Lawai'a issue 13 by Lawai'a Magazine

$3.95

ISSUE NO. 13

Rody Dasalla’s 92lb Ulua On Barbless Circle Hook

Barbless Stick Sensei • Maka Ko‘a Land Marks • Po‘o Nui

Trophy or Lomi O‘io Bonefish

If you recover a tagged o‘io call 265-4962 Be prepared to provide the following critical information: 1. Your name, address, and telephone number. 2. Capture date, island, and fishing location. 3. Tag number. 4. Fork length – measure from tip of the nose to “V” in the tail. 5. There are 2 species - Sharp Jaw Albula virgata which has a bright green/yellow dot under the pectoral fins, and Round Jaw Albula glossodonta has no green/yellow dot.

Reward

HONOR THE FISHERMAN. RESPECT THE FISH.

In return for your valuable information, you will receive a free special edition t-shirt featuring original artwork (seen above) by artist and fisherman Mike Sakamoto.

For More Information

150 Hamakua Dr. PBN# 430 Kailua, HI 96734

Ph: 808 265-4962 Web: fishtoday.org

Restaurant & Fish Market Restaurant & Fish Market • Homeport of our fishing fleet & the Honolulu Fish Auction

On Pier 38 On Pier 381129 • Homeport our fishing fleet & Honolulu Fish Auction N. NimitzofHwy. • Honolulu, HIthe • 808-540-1377 1129 N. Nimitz Hwy. • Honolulu, HI • 808-540-1377 nicospier38.com Like us on Facebook nicospier38.com Like us on Facebook

contents

ISSUE THIRTEEN SUMMER 2013

Sections 9 / INSIDE 10 / E HOIKE MAI 12 / WHAT IS HFACT? 14 / TOURNAMENTS

24 / YOUR FAVORITE? 26 / DEAN’S DRIVE INN

36 / FISH STORIES

30 / SHORELINE TECH

38 / WHAT IS IT?

32 / POI POUNDA SERIES

52 / PIFG KOA

34 / CHECK THIS OUT

56 / EVENTS 60 / KELA A ME KEIA

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

Features 40 / STICK SENSEI 44 / MAKA KO‘A (LAND MARKS) 46 / PO‘O NUI

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

STERLING KAYA

22 / AUNTY KWONG’S KITCHEN

Inside I S S U E

T H I R T E E N

S U M M E R

2 0 1 3

Publisher Pacific Islands Fisheries Group

Hawaii’s Premiere Alaska Fishing Destinations • Anchor Point Lodge • Shelter Lodge

Editor Pacific Islands Fisheries Group pacificfisheries@gmail.com Design Darin H. Isobe > Art Director darini@hawaiiantel.net Director of Marketing + Advertising Marc Inouye lawaiamag@gmail.com

THE START OF SUMMER kicks off the tournament season and the anticipation of annual runs of various fish species. Ulua season is in full swing after an unusually higher than normal report of kagami papio catches this past spring. If the early success of ulua catches are any indication, this season should be a very good one. Anglers are also eagerly awaiting the runs of halalu and oama that usually occur later in the summer season. Fishermen hope that Mother Nature’s control of the powers that be - currents, rainfall, ocean temperatures, etc. - are favorable and bring our islands the right combination of each for a bountiful year. Whether they fish or not, many island residents anticipate the local bounty that the ocean provides. The joy of catching, sharing, and eating fish that the summer season brings each year sustains and reinforces our local culture. It can’t get any better than eating healthy, fresh, locally grown fish that come straight from Hawaii’s waters.

Advertising Suzanne Eugenio kaicomm.eugenio@gmail.com

GO ON AN

Alaska Reel Adventure!

Contributing Writers Brendt Chang, Tyler Ciccone, Charles Cintron, John Clark, GT Fight Club LLC, Carl Pao’o Jellings Sr., Neil Kanemoto, Kurt Kawamoto, Brian Kimata, Lawai‘a Editorial Board, Ed Sugimoto and Shayne Stambler.

The Pacific Islands Fisheries Group is in full planning mode for the Hawaii Fishing and Seafood Week’s activities which culminates with the 8th Annual Hawaii Fishing and Seafood Festival. Each event during HFSF Week shares and celebrates our Island culture and tradition of fishing and eating seafood. Remember to check for more information about the Hawaii Fishing and Seafood Week activities in this and future issues of Lawai’a and on PIFG’s website (www.fishtoday.org) and Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/fishtoday).

Reservations & Info (808) 551-1993 info@alaskareel.com $3.95

ISSUE NO. 13

Barbless

Rody Dasalla’s 92lb

Ulua

a Ko‘a Land Marks Stick Sensei • Mak

ON THE COVER: Rody Dasalla’s 92lb Ulua caught on barbless circle hook.

• Po‘o Nui

Letters and Comments email: pacificfisheries@gmail.com Salmon • Halibut • Black Cod • Rockfish Dungeness Crab • Alaskan Spot Shrimp

Lawai‘a Magazine Every attempt is made to publish Lawai‘a 4 times a year. Printed by DMS Hong Kong. www.Lawaia.net

