Epic Blue Marlin Fishing in Kona

When I first started blue marlin fishing, I was fortunate to learn from extraordinarily talented fishermen. My journey to become a better angler led me to seek out true experts in blue marlin fishing, particularly those who excel at marlin trolling techniques. When I decided to film some blue marlin fishing adventures, Kona, Hawaii immediately topped my list. The waters off Kona offer the most productive blue marlin fishing opportunities in the Northern Hemisphere.

After consulting with several marlin fishing experts about who would be best to work with in Kona, one name consistently emerged: Captain Kevin Hibbard of the 2nd Offense. I wasn't interested in FAD fishing—I wanted to spend time with a master of trolling lures for big blue marlin. Captain Kevin fit the bill perfectly.

Captain Kevin: A Blue Marlin Fishing Legend

Kevin Hibbard may be unassuming, but his marlin fishing credentials are extraordinary. He has honed his craft worldwide, spending significant time perfecting his techniques in prime locations like the Great Barrier Reef, New Zealand, the Azores, Cape Verde, Cabo San Lucas, and Costa Rica. However, Kona, Hawaii has been both his home and the foundation of his fishing education for most of his life.

What makes blue marlin fishing in Kona so special is the concentration of accomplished captains there, possibly unmatched anywhere else globally. Kevin has learned from many of these marlin fishing masters, absorbing their knowledge while developing his own distinctive approach to blue marlin fishing. His deep understanding of the fishery, the behavior of blue marlin, and the tools needed to catch trophy fish made him my ideal captain for this adventure.

Learn From Capt. Kevin Hibbard

Marlin Fishing - Lure Spread Setup - Kona Style

Blue Marlin Fishing - Trolling with Kevin Hibbard

Blue Marlin - Trolling Technique with Kevin Hibbard

Kevin Hibbard displays a blue marlin trolling lure rigged with vinyl skirt

Blue Marlin - Rigging Lures with Vinyl Skirts and Sta-Stuk Hooks

Blue Marlin - Boat Driving Skills with Kevin Hibbard

Kevin Hibbard scans the horizon for signs of blue marlin

Blue Marlin – the Fundamentals of Fishing Structure

Blue Marlin - Fishing Kona with Kevin Hibbard

Hooks for Blue Marlin

Featured

Kevin Hibbard holding lures with rubber skirts and vinyl skirts

Vinyl vs. Rubber Trolling Lure Skirts for Fishing Blue Marlin

Kris Ishibashi holding a blue marlin lure rigged with Sta-Stuk hook

Rigging Marlin Lures with Sta-Stuk Hooks

From Commercial Fisherman to Marlin Trolling Expert

Like many exceptional fishing captains, Kevin started his career as a commercial fisherman and mate/wireman. This comprehensive background gives him a unique perspective on blue marlin fishing in Kona. He's handled countless big fish, both wiring them and driving the boat during the fight. When someone with this level of experience is eager to share their knowledge, it creates an incredible learning opportunity.

The 2nd Offense: The Perfect Platform for Blue Marlin Fishing

My time marlin fishing with Kevin aboard the 2nd Offense was truly exceptional. His work ethic, friendly demeanor, and willingness to share information created the perfect environment for learning about blue marlin fishing techniques. Whenever I brought up a topic about marlin fishing, Kevin would launch into detailed explanations as though teaching a master class. The wealth of information flowed effortlessly.

How a captain maintains their vessel speaks volumes about their professionalism. The 2nd Offense was immaculate—tackle, food, beverages, and all other items were perfectly organized. This attention to detail reflects Kevin's respect for his clients and his dedication to creating the ideal blue marlin fishing experience in Kona.

Mastering the Art of Blue Marlin Fishing

During my time with Kevin, we created several in-depth videos covering essential aspects of blue marlin fishing for our collection. These topics included:

Locating blue marlin in Kona waters
Understanding how currents affect blue marlin movement
Structure fishing techniques specific to Kona
Optimal atmospheric and water conditions for marlin trolling
Effective lures and spread configurations
Tackle selection for blue marlin
The crucial differences between trolling and boat handling when fighting a fish

Captain Kevin takes a refreshingly simple approach to marlin fishing. His streamlined methodology, developed through decades of experience, offers anglers a master class in efficient blue marlin fishing. The techniques he shared can dramatically improve anyone's success rate when marlin trolling in Kona or anywhere blue marlin swim.

Experience Blue Marlin Fishing in Kona with a True Master

I cannot recommend marlin fishing with Kevin Hibbard enough. If you have the opportunity to fish with him in Kona, you'll gain invaluable knowledge while having an incredible time pursuing blue marlin. I'm already looking forward to my next trip to Hawaii to fish with Kevin again.

For those serious about improving their blue marlin fishing skills, watching our instructional videos featuring Captain Kevin will provide insights that can only make your fishing more productive. On your journey to becoming a better angler, never stop learning from the true masters of blue marlin fishing in Kona.

Seth Horne In The Spread,
Chief Creator