Humdinger Kona

Fishing License

Hawaii Nonresident Recreational Marine Fishing License Information

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In June 2021, Act 48 was passed into law, requiring nonresidents of Hawaiʻi to obtain a recreational marine fishing license to fish in Hawaiʻi. This law has been codified at Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) §188-72 “Nonresident recreational marine fishing license; application; fees; restrictions.” The Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR) subsequently adopted administrative rules to implement the NRMFL, Hawaii Administrative Rules (HAR) § 13-74-11, which took effect on May 2, 2024.

Who Needs a Nonresident Fishing License?

The Nonresident Recreational Marine Fishing License would be required for any non-Hawaii resident to fish for, take, or catch any marine life for recreational or non-commercial purposes.

Who is Exempt from purchasing a Hawaii Nonresident Fishing License?

  • Non-residents under the age of 15 years; and
  • Members of the U.S. armed forces on active duty in the State, their spouses, and their minor children

What are the Fees for a Hawaii Nonresident Fishing License?

  • 1-Day: $20
  • 7-Day: $40
  • Annual: $70

How can I purchase a Hawaii Nonresident Fishing License?

Licenses may be purchased online at: https://fishing.hawaii.gov/

KONA FISHING LICENSE FAQs

  • Where are the revenues from the NRMFL going?
    All revenues will be deposited into the Department’s sport fish special fund pursuant to HRS §187A-9.5. The statute defines specifically how these funds may be used:
    1. For programs and activities to implement title 12, subtitle 5, including the provision of state funds to match federal grants under the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act, for projects concerning sport fish
    2. For acquisition of the use, development, or maintenance of trails and accessways into public fishing areas, fishery management areas, marine life conservation districts, or private lands where public sport fishing is authorized
    3. For research programs and activities concerning sport fish conservation and management.
  • Will charter operators be required to sell or administer licenses?
    No, the licensing requirement will fall solely on the nonresident fisher.

Terms, Conditions and Cancellation Policy

  • Kona deep sea fishing charter duration: 1/2 Day=4 Hours | 3/4 Day=6 Hours | Full Day=8 Hours | Full Day=10 Hours.
  • Morning or Afternoon charters available for 1/2 Day and 3/4 Day Charters. Full Day Charters Depart at 6:30 AM or other time mutually agreed upon in advance.
  • Web Special Rates Valid for online bookings only and must be paid in full at time of reservation.
  • Valid for direct bookings only. Not valid if booked through a third party.
  • Kona Fishing Charter is valid for one (1) to six (6) passengers OF ANY AGE.

***** (Due to Coast Guard Regulations, we are limited to 6 passengers MAX)*****

  • A 100% refund will be applied for cancellations made 15 days or more from the date of departure.
  • Refunds made less than 15 days of departure will be assessed a cancellation fee of:
    • Full Day 10-Hour Charter – $325 Cancellation Fee
    • Full Day 8-Hour Charter – $250 Cancellation Fee
    • 3/4 Day Charter – $200 Cancellation Fee
    • 1/2 Day Charter – $175 Cancellation Fee
  • A 50% refund will be applied for cancellations within 72 hours of departure.
  • Changes to charter date and times may be made within 15 days of departure on a space available basis.
  • Cancellation due to weather deemed by the Captain to be unsafe will be refunded or rebooked on a space available basis (but it rarely happens here in Kona).
  • No refunds will be granted if you fail to show up for your charter on the date and time of your reservation and fail to notify us of cancellation in advance.
  • Not valid toward ANY previously booked charter.
  • Charters depart Kona, Honokohau Harbor, Slip B-4. Please arrive 15 Minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
    driving directionsDriving Directions
  • All tackle and bait (if available) provided. You must bring your own food and drinks unless purchased online at time of booking.
  • Alcoholic beverages are permitted to be brought on board for those of legal drinking age.
  • A fishing license is now required for all charter participants. Click here to learn more or purchase online at https://fishing.hawaii.gov/
  • Not valid in conjunction with Kamaaina discount or any other discount offer.
  • Voucher or Gift Cards purchased through our website may be used for the purchase of this charter.
  • Hawaii Sales Tax of 4.712% will be charged in addition to the charter fee.
  • State of Hawaii Harbor Tax of 3% will be charged in addition to the charter fee.
  • An order processing fee of 3% will be charged in addition to the charter fee, extras and taxes.

***Gratuities are not included in the price of the charter and our crew always appreciates the recognition of a job well done…fish or no fish.