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

BRAD GODA & TAMMYTAKIMOTO

Consultant Fluid Media Publishing www.fluidmediahawaii.com

Access We are fortunate here in Hawaii as our beaches and shorelines are considered public property and therefore administered by the State. Established by our State Constitution, the right to access the shoreline extends to every citizen. The late Chief Justice, William Richardson, reinforced that right by defining the shoreline: “Seaward boundary is along the upper reaches of the beach front where vegetation or a debris line exists.” Over the years, there have been differing interpretations and the definition has been wrangled with by lawmakers attempting to help clarify it for legal purposes. However, if you enjoy fishing, dealing with public access to the shoreline can be confusing. Finding access can sometimes be almost like a game of hide and seek. Each island has its own issues and some have unique arrangements for allowing public access. Beaches with high shoreline or nearshore activity levels prompt increasing regulation of allowable commercial and recreational activities as user conflicts arise. Even our harbors are experiencing increased use from new

recreational and commercial ocean goers competing for designated trailer parking, public parking, ramp time, wash down facilities, and slip space. For purposes of this editorial, we are focusing on Oahu since it is the most densely populated and developed of the islands. While there are very clearly marked rights-of-ways in many areas of Oahu such as Kahala and Ewa Beach, access points in other areas are not as evident. Another persistent problem that arises at many of the designated public right of ways is the lack of public or other parking in the immediate area which is another restriction to the spirit of free public access. Some unmarked public rights-of-way are even left to look like they are private or restricted. This is often the case with access ways that are actually private land but have long been used by the community as traditional rights-of-way to get to the shoreline. In circumstances such as moving of the Koolina boat ramp from one side of the harbor to the other left Oahu boat users scratching their heads as to why the change. One special circumstance preventing public access to the shoreline is land controlled by the Federal Government. While the most visible and largest example is for military purposes, there are also many other large sections of shoreline and offshore waters made inaccessible due to Homeland Security (i.e. airports, harbors, fuel and energy related facilities, etc.) The more that you know about your public access rights and where public access is provided, the more opportunities we all have in our fishing endeavors. The following are some on-line resources from various agencies and organizations related to shoreline access. Unfortunately, they all pertain to Oahu and Maui as at this time there are no similar resources for other neighbor islands that Lawai’a knows about. If our readers are aware of other resources, please send them along and we’ll include them in future issues. In the meantime, we hope you find what we have provided as useful towards understanding more about shoreline access. University of Hawaii, William S. Richardson School of Law, Law Library, History of Chief Justice William Richardson’s landmark rulings: http://law.hawaii.libguides.com/content.php?pid=299627&sid=2457322 Sea Grant, University of Hawaii: Public Access Rights http://seagrant.soest.hawaii.edu/public-access-rights City and County of Honolulu, interactive maps, Shoreline Access Points, including Public Right-of-Ways: http://cchnl.maps.arcgis.com/home/gallery.html# Maui shoreline access information: http://mauimapp.com/information/shoreline.htm http://www.mauimapp.com/information/shoreinfo.htm http://seagrant.soest.hawaii.edu/maui-shoreline-access State of Hawaii, Various Maps http://planning.hawaii.gov/gis/various-maps/ Let’s strive to be Lawai’a, Hawaii’s fishermen, and commit to being responsible when using our ocean resources,by understanding and practicing resource conservation, by sharing our knowledge, and by showing others that being involved in its management shows commitment to maintaining and improving our shared resources for the future.. Lawaia Editorial Board

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

Oni & Kaleb Savella 7.2 lb Omilu Al Sevellino 7.5 lb Nenue

Todd Motoyama Oio

Reno Young 17 lb Onaga

Hanalei Adric 44 lb Ulua

SEND US YOUR PICS Ronald Mendoza and Chancetin Boyd 5 lb Samoan Crab

KYLE NAKAMOTO

Sammy Kawakami 1st Weke

Greg Hee Ulua

Email digital photos as jpg files. Please take pics at your highest setting possible. Email jpg photos to: lawaiamag@gmail.com Include all info please. All pics sent become the property of Lawai‘a Magazine.

Brian Catron Ulua

Marcus Chun 12 lb Paopao

Ryan Yamamoto 111 lb Ulua

Mike Murray 60lb Hebi

Noah and Abe Akau Taape

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

The Ears and Voice of Hawaii’s Fishermen

ou may have seen a new organization greeting you at recent fishing and ocean related events such as the Hawaii Ocean Expo and the Hawaii Fish and Dive Expo. We hope you got to meet members of Hawai‘i Fishermen’s Alliance for Conservation and Tradition, Inc. (HFACT) and were able to talk story with this group as they are a wealth of knowledge and experience. But if you didn’t, please keep an eye out for them at future public events. As their mission statement below explains, HFACT was created to be a representative of the fishing community in the world of often complicated fishing related issues that require participation of fishermen. But, as our representative, HFACT needs all of our support to be effective. MISSION: Provide and promote the interests of fishermen through education, information, advocacy, improved economic efficiencies, and representation with aunified voice.

Hawai‘i Fishermen’s Alliance for Conservation and Tradition, Inc.

VISION: Consistent application of statistical data, science, empirical data, and common sense actions contributing to harvesting rights, access, and the continuance of cultural practices and traditions in balance with conservation, thereby ensuring resources for current and future generations of fishermen. GUIDING PRINCIPLES: • A strong collective voice ensures fishermen are effective participants in the complex processes of rulemaking, fisheries science, harvesting and access. • Fishermen provide primary solutions to a sustainable food source and effective management of our marine and aquatic resources. • Education, communication, and collaboration among all fishing participants are priorities.

Lawai‘a- Gear Guys Visit the following stores to get your fishing supplies and next issue of Lawa‘a Magazine. BIG ISLAND/HAWAII J. Hara Store 17-343 Volcano Hwy. Kurtistown, HI 96760 808-966-5462 S. Tokunaga Store Inc. 26 Hoku Street Hilo, HI 96720 808-935-6935 www.tokunagastore.com KAUAI Lihue Fishing Supply 2985 Kalena St. Lihue, HI 96766 808-245-4930 lihuefishingsupply@yahoo.com MAUI Maui Sporting Goods 92 Market Street Wailuku, HI 96793 808-244-0011 New Maui Fishing Supply 1823 Wells Street #4 Wailuku, HI 96793 808-244-3449 newmauifs@clear.net West Maui Sports & Fishing Supply 843 Wainee Street #F3 Lahaina, HI 96761 808-661-6252 wmauispt@maui.net

COVER TO COVER FISHING LIVES HERE

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LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

