Kahala (Amberjack / Yellowtail (Seriola dumerili) in Hawaii)

Kahala

Amberjack / Yellowtail · Seriola dumerili
NATIVE · SELECTIVE HARVEST
What is a Kahala? Kahala is the Hawaiian name for the amberjack / yellowtail (Seriola dumerili), a native Hawaiian species taken selectively by spearfishers. It inhabits open water, offshore structure, seamounts, channel passes at 20–200 ft around the Big Island, and is excellent eating.
Depth20–200 ft
SeasonMay–Oct
DifficultyAdvanced
CiguateraHigh

About the Kahala

A large, powerful pelagic species found around offshore structure and seamounts. Kahala are aggressive hunters and will follow other fish to the surface. Excellent eating when bled immediately. Can carry ciguatera, so check local advisories.

How we hunt them

Kahala are often found with other large pelagics. They are bold and will approach divers. Use a reel gun with strong line. Bleed immediately after the shot to improve flavor and reduce any toxin concentration. On the Kona coast, deep water sits close to shore, so we find them along steep drop-offs and ledges within reach of a shore dive.

Rules & regulations

No statewide size or bag limit. Ciguatera risk is elevated, so avoid fish over 20 lbs from certain areas. Consult local advisories.

Source: DLNR DAR · Verified July 2026 · Always confirm current rules with Hawaiʻi DLNR

Non-residents age 15+ also need the Hawaiʻi nonresident marine fishing license (HAR 13-74-11). Buy it online or see our regulations guide.

Hunt Kahala with a guide

Every Top Shot Spearfishing dive covers species ID, regulations, and technique. Beginners welcome.

Group Dive · $299Private Dive · $449+