Kauai Bonefish on the fly

Fly Fishing Kauai Hawaii is certainly not a destination on the bucket list of fly rod anglers but recently I was treated to a week long trip to this wonderful Island. Typically when talking of Hawaiian bonefish one associates the fish with the Oahu and Maui Islands.Before leaving I had ample time to search the web for intel regarding the large bonefish that are said to dwell in the shallow flats surrounding Kauai. I discovered few anglers had posted much about the topic on
 bonefish around Kauai but I did gather up a few tidbits of  intriguing data that included areas to checkout along the Islands 110 miles of shoreline.

The Island has ample beaches and flats to search for the mighty O'io (the Hawaiian name for bonefish). From the trips onset leaving the airport driving North I was drawn to look at the many beaches and flats that would potentially have fish. I was excited to see the many public access parking areas to these waters that showed potential.The flats had little resemblance to the traditional saltwater bonefish flats I have fished in Florida, the Yukatan peninsula or  Caribean. The week was amazing. Fished many beaches, reefs and flats. Few other anglers around. Locals were friendly and helpful when I asked them about where I might find an  O'io. I landed many different species of fish and yes I even found bonefish!Conditions were a bit harsh as far as weather.Will I go back ? Yes indeed ! and would not think of leaving the fly rod at home.

   

Many "non traditional" type flats on the island. Some surrounded by reefs with off shore breaks. Depending on the tide I could have waded a couple hundred yards off shore.

A Score !

The best things in life are not things but it sure is nice to have a really cool fly rod and reel, a well made leader and a fly you tied that you believe in before you wade out on an angler void flat.

The fastest land animal on the Island.

Footprints in the Sand. Very few shore/flats anglers around.

  

This little offering caught everything.

Many Trevally ! Many other flats and reef fish species to catch. I had the feeling like I was shooting pretty little song birds off the bird feeder each time I hooked one of these beautiful little fish.

Trumpet Fish everywhere.Started feeling sorry for them after a while.Locals say they are great to eat.

I saw a total of 6 O'io under poor conditions.Only if it were sunny ! I believe there is worthy potential for a followup trip to this wonderful island that is off the bonefish angler radar.

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