Roi
About the Roi
An invasive species introduced to Hawaii in the 1950s. Roi are aggressive predators that have devastated native reef fish populations. Spearfishing Roi is actively encouraged by DLNR as part of invasive species management. We never eat roi — it's one of the fish most associated with ciguatera in Hawaiʻi. Every roi we remove is processed into organic fertilizer through our Reef to Root program instead of reaching a plate. More on that on our ciguatera guide.
How we hunt them
Roi hold in caves, under ledges, and around coral heads — look for the distinctive blue-spotted pattern. They are not easy to approach: years of removal pressure have made them skittish. Take a strong kick off the surface, then hit your sink phase as soon as you can, so you are actively sinking at the fish. Keep your profile as small as possible, and shoot the moment the fish is in range.
If a roi spooks, it will run for its preferred hiding spot — grunt, and it may turn around and give you the shot. Once it goes into the hole, it gets trickier: you need to get down and look back into the hole to draw it out for a shot.
Rules & regulations
INVASIVE SPECIES — no size or bag limit. Spearfishing Roi is encouraged to help protect native reef ecosystems. Do not release back into the water.
Non-residents age 15+ also need the Hawaiʻi nonresident marine fishing license (HAR 13-74-11) — buy online or see our regulations guide.
Hunt Roi with a guide
Every Top Shot Spearfishing dive covers species ID, regulations, and technique — beginners welcome.
Group Dive — $299Private Dive — $449+