Uku — Gray Snapper / Green Jobfish (Aprion virescens) in Hawaii

Uku

Gray Snapper / Green Jobfish · Aprion virescens
NATIVE · SELECTIVE HARVEST
What is an Uku? Uku is the Hawaiian name for the gray snapper / green jobfish (Aprion virescens), a native Hawaiian species taken selectively by spearfishers. It inhabits reef edges, drop-offs, mid-water above structure at 20–150 ft around the Big Island, and is excellent eating.
Depth20–150 ft
SeasonApr–Sep
DifficultyAdvanced
CiguateraLow

About the Uku

A highly prized open-water and reef-edge species. Uku are fast, powerful, and excellent eating. They school in mid-water above reef structures and drop-offs. One of the most sought-after spearfishing targets on the Big Island.

How we hunt them

Uku school in mid-water and are best approached with a slow, patient descent. They are curious and will often circle a stationary diver. Use a long gun (110cm+) and aim for the head. Best hunted at deeper reef edges and channel mouths.

Rules & regulations

No statewide size or bag limit. Ka'ūpūlehu Marine Reserve: Uku may be taken by hook-and-line seaward of 20 fathoms only.

Source: HAR 13-60.4 · 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 online or see our regulations guide.

Hunt Uku with a guide

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

Group Dive — $299Private Dive — $449+