Relax, cast a line, and soak in ocean views on this beginner-friendly bottom fishing tour just off the coast of Waikiki. Aboard the 50-foot Tortuga, Hawaii’s only 25-passenger fishing boat departing from Waikiki, you’ll fish over shallow reef spots using light tackle and squid bait—perfect for first-timers, families, and casual anglers. The friendly crew provides hands-on assistance with everything from baiting your hook to releasing your catch, making the trip both fun and approachable. With BYOB and food allowed, air-conditioned cabin seating, and scenic views of the Honolulu coastline, this is one of the most relaxing and enjoyable ways to spend a few hours on the water.

What to Expect

Your fishing adventure begins at Kewalo Basin Harbor, just minutes from Waikiki. After checking in, you’ll board the Tortuga, a 50-foot Chesapeake outfitted for comfort with shaded deck space and an air-conditioned cabin. As the boat motors about a half-mile offshore, the captain offers a brief introduction to the waters around Oʻahu and what you might expect to catch.

The first stop is a shallow reef known for its abundance of Hawaiian reef fish. As the boat drifts over the fishing grounds, the deckhand prepares the light tackle rods and defrosted calamari bait, offering a quick lesson on bottom fishing techniques. You’ll learn how to drop your line, jig for bites, and avoid tangling with no casting involved.

Once the lines are in, it’s a laid-back experience of feeling for bites and reeling in colorful reef species like triggerfish, snapper, wrasse, trumpetfish, and trevally. Most fish are catch-and-release due to their small size, but if you're lucky enough to haul in a legal-size fish over 20 pounds, the crew will gladly fillet it for you to take home.

Depending on the action, the captain may try two to three different reef spots or reset on the same one if the bite is good. Throughout the trip, the crew is on hand to assist with baiting hooks, untangling lines, and safely handling your catch. It’s a low-pressure, scenic outing ideal for guests who want to experience Hawaiian fishing in an easy going atmosphere.

You’ll return to the harbor after about two hours on the water—smiling, relaxed, and likely with a few fish tales to tell.

Included

• Casual bottom fishing tour off Waikiki
• Friendly and experienced captain & crew
• All fishing equipment (light tackle, rods, bait)
• Hands-on assistance for beginners
• Air-conditioned cabin & shaded deck space
• Catch-and-release fishing (keep fish over 20 lbs)
• BYOB and bring-your-own food and water 

Requirements & Notes

• No fishing license required
• Most catches are small reef fish and will be released
• Guests must be comfortable being on a boat for ~3 hours
• Children welcome with adult supervision
• Please bring your own water and snacks if desired
• Alcohol is allowed (BYOB), but please drink responsibly
• Tour is focused on casual, recreational fishing—not trophy hunting