Hawaii Fishing Charters, Hawaii Bass Fishing

Most people visit the Hawaiian Islands for a vacation or for a saltwater fishing adventure on a Hawaii fishing charter. Freshwater fishing, however, is available, although it’s somewhat limited. There are plenty of freshwater lakes and reservoirs that hold good populations of desirable fish. The problem is that almost all of them are privately owned. Unless you can make friends with a resident, you won’t have many choices. Another option is to hire a fishing guide. Many of them have agreements with some of the sugar plantation owners, who will allow the fishing guides and their guests to fish in the plantation irrigation reservoirs.

Freshwater fish species native to Hawaii are mostly small fish, but peacock bass, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass were introduced years ago. Other desirable fish include channel catfish, bluegill, tilapia, and freshwater barracuda. The snakehead, a tasty freshwater fish, is found in several Oahu reservoirs. Even some rainbow trout can be found in the streams and canals of Kauai, near Kokee State Park.

Peacock Bass Fishing in Hawaii

Peacock bass fishing is the most popular type of freshwater fishing in Hawaii. In case you’re not familiar with this species, it resembles a largemouth bass in body shape, but it displays bold, bright coloring and markings. It’s even more prey aggressive than a largemouth, and it puts up a spectacular fight when hooked. Peacock bass can be caught year round in Hawaii, but the best months are April through November.

Numerous fishing charters in Hawaii specialize in peacock bass fishing. These bass guides will be able to put you on some great peacock bass and some hefty largemouth bass.

Hawaii Peacock Bass Fishing Guides

Public Fishing Areas

Lake Wilson – The real name of this 400-acre reservoir is Wahiawa, but it’s more commonly known as “Lake Wilson.” It’s located in central Oahu and is a prime location for peacock bass, especially in the warmest months of the year when the fish are more active. While you’re at Lake Wilson, you can also catch largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, tilapia, Oscar fish, catfish, bluegill, and pungi.

Waita Reservoir – This 424-acre lake is located on the island of Kauai. It holds largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and peacock bass. In 1992, a 9 pound, 9.4-ounce largemouth bass was caught in the lake.

Wailua Stream – Wailua and its tributaries, located on Kauai, offer excellent smallmouth bass fishing.

Nu’uanu Reservoir #4 – This reservoir is located on the island of Oahu, between Honolulu and Kailua. It’s open to the public during the weekends of May, August, and November. It’s stocked with channel catfish, and some large fish have been taken.

Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden – This beautiful facility, located on Oahu, has a freshwater catch-and-release program. Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, tilapia, and channel catfish can be caught with a variety of baits.

Waimea River – Located on Kauai, this river holds freshwater barracuda and papio.