Fishing in Maui??

[Kelly Steele]

We are going to Maui the end of January and are hoping to get a day or two in fishing. Does anybody know who we should go thru or just pick one of the many boats out there? Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
Kelly Willis
California Bass Federation

[David McKenzie]

Time is not on your side in terms of getting things locked in with a guide or charter. Be specific about what you want to fish for. Do some research about the fishing for that time of year.

If you just want to go fishing and aren't really concerned about hooking one of the glamour fish(mahi,marlin etc..) then a open charter similar to what we have here might be the best bet and won't cost you a fortune. There is also Peacock Bass on Maui and some shore/wade fishing oppertunities along the coast.

Have fun!

[sTony]

I used to hang out on Maui alot and found that going to Costco and picking up a simple rig to fish from shore was a lot of fun. I've done a lot of charters there as well and can tell you that the fishing is hit and miss at best. Humpbacks are there during the time of your visit and whale watching is an absolute blast, both from shore and by boat. I saw one humpback the size of a Winnebago RV breach while on a whale watching cruise and it was an unforgetable experience. From shore just look for the water spouts to see a lot of whale activity. Most of the good fishing happens a fair ways away from Maui during that time of year so if you're prone to sea sickness it's best to be prepared.

Other ideas for you though is taking a trip 'up country' to Haleakala. A guided trip into the Iao Valley. The rental car companies frown on it but an excursion to Hana is a great way to see an undeveloped Maui. Lahaina is a cool little artsy port town. Snorkeling at Molokini Crater is a blast. The prime rib at Kimo's in Lahiana is the best you'll ever have and there are lots of greart eating all over the island. the Kula Botanical Garden is also worth a visit if you like waterfalls, winding paths and beautiful flowers.

That's just a few ideas on an island that certainly has a lot to see and do.

sTony