Blue Marlin - Fishing Kona with Kevin Hibbard

Summary of Key Points

• Captain Kevin Hibbard shares his insights on targeting blue marlin in Kona, Hawaii
• Discusses feeding times, water conditions, structure, and differences in fishing lures and baits
• Kevin's Kona program is refined through decades of experience and learning from top fishermen
• Kona offers endless possibilities, requiring anglers to be prepared for various species
• Understanding bite times, currents, structure, and water conditions is crucial for success

Captain Kevin Hibbard, a seasoned marlin fishing captain based in Kona, Hawaii, shares his extensive knowledge and experience in targeting blue marlin in this informative **In The Spread marlin fishing video**. With decades of experience fishing in Kona and learning from some of the world's best fishermen, Kevin has refined his techniques and strategies to consistently catch these magnificent billfish.

The Kona Program

Kevin Hibbard's Kona program is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the craft of blue marlin fishing. Over the years, he has sought out and learned from the most successful and knowledgeable fishermen in the industry, absorbing their wisdom and incorporating it into his own techniques. This dedication has allowed him to develop a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of targeting blue marlin in the waters around Kona, Hawaii.

For aspiring blue marlin anglers, Kevin's insights can be a game-changer. By sharing his knowledge and experiences, he can help newcomers avoid common pitfalls and mistakes, allowing them to progress more quickly in their pursuit of these magnificent billfish. His guidance can help anglers become more attuned to the subtle nuances of the sport, such as reading water conditions, identifying promising structures, and selecting the most effective lures and baits for a given situation.

Fishing in Kona is an exhilarating experience, offering endless possibilities for anglers. The waters are teeming with a diverse array of gamefish, from the majestic blue marlin to the lightning-fast wahoo and the hard-fighting tuna. However, this abundance of opportunity also means that anglers must be prepared for anything. As Kevin aptly points out, you never know what might strike your lure or bait at any given moment.

This uncertainty is what makes blue marlin fishing in Kona so thrilling and challenging. Anglers must be constantly alert and ready to adapt to changing conditions and situations. One moment, you might be hooked up to a feisty juvenile marlin, testing your skills and finesse. The next, you could be locked in an epic battle with a massive, grander-class blue marlin, pushing your equipment and physical limits to the brink. The possibility of encountering other highly sought-after gamefish, such as tuna, spearfish, wahoo, or dorado, only adds to the excitement and unpredictability of the experience.

To succeed in this dynamic and demanding environment, anglers must be at the top of their game, both mentally and physically. They must have a deep understanding of the habits and behaviors of their target species, as well as the ability to read and interpret the ever-changing conditions on the water. By sharing his insights and experiences, Kevin Hibbard aims to help aspiring blue marlin anglers develop these critical skills, enabling them to approach the challenges of Kona's waters with confidence and preparedness.

The Concept of Feeding Times

Just as humans have regular mealtimes throughout the day, fish, including blue marlin, exhibit specific feeding patterns that are influenced by various environmental factors. In his marlin fishing video, Kevin Hibbard delves into the six distinct bite times that occur each day, highlighting the significant impact of tides and the moon on these feeding periods.

Understanding these bite times is crucial for anglers seeking to maximize their chances of encountering and hooking up with blue marlin. By aligning their fishing efforts with the periods when marlin are most likely to be actively feeding, anglers can greatly increase their odds of success.

Kevin explains that the tides play a major role in determining when marlin are most likely to feed. As the tides change, they create currents that can concentrate baitfish and other prey species in specific areas, making them more accessible to hungry marlin. By studying the tidal patterns in a given location, anglers can identify the most promising times to be on the water, ready to capitalize on increased marlin activity.

In addition to the tides, the moon also exerts a significant influence on blue marlin feeding patterns. The gravitational pull of the moon affects the tides, as well as the behavior of many marine organisms. During certain phases of the lunar cycle, such as the full moon or new moon, marlin may be more likely to feed actively, as the increased tidal movement and changes in light levels can stimulate their prey to become more available.

By combining their knowledge of tides and lunar phases, anglers can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the optimal bite times for blue marlin in their chosen fishing grounds. This information can help them plan their trips more effectively, ensuring that they are on the water during the periods when marlin are most likely to be feeding.

Furthermore, by paying close attention to the specific bite times throughout the day, anglers can adapt their strategies and techniques to better match the prevailing conditions. For example, during the early morning or late evening bite times, when light levels are lower, anglers might opt for darker, more silhouetted lures to mimic the appearance of prey species in low-light conditions. Conversely, during the bright midday hours, more colorful and reflective lures may be more effective in attracting the attention of feeding marlin.

By understanding and leveraging the six daily bite times, as influenced by the tides and moon, anglers can significantly improve their chances of encountering and catching blue marlin. This knowledge, combined with a deep understanding of marlin behavior, habitat preferences, and fishing techniques, can help anglers unlock the full potential of their time on the water, leading to more successful and rewarding blue marlin fishing experiences.

