Phantom Sportfishing
Phantom Sportfishing runs private sportfishing charters from Kailua-Kona aboard the Phantom, a 40-foot Gamefisherman Express based at Honokohau Harbor.
Phantom Sportfishing is located at Lahaina Harbor and specializes in private deep-sea charters that reach productive blue water within minutes of clearing the breakwall. You step aboard the 38-foot Bertram Phantom, greet a U.S. Coast Guard–licensed captain who has fished Maui waters for decades, and watch twin diesel engines settle into a steady rumble as outriggers swing into trolling position.
Half-day and ¾-day trips suit families or first-time anglers who want four to six hours of action without committing to a full marathon. The crew sets a spread of skirted lures that entice mahi-mahi, ono, yellowfin tuna and the occasional blue marlin. When a reel screams, you clip into a stand-up harness or settle into a cushioned fighting chair, coached through each pump and retrieve until color flashes at the transom. Bottled water, soft drinks and light snacks ride in the cockpit cooler, and breakfast pastries or deli wraps can be ready with advance notice.
Full-day expeditions push west toward Penguin Banks or south past the Alenuihaha Channel, patrolling ledges where 1,000-pound "grander" marlin are always a possibility. Heavy 80- and 130-pound tackle stands ready, and the crew tags and releases billfish for conservation while table fish chill on ice for filleting back at the dock. Up to 50 pounds of cleaned catch is yours to take; vacuum-sealing and shipping services are available for visitors without freezer space.
Family-friendly light-tackle charters stay closer to buoy lines that hold small tuna and skipjack year-round. The captain rigs 30-pound gear, teaches keiki how to work the rod butt and keeps an eye out for spinner dolphins that feed on the same bait balls. All safety equipment meets current USCG standards, and ginger chews ride in the tackle drawer for motion-sensitive guests.
Your charter includes rods, reels, lures, bait, ice, reef-safe sunscreen and professional fish cleaning. The air-conditioned salon offers a dinette, galley and clean marine restroom; a shaded cockpit and broad transom keep non-anglers comfortable during the troll. Children six and older are welcome with life jackets fitted on the spot.
Paid harbor parking lines Wharf Street, and check-in is fifteen minutes before departure at the harbor gate. Wear soft-soled shoes, bring polarized sunglasses and let the crew handle licenses, gaff work and trip logistics.
Ready to swap shoreline views for bent rods and reel drag? Reserve a private charter with Phantom Sportfishing, then explore the full catalog of Maui tours and activities to round out an island day that runs from sunrise bite to sunset sail.
Phantom Sportfishing Experiences
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