Fishing Charters in Hawaii
Browse fishing charters in Hawaii that can help you catch opakapaka (snapper).


Sea Genie Sport Fishing
Kaiminani, Hawaii


Lightspeed Sportfishing
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii


Lein Low Sportfishing
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Join us in Kailua-Kona aboard our premier sportfishing vessel, Lei'n Low, a state-of-the-art 43’ Viking equipped with a Simrad SY50 Omni system. With top-of-the-line fishing equipment and an expert crew, immerse yourself in the thrill of big game fishing!


Big Island Kona Fishing Charters
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii


Ke Nui Charters
Haleiwa, Hawaii
Haleiwa, North Shore Sport Fishing, Nicest Boat, Oahu Sport Fishing, Most Luxurious Boat, Marlin, Mahi Mahi, Tuna, Ahi, Whale watching, Sunset cruise, Fish


Hi Tide Fly Fishing
Honolulu, Hawaii
There is nothing better than a rewarding and fun day on the water in Hawaii. Experience fly fishing with Captain Jesse in the pacific. Contact us today 808-364-7213!


Hawaii Fishing Charters
Honolulu, Hawaii


Rainbow Runner Fishing Charters
Maui Fishing Secrets


Medusa Sportfisihng


Northern Lights Sportsfishing


Kona Cowboy Sport Fishing
Set out to new fishing adventures on the prolific Hawaii waters with Kona Cowboy Sportfishing at the helm!


P And R Water Taxi
Best Time to Catch Opakapaka (Snapper)
Opakapaka (Snapper) can be caught year-round in Kapolei. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Opakapaka (Snapper)
Kapolei provides access to some excellent Opakapaka (Snapper) fishing grounds, though reaching them requires venturing offshore. These prized deep-water snappers inhabit depths of 200 to 400 feet, so a boat equipped with a fish finder and GPS is essential. The most productive time to target Opakapaka is generally during the calmer weather windows of spring and summer. Bottom fishing with cut squid or shrimp is a proven method, and using a multi-hook rig can increase your chances of success. Focus your efforts on areas with rocky bottoms and underwater structure, as these provide habitat for Opakapaka. A local tip is to use glow-in-the-dark lures or beads to attract Opakapaka in the deep, dark waters. Be prepared for strong currents and use enough weight to keep your bait near the bottom. Always check the current fishing regulations regarding size and bag limits before heading out.
How to Catch Opakapaka (Snapper)
Opakapaka (Snapper) Fishing Regulations in Hawaii
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
No license required for recreational saltwater fishing
There are specific bottom fishing restricted areas where regulations may differ.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Hawaii state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Hawaii
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait for catching Opakapaka (Snapper) near Kapolei?
Opakapaka are typically caught in deeper waters, so using cut bait like squid or octopus is effective. Also, consider using artificial lures that mimic small fish to entice a strike.
Is there a closed season for Opakapaka in Hawaii?
No, there is no closed season for Opakapaka in Hawaii. Fishing for Opakapaka is open year-round.
Are there any restrictions on the size or number of Opakapaka I can keep in Hawaii?
Currently, there are no size or bag limits for Opakapaka in Hawaii. However, always check for any updated regulations before you go fishing.
Do I need a license to fish for Opakapaka in the ocean around Kapolei?
No, a recreational fishing license is not required for saltwater fishing in Hawaii, including for Opakapaka.
More Opakapaka (Snapper) Fishing in Hawaii
Other Species to Fish in Kapolei
Ready to Catch Opakapaka (Snapper) in Kapolei?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.