OAHU Brian’s Fishing Supply 1236 S. King St. Honolulu, HI 96814 808-596-8344

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Hana Pa’a Fishing Co. 1733 Dillingham Blvd. Honolulu, HI 96819 808-845-1865 He’eia Kea Pier 46-499 Kamehameha Hwy. Kaneohe, HI 96744 808-235-2192 Kaya’s Fishing Supply 901 Kekaulike St. Honolulu, HI 96817 808-538-1578

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Nanko’s Fishing Supply 46-003 Alaloa St. Kaneohe, HI 96744 808-247-0938 Nervous Water Fly Fishers 3434 Waialae Ave. Honolulu, HI 96816 808-734-7359 POP Fishing & Marine 1133 North Nimitz Hwy. Honolulu, HI 96817 808-537-2905 www.pop-hawaii.com Sawada Store 132 N. Cane Street Wahiawa, HI 96786 808-622-4861

Charley’s Fishing Supply, Inc. 670 Auahi St., #A10 Honolulu, HI 96813 808-528-7474 www.charleysfishingsupply.com

Waipahu Bicycle & Sporting Goods 94-320 Waipahu Depot Street Waipahu, HI 96797 808-671-4091

Ewa Beach Buy & Sell 91-775 C Papipi Road Ewa Beach, HI 96706 808-689-6368 www.ewabeachbuyandsell.com

Westside Dive & Tackle 94-615 Kupuohi Street #103 Waipahu, HI 96797 808-228-2295

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ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

Tournament

THE HOSHINO “CATCH-OF-A-LIFETIME” TOURNAMENT BY MATT HOSHINO • PHOTOS BY STERLING KAYA

Fishing has always put a smile on my face.

he experience of introducing or accompanying someone to my favorite outdoor activity will forever be a valuable part of my life. I have fished in many parts of the world, but my most rewarding fishing adventure started in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I became a general dentist after graduating from the University Of Pittsburgh School Of Dental Medicine in 2002. After seven long years of applying and patiently waiting, I was finally offered a position as an endodontic resident and returned to the University of Pittsburgh. I was excited to achieve my goal of becoming an Endodontist, but did not know I was on my way to my “catch-of-a-lifetime.” I started the day like any other, thinking of my stomach. There was a dental school picnic near my apartment that was serving free hotdogs,

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

burgers, and beer… an offer I will never refuse. I could not be happier as I was sitting alone on a bench away from the crowd finishing my fifth hotdog, third burger, and seventh beer. I heard a sweet voice that I thought said, “I know you. I see you in the dental school.” I did not respond since my mind was still thinking of food and my stomach was reacting with punishing pain. Then I heard, “Excuse me, I am talking to you!” Struck by her beauty, I mustered the best one-liner I could think of and asked, “Uh… you talking to me?” Hsiao-Ling (with two hands up in the air) shouted, “Yeah, I’m talking to you! There is NOBODY else here!” After looking around and realizing that we were the only two people within an earshot from each other I replied, “Oh, sorry… What’s your name?” She answered, “Hsiao…” After a brief hesitation, I asked, “What?” She reluctantly repeated, “HSIAO…” I did not know what she was saying since

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

my ears were full of beer and her name was very unusual. I did not want her to repeat herself a third time so I asked, “Spell it?!?!” She said, “I’ll probably confuse you more if I spell it for you, BUT it is spelled H… S… I… A… O…” After a longer pause, I hesitantly whispered, “What?” Then she belted, “My name is Hsiao-Ling, like Shaolin Temple…” I countered, “Oooohhh, like in the Kung Fu movies! Since I will probably forget your misspelled name… your new name is Master Shifu!” Hsiao asked in confusion, “What is that?” With a huge goofy smile, I replied, “It’s from the best movie ever, Kung Fu Panda!!!” Hsiao came back with, “Who watches that?!?!” Realizing that I was crashing and burning, I decided to change the subject by asking what her ethnicity was. By this time Hsiao was aggravated from my unintentional insults and made me guess. I felt confident with this challenge because I am from Hawaii, the melting pot of the Pacific. I told her, “I know all about Asians.” Using my keen sense of deductive reasoning, I began with, “Well… I know you’re not Japanese, so you must be… Korean!” Hsiao barked, “You are wrong!!! I’m Taiwanese!” At this time I was panicking and blurted out the first thing that I could think of, “Oh, I love Thai food!” I don’t know how my first impression did not ruin any chance of a future date, but Hsiao had set a hook in me that I chose not shake loose. We could both say that fishing was the vessel we took to fall in love and were engaged to be married a year and a half later. Hsiao graduated from the dental program in 2012, and earned a position in the same endodontic program I completed. As an endodontic resident, she was given time off to attend the 2013 American Association of Endodontists Annual Convention that rotates to Hawaii every 6 years. The Saturday of the convention was a perfect day for our wedding as several of our instructors and classmates were planning to be in Hawaii. Because of the intense and demanding endodontic program at University of Pittsburgh and knowing that Hsiao has never been to a wedding in Hawaii, I asked Hsiao if I could be in charge of the entire wedding. I knew it would be difficult for Hsiao to plan a wedding in Hawaii from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and I am surrounded by many friends who would unselfishly lend a hand, provide great advice,

