Fly Fishing in Hawaii
Hawaii is not trout country. Fly fishing here means wading reef flats for bonefish and trevally, with a little freshwater bass fishing on the side.
- 5River guides
Flows right now in Hawaii
2 of 3 top rivers are flowing normal for today
- South Fork Kaukonahua Stream(USGS gage page, opens in a new tab) 12 cfs Normal 25th–75th percentile updated 1 hour ago
- Waikele Stream(USGS gage page, opens in a new tab) 25 cfs Normal 25th–75th percentile updated 1 hour ago
- Honoliʻi Stream(USGS gage page, opens in a new tab) 87 cfs Above normal 76th–90th percentile updated 24 minutes ago
USGS readings compared with each gage's daily flow percentiles (historical record for today's date).
Check the water before you go
Live flows, hatches and fishability ratings for every one of these rivers, in the free FlyFishFinder app.
Fly fishing in Hawaii
Most fly fishing in Hawaii happens on the reef flats, where o'io, the Hawaiian bonefish, feed in shallow water close to shore. Oahu has the best-known flats, and the fish here grow large and are known for being wary. Expect fewer shots than on the busier bonefish destinations, and make each one count.
The same flats and nearshore reefs hold papio and omilu, the local names for trevally, which hit streamers and poppers hard. Wade carefully: reef, coral and sea urchins are everywhere, and conditions change fast with wind, tide and swell.
Freshwater options are limited. Wahiawa Reservoir (Lake Wilson) on Oahu holds peacock bass and other introduced warmwater fish, and Kauai has a small, seasonal rainbow trout fishery in the Kokee area. Treat these as side trips rather than the main event.
Tips for fishing Hawaii
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Fish the tide
Bonefish move onto the flats with the tide to feed. Learn the tide schedule for your flat and be there when the water starts moving.
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Bring an 8 weight
An 8 weight with a floating line handles the wind and bigger fish. Carry plenty of backing; a Hawaiian bonefish can run a long way.
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Carry flies in several weights
Shrimp and crab patterns in tan, olive and white, tied heavy and light to match the depth. Lighter flies land softer in shallow water.
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Wear proper wading shoes
Reef flats are sharp and uneven. Wear sturdy wading boots or reef shoes, shuffle your feet and watch for urchins.
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Consider a guide
Spotting fish on Hawaiian flats takes practice. A day with a local guide is often the fastest way to learn where and how to look.
Find the right Hawaii river for today.
- Top Waters Today ranks the rivers near you on live conditions
- Every access point and parking area on one map
- Live flows from every USGS gauge in the state
Hawaii fly fishing FAQ
Can you fly fish in Hawaii?
Yes. Most fly fishing in Hawaii is in salt water, sight fishing reef flats for bonefish and trevally. There is some freshwater bass fishing and a small seasonal trout fishery on Kauai.
Are there trout in Hawaii?
Not native ones. Rainbow trout have been stocked in the Kokee area of Kauai, where there is a limited season. Check the state's current rules before planning a trip around it.
Where is the best bonefishing in Hawaii?
Oahu has the best-known bonefish flats. The fish are large and spooky, so expect a challenge and fewer, higher-quality shots.
Do I need a fishing license in Hawaii?
You need a license to fish fresh water. Saltwater fishing has its own rules on sizes and closed areas, so check the DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources' current regulations.
What flies work for Hawaiian bonefish?
Shrimp and crab patterns in natural colors, tied in several weights. Carry a few small baitfish streamers for trevally.
When is the best time to fly fish in Hawaii?
Year-round. Clear skies, light wind and a moving tide make the biggest difference, so watch the weather and tide charts.
