Maui Sportfishing Information Page
Start Me Up

You probably have questions... If we don't provide the answers below, be sure to email us.
	What species do you fish for? We target big gamefish, particularly blue marlin, striped marlin, and black marlin, ahi, kawakawa, skipjack (tuna), mahi mahi (dolphin fish -- NOT Flipper!), ono (wahoo), and spear fish.   Do you have a special 'plan' for the day? A particular 'route' that you fish? NOPE. Each day is different (this is what keeps us going!). Where we end up depends on a number of factors such as weather patterns, recent bite locations and...most of all...sheer gut instinct. With 31 years experience fishing in Hawaiian waters our "instincts" are getting pretty well honed. We prefer to leave early in the morning (5:30am) from Lahaina Harbor, though if you prefer a shorter, afternoon trip we can arrange that too. Lahaina is typically the calmest of the Maui harbors and is relatively close to the more active fishing destinations. We are roughly 45 minutes from the neighbor islands of Lana’i and Kaho’olawe, and about 1 hour from the island of Moloka’i. We are one of the fastest boats in Lahaina Harbor which gives you more time where the bite is! We might pick up some smaller fish for live baiting (depending on the bite), and/or troll with artificial lures.
Would you recommend the trip for non-fishermen? Start Me Up is a high-end vessel, with an air-conditioned cabin, bathroom, TV, VCR, and well-equipped galley. Non-fishing passengers will find it very comfortable. The scenery is spectacular and a camera is recommended.   What should we bring? You will need to arrange for food and beverages for the day. It is best to do this the night before as there's not much open early in the morning. We'd be happy to put you in touch with a caterer who can prepare a nice deli luch for you and your party for the trip. We will supply all the ice and fishing gear. Contrary to popular belief, you DO NOT need a fishing license to go sportfishing. Oh, and don't forget your sunscreen, and and/or sunglasses, camera and other personal items! And, of course, any “lucky charms” you may choose to bring with you will not be discouraged.   Do we get to keep the fish we catch? In Hawaii, it is customary to leave the majority of the fish with the boat, though our captain and crew will frequently cut up enough fish for you and your party to enjoy a sumptuous seafood dinner! There are no canning/processing/shipping facilities on Maui which makes it difficult to take a fish back home. If you are interested in getting your catch mounted, we can arrange that for you.   What about foul weather cancellations? On occasion, we are forced to cancel charters due to poor weather conditions. In such cases, the captain always makes the call. We will inform you of such an occurrence as soon as possible. You WILL NOT be charged for cancellations made by the captain. If foul weather is suspected and you are concerned, be sure to call us. We'll keep you informed of the status of your trip.