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

and participate in a wedding that Hsiao deserves. I started my wedding planning by setting goals: 1. Meet Hsiao’s family and introduce them to mine. 2. Eat a lot of good food. 3. Entertain the guests. And 4. Take Hsiao fishing. I had a plan to use our love of fishing to accomplish all of my goals on the day after our wedding. We had over forty guests from as far as Taipei, Taiwan and Hampton Bays, New York who spent a lot of time and money to travel to Hawaii and I thought it would be a shame that these family members and friends will fly thousands of miles just for a wedding. With the help of fishing friends who attended the wedding, I added The Hoshino “Catch-Of-A-Lifetime” Tournament to the wedding plans. Hsiao and I thought it would be fun to entertain the out-of-town guests by putting them on a fishing boat to experience Hawaii on the ocean, catch a fish to create life-time memories, and feel the excitement of fishing with some of the most successful, caring and passionate people. The site of the tournament was the Ke‘ehi Lagoon Boat Harbor since the guests were staying in Waikiki. The rules were simple:

dangerous. Everyone knows that there is no guarantee in any fishing trip and I wanted each of my guests to have something to take with them to remember the tournament; so I made two trolling lures for each of the guests, one as a souvenir and another as a gift for their captain. These lures were to be rigged that day in order to compete for the grand prize. My fishing partners will tell you that it is hard to catch fish with a Hoshino lure and whoever does should be awarded a special prize. The weather was perfect with light winds and calm seas. Ten teams went in different directions, fish hit the decks, and everyone returned safely to the harbor to enjoy a Hawaiian food dinner. The newly united family members and friends celebrated together as Hsiao announced the winners and awarded them their prizes, an ornamental koa wood fish hook. I could not have wished for a better way to celebrate the beginning of a life with Hsiao. Fishing partners for life.

Teams: 1. Darren Kai – Mento Oriento 2. Reid Yamashita – Hanapa‘a Fishing Co. 3. Stuart Bailey – Thrill Seeker 4. Jon Wai - Calamansi 5. Dana Sato – Dani Girl 6. Joey Kekoa – Kaylyn K 7. Mike Souza – Sachi K 8. Larren Tang - N/A 9. Christopher Yawata - Touche 10. Rod Yoshikawa - Pryde Guests: 1. Ryan Paik 2. James Li/Jason Li 3. Richard Li/Tim Li 4. Alexander Choe/Amanda Li 5. Dr. Matt Kremser/Gary Kremser 6. Dr. Hsiao-Ling Hoshino/Dr. Matt Hoshino 7. Dr. Bob Queale 8. Dr. Christine Smith 9. Chih-Tsung Shen/Leeza Glorioso 10. Dr. Shawn Pobiner/Kurt Listiak

Results 1. Largest Fish on a Hoshino Lure – 142.2 lb. Ahi (Amanda Li) Centennial, CO 2. Largest Flag Fish – 21.9 lb. Mahi (Hsiao-Ling Shen) Pittsburgh,PA 3. Largest Ono – None Caught 4. Largest Mahi Mahi – 21.5 lb. (Kurt Listiak) Phoenix, AZ 5. Largest Aku – 9.8 lb. (Dr. Christine Smith) Pittsburgh, PA 6. Smallest Flag Fish – 4.1 lb. (Chih-Tsung Shen) Denver, CO 7. Largest Reef Fish – Kaku (James and Jason Li) Taipei, Taiwan 8. Longest Reef Fish – Trumpet Fish (Dr. Bob Queale) Greensburgh, PA 9. Largest Reef Fish with Red Scales – Weke ula (Richard Li) Centennial, CO 10. Ugliest Fish (Hsiao-Ling will Judge) – Oio (Timothy Li) Centennial, CO.

1. Fishing starts at 7:00 A.M. 2. Boats must be back in the harbor by 4:00 P.M. 3. All fish must be legal size according to Hawaii Regulations. 4. One winning fish per category. 5. Be safe and have fun. I made different categories to accommodate the captains who wanted to troll for pelagic fish and those who wanted to target reef fish: 1. Largest Fish on a Hoshino Lure (Grand Prize) 2. Largest Flag Fish 3. Largest Ono 4. Largest Mahi Mahi 5. Largest Aku 6. Smallest Flag Fish 7. Largest Reef Fish 8. Longest Reef Fish 9. Largest Reef Fish with Red Scales 10. Ugliest Fish (Hsiao will Judge) As a hobby I make trolling lures during my free time when the weather makes fishing too

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

Tournament

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

PHOTO STERLING KAYA

The weigh-in audience and Hawaii Ocean Expo attendees at the Blaisdell Exhibition Hall were anxious and restless as tournament entrants pulled fish from their coolers to weigh. The crowd was abuzz with word that a very big fish was caught and going to be weighed.

PHOTO DEAN SENSUI

GT MASTERS ULUA TOURNAMENT

Lucky angler Prestin Maze and his 100.4 lb first place ulua. Prestin’s catch was the first 100 lb plus fish to be weighed for the prestigious tournament and, for that, he won a significant bonus along with his fantastic first place prizes. ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

Tournament

PHOTOS STERLING KAYA

2013 GENE HIGA MEMORIAL SPEARFISHING TOURNAMENT

LAWAI窶連 MAGAZINE

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

Aunty Kwong’s Kitchen

Santa’s Nabe (Hot Pot) Makes: 4 servings Ingredients: Fish and Veggies: • 1 small (2 lbs) gindai • 1 small (2lbs) opakapaka • 1/2 pound napa cabbage • 1 negi (Japanese scallion) • 1/2 block firm tofu • 1 pkg (3 1/2 ounces) enoki mushrooms • 1 pkg (3 1/2 ounces) shimeji mushrooms Broth: • 4 cups dashi stock • 4 tbsp usukuchi (light shoyu) • 2 tbsp mirin JESSE VICTOR AND RACHEL SAMSON

Shime (the finish): • 4 ounces uncooked udon noodles • 2 cups cooked white rice • 1 slightly beaten egg Directions: Prepare the fish: Filet the fish and slice it into 3/4-inch pieces. Set aside with the head portion. Prepare the veggies and tofu: Cut the napa cabbage into 2-inch wide pieces. Trim the root off the negi and slice the whites and greens at an angle into 2-inch pieces. Cut the tofu into 2” pieces. Wipe off any dirt from the enoki and shimeji mushrooms with a damp paper towel. Trim the root and separate the mushrooms. Arrange the fish, veggies, tofu and udon on a platter. Combine the broth ingredients, pour into a nabe pot and bring to a boil. Add the cabbage, negi, tofu, and both mushrooms, arranging each ingredient into separate neat bunches. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 5 minutes. If necessary, press the ingredients into the broth as they simmer so they cook uniformly. Place the fish slices on top of the other ingredients. Simmer until the fish is cooked through, 3 to 5 minutes, skimming off any “kasu” or foam/froth that forms.

