hang out in a little bit deeper water. They respond well to palu (chum) and often can be found a bit closer to shore after moon cycles. These guys need to be 2lbs to harvest. Keep your eyes peeled when the chum is in the water and be ready to dive deep!
Moano (Many Bar Goatfish)
Often seen flicking around in the sand with their "whiskers," which are used to find small shrimp and other snacks. These guys respond well to flashy things and are very curious by nature. The trick here is finding them big enough to harvest! Minimum size is 8 inches.
Weke (Yellow Fin Goatfish)
Often seen in small schools, these are great tasting goatfish! They are somewhat skiddish and usually scatter if "dive bombed." The trick with these guys is to put a rock or coral head between you and the fish and wait for them to come to you. Patience is key and bottom time will result in a nice tasting fish on the sharp end of your spear!
Minimum size 8"
Moana Kali (Blue Goatfish)
Usually seen in schools of 2-4 fish, these fish are quick to head the other way when they see the pointy end of a spearshaft. Float and watch where they are headed and try to predict a path, grab a deep breath and play the waiting game. Dust some sand to make 'em think it's lunchtime! Use your best of judgement when hunting these guys, there are not too many left on our reefs!
Must be 12" to harvest!
The milkfish is a good fighter and they can grow to around 5 feet! Shiny silver with a deep fork tail, these fish are common in sandy areas, reefs and in bays. Curious by nature, they will usually stop by to check you out for a moment, now's your chance! Make sure your shot is behind the very thick gill plate and hold on tight, a 30lb Awa is a strong fighter!
Must be 12" to harvest.
Toau is considered an invasive species. The good news is there is no minimum size regulations and they are great eating! Generally found near rocks, holes and caves, these fish are fast and fairly skiddish. Using some good camouflage, such as a coral head or some reef should payoff with a nice shot! Typically they hang out in schools so multiple shots on fish is common.....