Understanding Currents and Structure

Currents are a fundamental aspect of the marine environment, shaping the distribution and behavior of countless species, from tiny plankton to massive billfish like blue marlin. As Kevin Hibbard emphasizes in his marlin fishing video, understanding the complex interplay between currents, baitfish movements, and underwater structures is essential for consistently locating and catching these magnificent predators.

Blue marlin, like many other pelagic species, are highly attuned to the movements of their prey. They follow the currents that carry and concentrate baitfish, such as sardines, anchovies, and mackerel, which form the foundation of their diet. As these currents transport the bait along specific pathways, marlin position themselves to intercept and feed upon the dense schools of prey.

In addition to following the bait, marlin also seek out warm water currents, which provide them with a comfortable and energetically efficient environment in which to hunt. These billfish are known to congregate along the edges of warm water eddies and fronts, where temperature and salinity gradients create distinct boundaries between water masses. These edges often serve as highways for baitfish and other prey species, making them prime hunting grounds for marlin.

Underwater structure, such as seamounts, ridges, and drop-offs, also play a crucial role in the distribution and behavior of marlin. These structures can alter the flow of currents, creating upwellings that bring nutrient-rich water from the depths to the surface. This process fuels the growth of phytoplankton and zooplankton, which in turn attracts baitfish and other prey species. Marlin, recognizing the abundant food sources associated with these structures, often patrol the waters around them in search of their next meal.

Kevin Hibbard's extensive experience fishing around many of the world's most renowned big game islands has provided him with a deep understanding of how currents and structure influence the marlin bite. By fishing in locations such as Hawaii, the Azores, Mexico and Australia, Kevin has witnessed firsthand how the unique currents and underwater topography of each region shape the behavior and distribution of blue marlin and their prey.

Drawing upon this wealth of knowledge, Kevin is able to identify the most promising areas to target marlin based on the prevailing currents and the presence of key underwater structures. By positioning his boat in relation to these features and the movement of baitfish, he can significantly increase his chances of encountering and hooking up with blue marlin.

Furthermore, Kevin's understanding of currents and structure allows him to adapt his fishing strategies and techniques to the specific conditions he encounters on the water. For example, when fishing along the edge of a strong current, he might employ tactics such as trolling with the current or positioning his baits to drift naturally with the flow, mimicking the behavior of prey species caught in the moving water. By presenting his lures and baits in a manner that closely resembles the natural movement and appearance of baitfish in relation to the currents, Kevin can effectively trigger the predatory instincts of nearby marlin.

Kevin Hibbard's deep understanding of the critical role that currents and underwater structures play in the behavior and distribution of blue marlin and their prey is a testament to his years of experience and dedication to the craft of marlin fishing. By sharing his insights and knowledge with aspiring anglers, Kevin aims to help them develop a more comprehensive understanding of these complex dynamics, empowering them to locate and catch blue marlin more effectively in the world's premier big game fishing destinations.

Water Conditions

Water conditions play a vital role in the success of any blue marlin fishing expedition. As Kevin Hibbard emphasizes in this marlin fishing video, understanding and adapting to the specific water conditions in a given location is crucial for effectively targeting these elusive billfish.

One of the key factors to consider is water color. The color of the water can provide valuable insights into its productivity and the likelihood of encountering marlin. Blue marlin typically prefer clear, blue water, which often indicates the presence of warm, nutrient-poor currents. These waters are often found in the open ocean, far from the influence of coastal runoff and upwellings. In contrast, greener water, which is richer in nutrients, may be more likely to hold baitfish and other prey species, but may not be as attractive to blue marlin.

Thermocline depth is another critical aspect of water conditions that anglers must take into account. The thermocline is the transition layer between the warmer, well-mixed surface waters and the cooler, denser waters below. The depth of the thermocline can vary significantly depending on the location and time of year, and it can have a profound impact on the distribution of baitfish and marlin.

In areas where the thermocline is relatively shallow, baitfish may be concentrated in the upper water column, making them more accessible to marlin. In such conditions, anglers may find success by trolling their lures and baits closer to the surface. Conversely, when the thermocline is deeper, baitfish may be found at greater depths, requiring anglers to adjust their techniques and target the appropriate depth range to intercept feeding marlin.

The prevailing baitfish species in a given area can also significantly influence the behavior and distribution of blue marlin. Different regions may have distinct baitfish communities, such as flying fish, squid, or small tuna species, which can shape the feeding patterns of marlin. By identifying the dominant baitfish species in an area and understanding their habits and behavior, anglers can select lures and baits that closely mimic these prey items, increasing their chances of attracting and hooking blue marlin.

