Spear Fishing in Oahu

The bluefin trevally is just one of the fish species you'll encounter in Oahu.

When it comes to spear fishing in Oahu, there are plenty of fish to be caught and a bevy of fisherman-friendly spots to choose from. With the right tools and helpful insight, your next fishing adventure could earn you a few bragging rights as well.

History

Since the time of the ancient Hawaiians, fishing has long been a way of life and even considered an ancient art. In addition to other creative methods of catching fish, ancient Hawaiians were also adept at spear fishing. Today, the simple spear fishing tools from long ago are still used along with the more modern speargun.

Species of Fish

The types of fish you can catch by spear fishing in Oahu include reef fish such as trevally, goatfish and parrotfish. In addition, bluewater spear fishing--fishing in deeper water--puts you in sight of big game fish such as amberjack, tuna and wahoo.

Warning

Despite Oahu's easy accessibility to the reef and ocean, not all areas of Oahu allow spear fishing. According to the Pacific Fisheries Coalition website, "Natural Area Reserves, wildlife sanctuaries and other reserves and refuges are closed to all extractive types of fishing and gathering..." Places such as Coconut Island belong to the Hawaii Marine Laboratory Refuge and prohibit spear fishing.

References

• Hawaii Alive: Fishing Traditions
• The Pacific Fisheries Coalition: Marine Protected Areas
• Spearfishing Travel: Oahu, Hawaii