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Serve the ingredients with the broth into individual small bowls. After most of the hot pot ingredients have been eaten, add the udon to the remaining broth and bring to a boil over medium heat. Simmer the udon for three minutes, or until cooked and serve. After the noodles have been eaten bring remaining broth to a boil and add the rice and the egg, Cook until the broth thickens and the egg is cooked and serve. Notes: You may substitute any of the ingredients to suit your taste. ie. shitake mushrooms and other greens may be added.

A big mahalo to Hideaki “Santa” Miyoshi, Executive Chef at Tokkuritei for providing this recipe.

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

Your Favorite

Fish to Eat?

“Supporting Fishing and Our Youth” THE MIKE SAKAMOTO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP & FISHING CHALLENGE Mike Sakamoto was a tireless advocate for the fishing and diving communities. When Mike passed in 2009, The Mike Sakamoto Memorial Scholarship was created for graduating high school seniors and graduate students who are interested in marine sciences or helping sustain Hawaii’s marine resources.

Chevy Lopes: “Fried Mahi!”

The scholarship funds are generated through the Mike Sakamoto Memorial Fishing Challenge and participating state-wide boat and shoreline tournaments. Jonna Otto & Helen Merrick: “Ono, light egg batter,

Nathan Kim: “Roi, steamed with green onions.

pan fried with garlic and butter.”

I catch it and cook it myself!”

2012 Scholarship Recipients

DON'T ASSUME.

Know these Facts

ABOUT FEDERAL FISHERIES MANAGEMENT IN HAWAI‘I

• Regulations can differ for state waters (0 to 3 miles from shore) and federal waters (seaward of state waters), yet the same fish stocks and fishermen can be found in both jurisdictions. Consistent and coordinated management is the ideal scenario. This does occur in the management of the popular deep-water bottomfish in the main Hawaiian Islands (the Deep 7), resulting in the annual catch quota for these species growing over the past six years from 178,000 to 325,000 pounds.

Ecosystem-Based Management of Fisheries in the US Pacific Islands For more information and to get involved in the management of federal fisheries, go to www.wpcouncil.org.

Entrants can win tournament prizes and also be entered to win grand prize trips with an annual drawing at the Hawaii Fishing & Seafood Festival.

• The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council was established by Congress with authority over federally managed fisheries for Hawaii, American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and the Pacific remote island areas. The Council provides a public and scientific process to help ensure that commercial and non-commercial fishermen can provide consumers and communities with fish forever. The plans and amendments developed by the Council are transmitted to the Secretary of Commerce for approval, implemented by NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service and enforced by the NOAA Office of Law Enforcement, the U.S. Coast Guard 14th District and local enforcement agencies.

• No foreign fishing occurs or is allowed to occur in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ, 3 to 200 miles from shore) around Hawai‘i. While the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act allows for foreign fishing through Pacific Insular Area Fishing Agreements in other parts of the Western Pacific Region, no such agreement is in place.

Andrew Hanano

Caitlin Strickland

Carson Young

Lindsey Caldwell

Mikayla Pico

• Only one fishery in the Western Pacific Region is overfished. The Hancock Seamount groundfish fishery in the northernmost point of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands was overexploited by foreign vessels prior to the establishment of the Council. The Council has had a moratorium on this stock since 1986. • The Council has initiated numerous landmark conservation measures for fisheries. – In the 1980s and 1990s, it prohibited potentially destructive fishing gear including bottom trawling, pelagic drift gillnets, demersal longline, purse seining and others throughout the US EEZ in the Western Pacific Region. – The management regime developed by the Council for the Hawai‘i longline fishery is considered a global model for sustainable pelagic fishing. It is the first pelagic fishery to limit entry and require daily logbooks; first fishery to require satellite vessel tracking; and first Pacific fishery with a fleet limit on sea turtle interactions.

To apply for the scholarship or find more information of participating tournaments go to www.fishtoday.org or like us on Facebook.com/fishtoday.

www.wpcouncil.org 24

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

HO OK CO OK D EA N ’S

D RIVE

INN

Island Fresh Shutome with Ginger, Butter & Capers ($12.95)

Rack of Lamb (3 pc - $14.95)

Whenever I travel anywhere new, I always make sure that grinding at the local hot spot is on the agenda. And although Kaneohe is not exactly traveling, buggah is far for me so getting to the Windward side these days is almost like going on a trip.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY ED SUGIMOTO 26

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

Kualoa Ranch Homemade 7 oz. Hamburger Steak ($9.50)

Surf & Turf: Ahi Cakes & Teri Beef Combo ($12.95) - Their most popular dish. ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

But like the chicken from KJ’s, poke from JJ’s, and okazu from Masa & Joyce, Dean’s Drive Inn in the Adon Plaza building off Kamehameha Highway has built a cult-like following for its fresher than fresh seafood and ono kine grindz. Making the trek is well worth it. Behind it all is a local boy, shoreline fisherman and Castle High graduate Dean Mishima. Mishima caught the culinary bug and started cooking back in 1975. Ironically, between cooking and fishing, he ended up becoming a fishing game warden at Kaneohe Marine Corps Base. Mishima’s last job before opening up Dean’s Drive Inn back in 2006, was as Executive Chef for 19 years at the old Liberty House in Ala Moana Center. One weekday afternoon, Lawai‘a’s Marc Inouye, Sterling Kaya, “Aunty Kwong” and I made our way through the Koolaus to try Dean’s dishes first hand. Here’s a peek at what and we pounded. The parking and accommodations at the Adon Plaza are not the greatest (small parking lot with no bathrooms on premise), but one bite of Dean’s mean eats will no doubt bring you back on this trek time and time again. Dean’s Drive Inn • 45-773 Kamehameha Hwy Kaneohe, HI 96744 • (808) 247-1300

