Lucky Strike II

The sport fisherman rides the fine line between patience and exhilaration.

One moment he is peacefully enjoying the beauty and serenity of the blue Pacific waters, enjoying the conversation of his fishing companions, and the gentle rocking of the vessel and slow and lazy drone of the powerful engines. In the flash of an instant however, an otherwise uneventful voyage can turn into sheer thrill and utter pandemonium.
Every fisherman knows the adrenaline rush that ensues the moment he hears the high pitched wine of the line uncoiling the instant there is a strike.
From lazing about, perhaps a Budweiser in hand, the scene changes to the excitement of a wild game hunt. Few experiences capture the drama and absolute exhilaration of finding yourself, without a moments notice, the adversary of one of natures largest, fiercest, and most unrelenting competitors, the Pacific Blue Marlin.
Lahaina and Maalaea harbors on Maui are well known throughout the island chain as ideal locations for the thrill of sport fishing. These waters are the home of the Pacific Blue, Striped and Short Billed Marlin, the Skipjack and Yellowfin Tuna, Mahimahi, Wahoo (Ono), Trevally, Shark, Barracuda, and Hawaiian Salmon. These fish are quite often the same ones you'll find on your dinner table that very night at your favorite seafood restaurant but it is becoming ever more popular to "tag and release" these great fish, to have them fight another day.
There are many boats to choose from varying from just having your basic equipment to others that come equipped with large salons, stereo equipment, galleys with microwave, refrigerator and freezer, showers, covered bridge, cellular phone, air conditioning, color video fishfinders, Penn International reels and rock-away fighting chairs.
Charters can be at a per person price, or can be at a private rate exclusive for the use of your group. There are 4hr., 6hr., and 8hr. charters. Boats can leave in the mornings or in the afternoons.
You can also find bottom fishing boats which drop your line over the side. These almost always produce results so they prove very appealing to some fisherman, though the fish you catch are usually much smaller than the sport fishing variety.

HELPFUL TIPS
If your really serious about catching fish consider the 3/4 (6 hour) or full day (8 hour) trips. These trips generally give you more time to fish at the fishing grounds.
The fishing crews are usually great fisherman but you'll be pleased to know that they won't be making your lunch. Plan to bring your own food and drink.
The "tag an release" option is usually left up to you. Discuss this with the captain at the beginning of your trip.