Kevin Hibbard's extensive experience fishing in diverse locations worldwide has provided him with a keen understanding of how to read and interpret water conditions to maximize his chances of success. By sharing his insights and strategies, he aims to help other anglers develop the skills necessary to adapt to the unique challenges posed by different water conditions.

For example, when fishing in an area with a well-defined thermocline and an abundance of squid, Kevin might recommend using lures that imitate the color, size, and movement patterns of these prey species. He may also suggest trolling at specific depths, based on his knowledge of where the baitfish are likely to be concentrated in relation to the thermocline.

Similarly, when encountering a change in water color or a distinct temperature break, Kevin's experience allows him to quickly assess the potential implications for marlin activity. He can then adjust his tactics accordingly, such as focusing his efforts along the edges of the color change or temperature break, where baitfish and marlin may be more likely to congregate.

By heeding Kevin Hibbard's advice and learning to read and interpret water conditions effectively, anglers can make more informed decisions when trolling for blue marlin. This knowledge, combined with a willingness to adapt and adjust their techniques based on the specific conditions they encounter, can greatly enhance their chances of success in pursuing these magnificent billfish across a wide range of marine environments.

Smart Selection of Marlin Lures and Baits

The choice of lures and baits is a critical factor in the success of any blue marlin fishing trip. In his marlin fishing video, Kevin Hibbard emphasizes the importance of selecting the right lures and baits for the specific conditions anglers encounter on the water. By sharing his knowledge and experience, Kevin aims to help anglers make informed decisions when it comes to their tackle selection, ultimately increasing their chances of hooking up with a trophy Pacific blue marlin.

Trolling lures come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, each designed to imitate different prey species and elicit strikes from marlin under specific conditions. Kevin discusses the unique characteristics of various lure types and explains how their design features can influence their performance in different scenarios.

For example, skirted lures, on the other hand, are designed to imitate the swimming action and profile of larger baitfish, such as tuna or mackerel. These lures typically feature a rigid head and a soft, flowing skirt that pulsates and undulates as the lure is trolled through the water. By selecting skirted lures in colors and patterns that match the prevailing baitfish in a given area, anglers can increase their chances of attracting the attention of hungry marlin.

By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each type of lure and how they perform under different conditions, anglers can make more informed choices when selecting their tackle for a blue marlin fishing trip. Kevin's insights and recommendations can help anglers optimize their spread, ensuring that they present a diverse and appealing array of options to any marlin they encounter.

Furthermore, Kevin's advice on lure selection takes into account the specific conditions anglers may face in pursuit of Pacific blue marlin. By considering factors such as water clarity, prevailing currents, and the presence of specific baitfish species, anglers can fine-tune their tackle choices to maximize their chances of success.

Ultimately, by heeding Kevin Hibbard's guidance and continually refining their knowledge of lures and the conditions in which they are most effective, anglers can significantly improve their odds of hooking up with a trophy Pacific blue marlin. This knowledge, combined with a well-rounded skill set and a deep understanding of marlin behavior and habitat preferences, can help anglers unlock the full potential of their blue marlin fishing experiences.

The Pinnacle of Offshore Fishing in Kona

Kona, situated on the west coast of Hawaii's Big Island, has earned a well-deserved reputation as a premier destination for blue marlin fishing. The town's location, combined with the unique oceanographic features of the surrounding waters, creates an ideal environment for these magnificent billfish to thrive.

Kona's waters are characterized by their exceptional clarity and depth, with the seafloor rapidly dropping off to several thousand feet just a short distance from shore. This deep, blue water is home to an abundant and diverse array of prey species, such as skipjack tuna, yellowfin tuna, and mahi-mahi, which attract and sustain a healthy population of blue marlin.

The availability of food, coupled with the favorable water conditions, makes Kona a year-round hotspot for blue marlin fishing. Anglers from around the world flock to this tropical paradise to test their skills against these powerful predators, which can grow to impressive sizes in excess of 1,000 pounds.

Kevin Hibbard's extensive experience and success in fishing for blue marlin in Kona's waters make him an invaluable resource for anglers looking to improve their skills and increase their chances of landing a trophy fish. His deep understanding of the local conditions, marlin behavior, and effective techniques has been honed over countless hours on the water, chasing these elusive giants.

By sharing his knowledge and insights, Kevin aims to help anglers of all skill levels elevate their blue marlin fishing game. Whether it's guidance on selecting the right lures and baits, advice on reading water conditions and identifying promising structures, or tips on hooking and landing these powerful fish, Kevin's expertise can provide anglers with the tools they need to succeed in Kona's world-class blue marlin fishery.

Tap Into This Valuable Resource of Knowledge

Captain Kevin Hibbard's wealth of knowledge and experience in targeting blue marlin in Kona, Hawaii, is a valuable resource for anglers of all skill levels. By incorporating his insights on feeding times, currents, structure, water conditions, and lure selection into their own programs, anglers can significantly improve their chances of catching these magnificent billfish.