Number one Blue Marlin tag and release boat in Kona for 2024After Tantrum finished one of the most historical years of catching billfish in Kona, HI, we are picking up where we left off in 2024. Our numbers in 2025 haven’t indicated any signs of slowing down. We have had some unreal numbers in the last 11 days of fishing, 1/11/25 through 1/23/25. In 11 days, we have caught 35 blue marlin, seven stripe marlin, one spearfish, and a few Mahi Mahis. The vast majority were blue marlin males in the 100-200lb grade; we have also caught 300 lb, 400lb, 500lb, and an estimated 700+ lb.
The Three Highlights:
On Tuesday, January 21st, we left the harbor at 6 am to get to the grounds for an early pass. It paid off because, by 8 am, we already had a few marlins in the boat. It was a day that everyone who partakes in Big Island Sportfishing dreams of. There was little to no rest; we were busy getting bites all day. We finished the day with nine blues and three striped marlins, all tagged and released safely. This is the best single day of Blue Marlin catches on Tantrum and the third-best blue Marlin catch day ever in Honokohau Harbor.
Another highlight occurred the following day with a long-time repeat charger, Michael from England. He has had some great days on the boat but won’t forget January 22nd. He landed a 700 lb + blue, a couple of other smaller males, and a big Mahi Mahi.
Big Island Sportfishing at its finest
The last Big Island Sportfishing highlight was from one of our other repeat charters from Colorado, Neil. Talk about a lucky streak. During the last 10 charter days on Tantrum, he has caught 48 Blue Marlin. Sixteen blues, three stripes, and one spearfish came during his six days last week.
Final Takeaway
I am always asked when the best time to fish in Kona is. The answer is ALWAYS. There are marlins around Kona year-round. The only reason people might say the summer is when more marlins are around is because more boats are fishing. We are typically busy fishing every month of the year because of our previous successes, so we get to enjoy our fishery year-round. If you want to fish with us, I suggest booking with us as soon as you know your dates. We tend to fill up quickly. Occasionally, people’s trips coincide with available days, but I wouldn’t always count on that.
Owners and Crew of Tantrum Sporfishing
