Fishing Fun: 5 Hawaii State Parks to Reel in the Big One

Sandy Allen

08 Sep 2025 — 3 min read

Photo: Wikimedia/Polihale/CC by SA 3.0

Hawaii’s state parks aren’t just about stunning beaches, waterfalls and hiking trails. They also offer excellent fishing opportunities, whether you’re traveling from a marina, a charter or a private boat slip rental. From shoreline casting to deep-sea style experiences, these Hawaiian parks give anglers a chance to enjoy beautiful scenery while reeling in impressive catches.

1. Kaʻena Point State Park

Photo: Wikimedia/Daniel Ramirez/CC by SA 2.0

This rugged coastal park on O'ahu is popular among shore anglers who cast into deep waters from rocky points. Ulua (giant trevally) are the prize catch here, along with papio, goatfish and wrasse. Ka’ena Point State Park is remote, so bring everything you need for a day outdoors.

Water: Salt
Key Species: Goatfish, wrasse, papio, ulua
Fishing Type:

2. Malaekahana State Recreation Area

Photo: Malaekahana Beach Campground (Facebook)

Known for its long sandy beach, Malaekahana State Park on O’ahu is a great spot for surf fishing. Anglers often catch papio, moi and mullet. Its calm setting and nearby camping areas make it ideal for families who want to combine fishing with a beach getaway or a day trip from a private boat dock for rent.

Water: Salt
Key Species: Moi, papiio, mullet
Fishing Type: Boat, surf, shore, kayak

3. Kōkeʻe State Park

While better known for its hiking trails and Waimea Canyon overlooks, Kōkeʻe State Park offers unique freshwater fishing opportunities on Kaua’i. Streams in the area are stocked with rainbow trout, a rarity in Hawaii. Fishing here combines mountain scenery with a cooler climate and makes it perfect for those looking to escape the heat.

Water: Fresh
Key Species: Rainbow trout
Fishing Type: Boat, shore

4. Wailoa River State Recreation Area

Photo: Little Latitudes Vacation Homes (Facebook)

Located in Hilo, on the Big Island of Hawaii, Wailoa River State Recreation Area provides easy access to brackish waters where anglers catch mullet, tilapia and occasionally barracuda. The calm river setting makes it a good choice for beginners and families.

Water: Brackish
Key Species: Tilapia, mullet, barracuda
Fishing Type: Shore, boat

5. Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area

The famous white sand beach at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area is a scenic place to try surf fishing. Anglers often catch papio, oio (bonefish) and various reef fish. If you’re planning your day out from a private boat lift rental or marina on the Big Island of Hawai’i, early morning or late afternoon tends to be the most productive.

Water: Salt
Key Species: Papio, oio (bonefish), reef fish
Fishing Type: Boat, shore, surf

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