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

Shoreline Tech B Y B R I A N K I M ATA

Question: What is the correct procedure for setting the drag on a fishing reel? How much tension should there be? Answer:

tapers. Using this formula, the maximum drag setting on 12lb. test line

have thin diameters with high breaking limits. You may also want

would be roughly 3 lbs. of tension. This being said, I know most of you

to consider how much line is out of the reel at the time of the

out there adjust your drag tension by pulling on the line directly out

strike and the angle of the rod and line to the water as well. It is

of the reel. This is where your skill and experience will come into play.

often difficult to get an ideal angle when spiking your rod in a rocky

This may work in some applications but, as the reel and the line gets

shoreline and a steep rod and line angle is akin to “high sticking” a rod which could lead to a broken rod as it bends upon itself.

This is an excellent question and one we

called “knuckle busters.” On a modern conventional reel, the drag

larger, you’ll find this to be quite inaccurate. In my store, I’ll sometime

answer quite often in the store. Before we proceed with how

system is also a critical component of the anti-reverse system,

have this discussion with people that have been surfcasting for a

much tension is required, we need to first discuss how a drag

allowing the spool to pay out line without the handle rotating

while and when we check their drag settings on a scale, a surprising

system works and what it does.

backward. It is both a brake and a clutch, allowing an independent

amount of people under-“guesstimate” their settings significantly.

operation of the handle assembly.

Correctly setting the drag by “guesstimation” on a large trolling reel

Your fishing reel, whether it’s a spinning or conventional reel, has a drag system built into the reel. Without it, we would be

The drag system is merely a way of controlling the line as it

quite limited in how large a fish we would be able to catch. Simply

leaves the reel under tension. It is adjusted by a knob, a star

Now that we have established how high we can set our drag, we

put, we would be limited to the strength on the line itself and,

wheel, or a lever on the reel. Adjustability is the key to the

need to address the original question: What do we set the drag

without anything to buffer the shock or strength of the fish’s

system as anglers may use many differing line classes, or fish in

tension at? Keep in mind that non-IGFA rated fishing lines (and that’s

pull, our fishing line would break on a large or powerful fish.

many differing situations. The main purpose here is to allow line

the vast majority out there) have breaking strengths greater than the

Back in fishing’s early years, before the invention of the fishing

to leave the reel before it breaks under tension. But how much

manufacturer’s labeled rating. Many lines also stretch significantly

reel, anglers would use long flexible rods to absorb the pulling force

tension is the right amount? The answer is… it depends. The more

and this characteristic makes a line more difficult to break under

of a hooked fish. The rods would flex, acting like a buffer, taking

important question here is: “What is the maximum setting that I

tension as well. You will also have to take into account the rating of

the shock off of the line. If the fish were large, they would simply

should be using?” since the maximum setting isn’t always the

your rod and reel itself, particularly when using braided lines that

toss their rods in the water and have the fish tire by pulling the rod

optimal one. The accepted practice, and the one I was taught

around. If you were lucky, you’d be able to retrieve the rod and the

many years ago, is to set the drag while the line is strung thru

fish later. Well, you’d have to be pretty lucky and I don’t think there

the rod with the rod held at a 45 degree angle. The line is then

were many ulua caught that way!

tied to a scale at a distance away at least the length of the rod.

The first fishing reels were a major improvement over the long

Using the scale, the drag tension should be set at 25 to 30% of

rod. Early reels could let out line before they broke but had no

the line’s breaking strength. It is important to note here that the

system to pay out the line under a controlled resistance. They had

line is strung through the rod as this changes the tension on the

no drag system. These were called Direct Drive reels. In essence

line significantly from a measurement taken directly at the reel.

they were conventional reels with a spool tied in directly to the

This is particularly true on rods that are longer and have slower

handle via the gears. As a fish took line, the angler would control the tension with his thumb against it, often with less than ideal results. If you thought your burnt thumb from a backlash was bad, imagine a huge fish on a sustained run with your finger trying to slow it! If that weren’t bad enough, Direct Driven reels had no anti-reverse system and the handle would spin wildly backward as the line paid out. It is for this reason that these early reels were

is almost impossible.

Safe and sound.

The accepted practice, and the one I was taught many years ago, is to set the drag while the line is strung thru the rod with the rod held at a 45 degree angle.

In calm seas and rough waters, we’re proud to stand behind Hawaii’s fisherman and fishing industry, helping you navigate your dreams, your business and your future.

Today’s tip: As the amount of line outside a rod decreases, so does its ability to resist breakage. There is simply less stretch and give involved. When running high drag tensions, many anglers break off fish near them as their quarry make a sudden and last run for freedom. If this hap-

l e a r n m o r e . Call 844-4444 or visit any branch.

pens to you, try pointing the rod at the fish as he runs. Remember, drag tension is lower directly out of the reel and this may be just enough to keep the line from breaking until you can get some distance

Yes, We Care.

between you and the fish. Good Luck!

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

FHIB-26286R28_6-75x4-75_v2.indd 1

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013 6/27/13 3:20 PM

Poi Pounda Series FOR GT FIGHT CLUB LLC

GT FIGHT CLUB LLC is proud to announce that we are now an agent for Heru Lures. We will be offering a wide range of lures for GT Popping or whatever fish you may be targeting with surface lures. We are very excited to be given this opportunity and hope you are too as these lures will now be available locally through GT FIGHT CLUB LLC. Our lures will be branded under the GT FIGHT CLUB name but will still be identified by the current Heru line up such as Cubera, Skipjack, Wahoo, etc. We are also excited to introduce a new color from Heru made especially for GTFC which we call the “Poi Pounda Series.” The “Poi Pounda” brings back one of Hawaii’s favorite colors: the all black body with red eyes. We have this color scheme on the Cubera and Skipjack. The “Poi Pounda” Ulua and Wahoo stick baits are painted black backs-white belly-silver sides. For more information please contact GTFChawaii@gmail.com.

