To‘au (Blacktail Snapper (Lutjanus fulvus) in Hawaii)

To‘au

Blacktail Snapper · Lutjanus fulvus
INVASIVE · REMOVAL ENCOURAGED
What is a To‘au? To‘au is the Hawaiian name for the blacktail snapper (Lutjanus fulvus), an introduced species targeted by spearfishers to protect native Hawaiian reefs. It inhabits rocks, caves, ledges on shallow reef at 5–60 ft around the Big Island, and is excellent eating.
Depth5–60 ft
SeasonYear-round
DifficultyBeginner
CiguateraLow

About the To‘au

An introduced snapper competing with native species for food and habitat. To‘au doesn’t consume as many reef fish as the roi, but every one removed helps the reef, and the upside is that it’s great eating. Generally found near rocks, caves, and darting under ledges, to‘au are fast and skittish.

How we hunt them

Use the reef as cover. A coral head between you and the fish pays off. They hold near structure and dart under ledges when pressured; a patient, quiet approach beats the chase every time.

Rules & regulations

INVASIVE SPECIES: no size or bag limit. Removal is encouraged. Do not release back into the water.

Source: HAR 13-52 · 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 To‘au with a guide

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

Group Dive · $299Private Dive · $449+