Deep sea bottom fishing for Queen Snapper, or Onaga as it's known in Hawaii, can be an exciting and rewarding experience for anglers who enjoy offshore fishing. Here are some tips to help you with your Onaga fishing trip:
Equipment: For Onaga fishing, you'll need a heavy-duty fishing rod and reel that can handle the weight of your line and your catch. Look for a reel with a high line capacity, a strong drag system, and a powerful motor. You'll also need a sturdy fishing rod, with a high line weight capacity, and a strong fishing line. Braided lines are a good choice for deep sea bottom fishing because they are durable and have low stretch.
Bait: Onaga are carnivorous and will feed on a variety of baitfish, including squid, mackerel, and octopus. Using fresh bait is key to attracting Onaga, so be sure to bring enough to last throughout your fishing trip.
Location: Onaga can be found at depths of 200-1000 feet and are often associated with underwater structures and seamounts. Look for areas with steep drop-offs and structure on the ocean floor using a fishfinder.
Technique: Once you've found a good spot, drop your bait to the bottom and slowly reel it up a few feet at a time. Pause and let the bait sit for a few seconds before repeating the process. This technique can be effective for catching bottom-dwelling fish like Onaga.
It's important to remember that deep sea fishing can be challenging, and safety should always be a top priority. Make sure to wear appropriate safety gear, including life jackets, and familiarize yourself with emergency protocols before heading out to sea.
Overall, deep sea bottom fishing for Onaga can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, but it's important to be prepared with the right equipment and safety precautions to make the most of your time on the water.