Oahu, Hawaii

Fishing & Travel Destination

Oahu, “The Gathering Place”, has the highest population in the state and is the cultural center of Hawaii. More than five million people visit Oahu every year, lured by white sandy beaches, the thrill of surfing, fantastic geography, and the romance of a culture steeped in Polynesian tradition and tropical mystique. Formed by mountain ranges derived from two shield volcanoes - Koolau and Waianae - the entire island is a paradise not simply beautiful but extremely fulfilling. Lush forests and mountains host activities like driving tours, hiking, hang gliding, and camping, while the sea is a veritable playground to those who prefer to surf, dive with dolphins, snorkel with turtles and exotic fish around colorful coral reefs, or even sail alongside whales. Honolulu, the state capital, and Waikiki are the main hubs of activity where most hotels, major restaurants, shopping, and cultural establishments are located. The rest of the island is dotted with small towns and villages, each with its own local flavor, where a more peaceful and idyllic environment offers sanctuary from crowds and traffic.

Oahu is the most popular island in Hawaii, and it’s easy to get here. Over 100 flights from all over the world arrive and depart daily via Honolulu International Airport, with service from all 23 major domestic and 16 international carriers. There are over 300,000 hotel rooms on Oahu, ranging from sparse to ultra-luxurious, as well as rental houses, condos, and rustic cottages around the island. With one of the best public bus systems in the nation, transportation anywhere on Oahu is easy and affordable. Shuttles and taxis are also convenient ways to get from room to dock. A few luxury resorts on the North Shore and on the Western shores of Ko Olina beckon those looking to really get away, but most accommodations are near Waikiki Beach – easy access to the majority of fishing charters.

Nearly all local charters operate from Oahu’s south shore and are located near Honolulu and around Waikiki, primarily out of Kewalo Basin, 10 minutes west of Waikiki Beach. Half and full-day charters are available, along with many sunset or midnight excursions for Sharks. The water gets deep close to shore, so it’s usually not necessary to travel farther than 30-35 miles out. The Penguin Banks and the Pinnacle are two favorite bottom structures for baitfish and the hungry predators they attract. In these depths you will find tasty Ahi and Mahi Mahi, the lonely Ono, Sailfish, Striped Marlin, and the granddaddy of them all, the Pacific Blue Marlin. Indeed, the largest Marlin ever caught (1805 pounds) called these waters home. After the battle, soak up the view of Oahu’s majestic green slopes and ample terrain as the boat brings you back to land, spent and satisfied.

Even if you are visiting other Hawaiian islands chances are you will likely pass through Oahu at some point. Be sure to make some time for a charter or two, and experience the thrill and reward that locals and people staying here find offshore. You can’t pass up a chance to land that trophy Pacific Blue Marlin or any other popular sport fish. Let the landlubbers enjoy the rainforest, mountains, and terrain; even the museums and cultural wonders. The real excitement of Oahu lies offshore. What are you waiting for?