Shoreline Ukupalu, Blue-Green Snapper (sp. Aprion virescens), 31″ x 21″

Normally caught off shore bottom fishing, this uku was caught baitcasting on the west shores of Oahu.

Hybrid? – Kahala (sp. Seriola dumerili), 31″ x 21″

Even with DNA studies, the line of species become blurred when cross breeding occurs. We could not positively identify this fish. Initial theory is that perhaps fish that escaped from aquaculture bred with others to produce something like this.

6 lb. Test From Shore – Aku (sp. Gymnosarda Pelamis), 31″ x 21″

While whipping for Opelu from shore, we landed this Aku. We were fortunate not to have the light line break or be spooled as normally, ultra light fishing tackle would be overmatched against tuna.

Mahi Mahi (sp. Coryphaena hippurus), 50″ x 30″

This fish is rightly named for its fighting spirit as “Mahi” is Hawaiian for “strength”. One summer, several of my cousins found an abandoned cargo net floating several miles off the north shore of Oahu. Although they were disappointed the net was too heavy to be brought aboard, they were rewarded for their intentions. A bounty of several dozen Mahi Mahi swimming below the net provided them with a great time, catching one after another with spinning gear.

Opakapaka (sp. Bowersia violescens), 31″ x 21″

This Pink Snapper was caught off Penguin Banks.

The Chase (L) – Ahi Chasing Malolo (sp. Thunnus albacores), 31″ x 22″

(Dyptich – left panel) The Yellowfin or Allison is a member of the Tuna family. It is a prized catch, valued both as an excellent food source and a great fighter with deep, bruising runs. This juvenile was caught off the Kona coast of the Big Island of Hawaii.

The Chase (R) – Ahi Chasing Malolo (sp. Thunnus albacores), 31″ x 22″