Hawaii’s Home For Poke

2013 FIRST PLACE

Proud to be voted Hawaii’s Best Poke for four years in a row!

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

Check This Out P H OTO S B Y S H AY N E S TA M B L E R

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

eel catches a‘ama crab

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

Fish Stories

BY TYLER CICCONE

BY BRENDT CHANG

Grabbing the kali Vilmar Magday and I went for an after work/after school dive and

opelu kala, la’i, and schools of opelu swimming around

weren’t finding much for the first couple hours. All of a sudden, I

all over the place, I figured there was a chance of

heard screaming in the distance and saw Vilmar waving his gun back

something big coming around, or perhaps even some

and forth out of the water. After swimming up to him, Vilmar whipped

blue water fish showing up. However, my eye caught

out a moana kali from behind his back and my eyeballs hit the lens

some movement as a small omilu swam under me with

of my mask.

a moana kali right next to it. I dropped to the bottom

At this point, I saw a small nenue house in the distance. I swam to

and pulled the rubber up on my Lance Ohara 10 foot,

it and decided to wait and see what would come around. Eventually

three prong spear. A quick scratch on the rock and a

there was a cloud of nenue and some menpachi were even coming

couple grunts turned the moana kali on a dime. It sped

out of the cracks to peek up at me. With the addition of some large

towards me and then slowed up. As it turned broad-side in front of a small bit of coral, I let go of the spear. Being a new set of prongs, they weren’t spread yet and all three went through the eye socket of the fish and into the coral behind it, stunning the fish. After finally grabbing the kali, I got a real sense of its size and we both decided to call it a day to weigh our fish. My fish turned out to be 3.87 lbs with Vilmar’s only

A channel crosser Clay Tam, PIFG Bottomfish Tagging Project coordinator, received this note and photos from volunteer tagger, Capt. Brendt Chang F/V Dana. Clay, I’m totally STOKED! I caught a fish the other night outside of Sandy Beach and didn’t notice the tag till yesterday morning. The tag was full of limu so I knew the fish had been at liberty for some time. I scratched off the limu and saw the tag number was H5010 and thought that the numbers looked oddly familiar. I went into my database today and found out it was my tag! The fish was caught, tagged and released off the Honolulu corner of The Banks on November 2, 2010. It grew from 12” fork length to a 17.5” fork length in the 2 years and 4 months at liberty and, more importantly, it’s a channel crosser! Approximate distance traveled 10 miles, grew 5.5” at liberty for 867 days.”

about a half pound smaller. No records, but it’s a real treat to even be in the water with fish like this swimming around. Remember, no fish is worth staying that extra second on the bottom and there will always be another out there waiting for you. Lastly, dive safe and most importantly, have fun!

Tagging information: Tag number:

H5010

Species:

Opakapaka

Date tagged:

11/2/2010

F.L.measurement:

12”

Location:

Penguin Bank, Honolulu side

Recovery information: Date:

3/18/2013

F.L. measurement: 17.5” Location of capture: East Oahu, Sandy Beach side Brendt took the paka to Tokkuri Tei for dinner.

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

What Is It BY KURT KAWAMOTO

yellow anthias

Our next subject was caught by Big Island fisherman, Wes Murakane, on the F/V Kaimana III. Wes says he catches this fish quite often when bottomfishing for opakapaka. This fish was also easily identified as an Odontanthias fuscipinnis, also commonly known as the yellow anthias. Although it doesn’t look like a grouper it is in one of the subfamilies of groupers found in Hawaii. The distribution range is listed as Hawaii and Johnston Island. This is another small species (to 9.5”) with a relatively small mouth that has been reported to have been caught in deep water. John Randall’s identification book reports that they have been found in 141-853’. In general the deepwater fisherman’s hooks are usually too big to easily or consistently catch this species. Wes’ fish was really unlucky as it bit a big #22 Maruto BKN hook!

threadfin perchlet

PHOTO WES BOTTOMFISH 01-14-13

One of our subjects comes from a recent catch made by Eddie Ebisui III while fishing for onaga. The colorful fish was easily identifiable as a threadfin perchlet (Plectranthias kelloggi). The published habitat information lists rock or sand bottoms in the 30 – 200 fathom range. Its distribution is reported to be only from the Hawaiian Islands. This one was caught in the Kaena Point, Oahu area while fishing in 150-160 fathoms while targeting onaga. Generally this fish is infrequently caught by deep bottomfish fishermen. It is probably more common than we think because of the large hook sizes used and the small overall size of this fish. Eddie’s fish measured 10” and is the largest I have seen. Most are in the 4”-5” range. Responding to identification requests for this fish is an annual occurrence. Although the requests come in every year the information on each catch such as the length, weight, fishing depth, area caught, and date are valuable and help to validate existing information or expand and add new knowledge about this species. 38

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

Maka Ko‘a (land marks) B Y C A R L PA O ’ O J E L L I N G S S R

D E D I C A T E D

At a young age, I learned of land marks or Maka Ko‘a. I really didn’t know what

T O

H E N R Y

P A O ’ O

J E L L I N G S

Knowledge of maka ko‘a was handed down and taught from within the ‘ohana (family), from lawai‘a to

my father was talking about but when he spoke to my uncle over the radio, he mentioned landmarks in almost all of their conversations. My dad always knew exactly where my

lawai‘a.

uncle was. With deep sea fishing in those days many miles from shore, we didn’t have the modern navigational aids we have today. It was hard to pin point your position by giving a single point. When you were trying to find someone that was having engine trouble, it was important to be as accurate as possible. If you could put someone within 2 or 3 miles of your position, you were usually easily picked up and towed in, although, that wasn’t always the case. I remember my dad asking me over and over “How far are we? Where are we?” I answered as best I could. He’d make little comments about intersecting points and the sea’s horizon’s depth fronting Wai‘anae’s land mass and I listened. Now that I’m writing this, it’s dawned on me how we were both so in sync with our position. At 16 I learned my father’s feel for points and distances. He was preparing me just in case something happened to him and I didn’t even know it. Most of the maka ko‘a my dad used for position were intersecting hills and mountain ridges. To estimate distance, he used water tanks, high rises and the smaller

mountains, like Lahilahi, Ma‘ili, Kea‘au and Ka‘ena.

