Private Deep Water Fishing in Kauai

Getting ready for a day on Kauai’s waters? If you’re considering a private deep water fishing tour, this one from Explore Kauai Scuba might just be your ticket. While I haven’t tried it myself, I’ve gathered enough info to give you a solid picture of what to expect. It’s designed for groups up to six, runs around six hours, and offers a chance to reel in some impressive fish—or just enjoy a day on the water with good company.

What really catches my eye about this tour are a couple of things: first, it’s completely customizable, so you can tailor your day based on your fishing goals or just want to chill and snorkel. Second, the friendly, knowledgeable crew seems to make the experience feel relaxed and personal. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that, like most fishing excursions, success isn’t guaranteed—someone caught only a small fish on one review—but that’s part of the game with fishing, right?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a private experience and love the idea of a flexible itinerary. It’s also suitable if you’re into fishing, snorkeling, or just spending a day on the water with a crew that cares about your experience. If you’re traveling with friends or family who appreciate a laid-back, tailored day out, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Private & customizable — the tour is only for your group, with options to adapt the experience.
• Focus on fishing with options to jig or target specific species, depending on conditions.
• Includes snorkeling equipment and onboard restroom — small touches that add comfort.
• No included transportation, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point.
• Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, which offers some flexibility.
• Captains are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the day more enjoyable.

What to Expect from the Deep Water Fishing Tour

This experience is all about targeting big fish in Kauai’s offshore waters. The primary goal is to catch species like yellowfin tuna, skipjack tuna, ono (wahoo), sailfish, spearfish, and marlin. That’s a solid list, making it appealing if you’re after a true fishing adventure. If the offshore waters aren’t cooperative, the crew has a backup plan—fishing inside the reef for amberjack, snapper, and trevally. This flexibility can be a real plus, especially if you’re eager to get some bites regardless of the day’s conditions.

The boat departs early at 6 a.m., which is standard for fishing trips—the early start helps beat the crowds and increases your chances of a good catch. The six-hour duration is a fair chunk of time; it’s enough to cover some ground and get into the rhythm of fishing without it feeling too long or exhausting.

The Meeting Point & Logistics

You’ll meet at Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor in Kekaha, which is straightforward if you’re staying on Kauai’s west side. Keep in mind, transportation isn’t included, so plan accordingly. Arriving on time is important, especially when you’re eager to hit the water early.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour includes use of snorkeling gear and an onboard restroom, which adds a layer of convenience—especially after a few hours fishing or if you want to take a quick break from the sun. The cost for a group up to six is $1,500, which might seem steep, but it’s a private experience, so you’re paying for exclusivity and customization. When split among a full group, that’s about $250 each, which is reasonable for a full day of fishing and water activities.

The Crew & Personal Touches

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and friendly captains. One mentioned that it was “one of the highlights of our trip,” thanks to the boat and crew. It seems the personal attention and local expertise make a difference, especially if you’re new to fishing or want tips from seasoned anglers.

The Experience on the Water

Imagine being out on a well-maintained boat, feeling the salt breeze, and watching the horizon for signs of fish. The crew’s flexibility in aiming for different species depending on what’s biting makes it more than just a fishing trip—it’s an adventure with options. The possibility to jig for amberjack, snapper, and trevally inside the reef means even less luck offshore isn’t the end of the day.

While one reviewer caught only a small fish, they still rated the experience highly, saying it was “one of the highlights of our trip.” That’s a reminder that sometimes the joy is in the journey, the quiet moments on the water, and the camaraderie with the crew.

What About Snorkeling?

This tour includes snorkeling gear, so if you’re interested in mixing fishing with a bit of underwater exploration, you can. It’s a nice bonus that adds value, especially if you want a varied day.

Analyzing the Cost and Value

At $1,500 for a private group of up to six people, you’re paying for exclusivity, customization, and a tailored experience. For anglers, this kind of tour offers the chance to target some impressive fish species in water known for its richness. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and restroom access are small perks that improve comfort, but the main draw is the focus on fishing.

Given the positive reviews about the crew’s friendliness and knowledge, many would say the value lies in the quality of the experience and the personal attention you receive. Remember, success in fishing can vary—sometimes you reel in a trophy-sized fish, and other times, just a small catch—but the overall experience can still be memorable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who value privacy and customization. It’s ideal for fishing enthusiasts or those eager to try their hand at deep water fishing with experienced guides. If you’re traveling with friends or family who share your love for the water, this could be an exciting and memorable outing. It’s less suited for travelers seeking a guided tour with a set schedule or those who prefer more structured activities.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a personalized, flexible fishing adventure in Kauai, this private deep water fishing tour checks many boxes. The emphasis on customization and the positive reviews about the crew suggest you’ll be in good hands, even if the catch isn’t huge every time. It’s a great option if you want to escape the crowds, spend quality time on the water, and have the opportunity to target some impressive fish species in a stunning setting.

Keep in mind that success depends on conditions, but the crew’s willingness to adapt inside the reef if offshore fishing isn’t productive makes it more appealing. The early start and six-hour window strike a good balance between adventure and relaxation, and the inclusion of snorkeling gear adds a fun, versatile element.

Whether you’re an angler looking for a serious day of fishing or just someone who wants a private day on the water with personalized touches, this tour has much to offer. It’s probably best for those who don’t mind paying a premium for a tailored experience and who are okay with some fishing unpredictability. If that sounds like you, this could be a memorable addition to your Kauai trip.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor in Kekaha. Make sure to arrive on time for the 6 a.m. departure.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. If you cancel less than 24 hours in advance, you won’t get a refund.

What should I bring for the tour?
While the tour provides snorkeling gear and restroom amenities, it’s a good idea to bring sun protection, water, and possibly a hat or sunglasses. Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the description doesn’t specify if children are welcome. If you’re bringing young kids, consider their comfort with early mornings and being out on the water for several hours.

What kind of fish can I expect to catch?
Target species include yellowfin tuna, skipjack tuna, ono, sailfish, spearfish, and marlin. Inside the reef, you might find amberjack, snapper, and trevally.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 6 a.m. and returning to the harbor around noon or early afternoon.

Is the experience customizable?
Yes, the tour is private and can be tailored to your preferences, whether that’s focusing on certain fish species or including snorkeling.

What is the price and is it worth it?
The cost is $1,500 per group, up to six people. Given the private nature and flexible itinerary, many would find this reasonable for a personalized day on Kauai’s waters.

Hopefully, this gives you a clear picture of what to expect from this private deep water fishing tour. It’s a chance to enjoy Kauai from the water with a crew that seems dedicated to making your day memorable—whether you land a big fish or just soak in the surroundings.