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- Big game fishing
on Kauai is as good as anywhere in the world.
- Fish migrate.
Different species of fish are in Hawaiian waters in larger numbers
at different times of the year, and on different sides of the island.
Be sure to ask what you can expect to catch.
- Not all boats
take the same number of fishermen. Ask how many people will be fishing
on your shared charter.
- Not all companies
offer the same quality equipment. Ask detailed questions about the
boat and tackle.
Example a:
A Bertram boat is a heavy, stable boat. A radon is light, less stable
and offers fewer amenities.
Example b: 2-speed
Penn Gold International reels are of high quality and reliable with
the largest fish at hook. 1-speed Penn senators reels are less expensive,
less reliable and you do all the work.
Example c:
There is a significant difference between a flush toilet and a port-a-potty.
Make sure the boat you book has a real toilet and there's a locking
door.
Example d:
Not all companies tell the truth about their boats. A 38 foot Bertram
may only be a 35 Bertram with a bow pulpit and swim step. It may be
38 feet LOA (length over all), but it's still a 35 Bertram. Be sure
to ask the manufacture's designated length. Size does make a difference.
Example e: Tuna
towers are great on flat seas but nearly useless in Kauai waters.
The tower only makes the boat top heavy and less stable.
Example f:
Not all boats called fishing boats are true sportfishing boats. Know
what you're chartering.
- Know the cancellation
policy or you may pay for a charter you're unable to go on due to
an unexpected event. Know the fish policy. Ask if you're not happy
what they're willing to do to make you feel you've been treated fairly.
- The length and
weight of the boat determines the ocean swells it can handle safely.
Never go out when seas are 12 feet near coastal or when winds are
blowing 30 knots. Ask about cancellation due to weather.
- If you elect
to do a shared charter, be prepared to spend 4 to 8 hours with someone
whose company you may not enjoy. Also, sea sickness is no fun, but
it is often a part of big game fishing. Ask if you will be allowed
to return to port if you get sick, or what happens to your charter
if someone else gets sick.
- Dont believe
everything youre told. If someone tells you they always catch,
or that another company never catches, you can stop believing anything
else they say.
- All fish are
not the same. Catching a 3 pound Aku is not sportfishing.
- If something
sounds to good to be true, it probably is. Shop and compare. You'll
be happy you did.
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