Molokai offers some of Hawaii’s most peaceful and productive fishing locations, far from the busy tourist spots found on other islands.
From the long stretch of Kaunakakai Pier to the quiet waters of Hale O Lono Harbor, anglers can cast a line and enjoy steady action.
The island’s calm pace and uncrowded shores help anglers focus on the catch and the beauty around them.
Those who enjoy fishing from shore can explore sandy beaches, rocky points, and hidden coves filled with a variety of fish.
One Ali‘i Park and the Molokai Harbor area give easy access for shore fishing, while local guides lead trips to lesser-known areas for even better results.
Molokai’s offshore waters challenge even experienced anglers with game fish.
Charter boats leave from Kaunakakai and nearby harbors, and skilled captains use local knowledge to provide a rewarding day on the water.
Top Fishing Spots in Molokai
Molokai offers shore, pier, and reef fishing spots for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Anglers can try calm, shallow waters or deeper offshore areas with larger species.
Kaunakakai Pier
Kaunakakai Pier is one of the most popular fishing spots on the island.
It stretches far into the water, giving anglers access to deeper areas without a boat.
Anglers often catch papio (trevally), barracuda, and goatfish here.
Many locals fish early in the morning or late in the afternoon for better results.
The pier’s length also makes it a good place for night fishing, attracting different species.
Parking is close by, and families or those carrying gear can easily access the area.
Visitors can watch boats come and go, which adds to the relaxed atmosphere.
Find more details in this guide to Molokai’s best fishing spots.
Hale O Lono Harbor
Hale O Lono Harbor sits on the southwest coast and attracts both shore casters and boat anglers.
The waters near the harbor often hold jacks, trevally, and seasonal pelagic fish.
The area is less crowded than Kaunakakai Pier, appealing to those who prefer quiet surroundings.
Since it is remote, visitors should bring all supplies needed for the day.
The harbor serves as a starting point for some sportfishing charters, offering shore and deep-sea options.
A Tripadvisor discussion on shoreline fishing in Molokai provides tips from anglers who have fished here.
Papohaku Beach
Papohaku Beach is one of Hawaii’s longest white sand beaches, stretching about three miles.
While known for its scenery, anglers can also surfcast here.
Anglers often target papio and ulua from the shore, especially when the surf is moderate.
The open beach offers plenty of space, but the waves can be strong, so caution is important.
Picnic areas and restrooms are nearby, making it comfortable for longer trips.
The west side location means sunny weather but little shade, so bring sun protection.
Puko’o Reef
Puko’o Reef is a popular spot for reef fishing and snorkeling.
The shallow reef holds many smaller reef fish, making it good for light tackle fishing.
Anglers catch species like goatfish, wrasse, and smaller trevally here.
The calm waters inside the reef suit beginners and families with children.
Shoreline entry gives access, and the clear water helps anglers spot fish.
Puko’o Reef offers a peaceful setting with consistent action for smaller species.
Unique Shore and Beach Fishing Locations
Molokai’s coastline has quiet fishing areas where anglers target bonefish, trevally, and barracuda.
These spots have accessible shorelines and natural features that attract fish.
Kawela Bay
Kawela Bay is a calm, protected area on Molokai’s south shore.
Its shallow flats are good for sight-casting to bonefish during low tide.
Anglers wade into knee-deep water to spot fish moving across sandy patches.
The bay’s reef edges also hold trevally and barracuda.
Casting lures or bait from shore can produce strikes, especially in the morning.
Facilities are limited, so visitors should bring their own gear, bait, and water.
Parking is available near the beach, but arriving early helps avoid crowding.
Halawa Valley
Halawa Valley sits at Molokai’s far eastern end.
The beach has sand and rocky sections, creating different fishing conditions.
Shoreline fishing can produce trevally and barracuda, especially near deeper channels along the rocks.
The sandy areas are better for lighter tackle and smaller reef fish.
The valley’s backdrop of waterfalls and cliffs makes it a scenic place.
The drive is long and winding, so anglers should plan for travel time and bring supplies.
Strong currents can occur, so always fish from safe, stable spots.
East Molokai Hidden Shores
The east end of Molokai has small, lesser-known beaches with few visitors.
These hidden shores often require short hikes or travel on unpaved roads.
Anglers can find isolated reef flats that attract bonefish and trevally.
Light spinning gear with small lures or flies works well in the shallows, while heavier tackle may be needed for barracuda.
Since these areas are remote, there are no facilities.
Bring extra water, sun protection, and a GPS or map.
For anglers seeking quiet fishing away from crowds, these hidden shores offer peaceful fishing along Molokai’s natural coastline.
Best Types of Fishing Experiences
Molokai provides fishing opportunities from stalking shallow-water bonefish to chasing marlin offshore.
Anglers can target prized species like ulua, mahimahi, and ono in settings for both beginners and experienced fishers.
Fly Fishing for Bonefish
Fly fishing on Molokai’s flats targets the elusive bonefish, known for speed and strength.
The island’s shallow waters let anglers spot fish before casting.
Guides use custom flats skiffs to reach the best areas.
Light tackle and accurate casting are important, as bonefish spook easily.
Many anglers use 8–9 weight fly rods with floating lines to handle the fish and the wind.
Early mornings offer the best conditions, with calmer water and better visibility.
Some guided trips, such as those with Hallelujah Hou Fishing, help both seasoned fly fishers and newcomers with technique and local fish behavior.
Shoreline Plug Casting
Shoreline plug casting targets powerful predators like ulua (giant trevally) from beaches, rocky points, and piers.
Anglers use heavy spinning gear to cast large surface plugs or stickbaits into deeper channels or along reef edges.
This fishing style requires patience and strength, as strikes can be sudden and intense.
Many fishers choose spots with strong currents where baitfish gather.
Popular areas include stretches near Kaunakakai and other accessible shoreline points.
Locals recommend using lures that mimic mullet or small reef fish.
According to The Best Fishing Spots in Molokai, plug casting is a favorite for those wanting a hands-on fishing experience without boarding a boat.
Deep-Sea and Big-Game Charters
Big-game species such as marlin, mahimahi, and ono live in the offshore waters around Molokai. Deep-sea charters usually leave from Kaunakakai Harbor.
These charters travel to fishing grounds that see fewer anglers. Captains with local knowledge, like those from Captain T Charters, use trolling techniques to cover large areas.
They use heavy tackle because these fish can weigh hundreds of pounds. Trips can last several hours or a full day.
Guests have the chance to catch different species during these trips. Many charters clean and pack the catch for guests, making it easy to enjoy fresh fish afterward.