Expert lawai‘a had many ko‘a, or “fish houses,” locked away in their

Today, the GPS makes navigation child’s play but during

heads. On different currents there were different ko‘a. For ‘opelu fishing

ancient times, head fishermen were so attuned with their

during the day, bottom fishing or palu ahi fishing, it was all about knowing

surroundings, including current and wind chop. The head

the most feasible or productive maka ko‘a for that day’s fishing.

lawai‘a calculated his fishing by adjusting and readjusting,

In the seventies and eighties while diving and scouting for new ko‘a,

by being Makakilo (observant, focused) and Makako‘a

coming across and finding a good ko‘a for us meant taking maka ko‘a. We

(conscious of his landmarks).

weren’t fast, but the marks we chose were meant to last forever. We took

Knowledge of maka ko‘a was handed down and taught

our time in choosing things that were unlikely to change over time; things

from within the ‘ohana (family), from lawai‘a to lawai‘a.

that were obvious and easily recognizable. We did this the same way our

These marks were kept in one’s head and were not spoken

fathers did it, by photographic thought, and, like our ancestors, we never

of to anyone. Another way was if one were experiencing

wrote them down.

good fishing on unfamiliar grounds, the lawai‘a quickly

Today, I share these skills with my sons as my father did with me.

took his maka ko‘a, memorized them and utilized those

They’ve learned that maka ko‘a can be as accurate as the GPS. But mostly,

marks until the fishing slowed or ceased. These marks

it’s been an unforgettable period in my life, watching them hone their

were never forgotten as it had now became a part of a

skills and progress as I share with them the many ancient arts of the

photographic thought process .

lawai‘a; one being Maka Ko‘a.

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

STICK SENSEI

Meet Yukinobu Shibata. In Japan, he is known as a professional skier, explorer, hotelier, restaurateur and professional fisherman. In Hawaii, he is known as the STICK SENSEI. B Y : N E I L K A N E M O T O • P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F Y U K I N O B U S H I B ATA

reenstick fishing has been known to Hawaii fishermen since the early 70’s. Mainly used for ahi fishing, stick users know that anything can bite the rig. Its an innovative technique where a long mainline, running up to 150-300 yards and ranging from

500lb-1200lb. test, is towed from an oversized outrigger or “greenstick”. These greensticks range from 25’ to 50’ tall and are used to suspend the mainline which is kept taut by an enormous 4-foot-long wooden “bird” that’s trolled at the end of the line. From this mainline, 4-8 baits are suspended from leaders and, if set up properly, the baits are not trolled, but rather made to dance in and out of the water in a “dipping” motion. Like an outrigger, the mainline breaks away from the greenstick during the strike, leaving the angler to haul

“original” greenstick fishery in the Shikoku area of Japan.

in the mainline using hydraulic or electric reels, a modified

The Shikoku fishermen were searching for a method to troll as

130lb class trolling rod and reel or even by hand. The strikes

many baits as they could around the bait balls that attracted

are often dynamic and explosive with 200lb. plus ahi often

buri (yellowtail) and other species. These innovative fishermen

leaping clear out of the water in attempts to grab the dancing

were said to have developed the greenstick technique

baits. Double and triple-strikes on this rig are not unheard of

by attempting to mimic the technique of New Guinea kite

either! Ahi are known to attack the jumping baits with great

fishermen, which allowed their baits to dance in and out of

ferociousness as rubber squid baits literally get destroyed by

the water with incredible results. The Shikoku fishermen

missed-strikes.

successfully replicated this technique utilizing long green

The origins of greenstick fishing, however, remained

bamboo poles (hence the name greenstick) instead of kites,

muddled for years as stick fishing was utilized by only a

and in doing so were overly-successful. The rig worked so well

handful, with some keeping the technique secretive to say

that large hon-maguro (bluefin tuna) would jump on the baits

the least. Over the course of the year, we’ve been fortunate

and break their poles!

to interview Shibata-san and not only dissect the history of

Enter Yukinobu Shibata. He and fellow fisherman, Tokuda-

greenstick fishing, but learn about his colorful career as well.

san, recognized the problem and collaborated with an

Born in Otaru, Japan, Shibata’s accomplishments and

acquaintance, Hamaguchi-san, who manufactured specialty

adventures are numerous. In the world of skiing, he was

fiberglass products that included katsuo (aku) poles and

not only a member of the National Team, but a renown ski

outriggers. Together, they developed a heavy-duty sectional

instructor who operated one of the premier skiing schools in

fiberglass pole that to this day is still known as a greenstick.

Japan. He owned and operated a hotel in the Niseko region,

Shibata and Tokuda also enjoyed fishing in Hawaii and

known as one of the top ski destinations in all of Asia. Perhaps

knowing of Hawaii’s big yellowfin ahi, brought the first greenstick

his most noted accomplishment to date is being the first man

to Oahu in 1973. Luckily, Shibata had a friend whose boat could

to ski down the highest mountain in Africa, 19,000+ foot Mount

serve as the test platform for their Hawaii pilot project. Their initial

Kilimanjaro, in December of 1969. Being an avid fisherman also,

fishing expeditions were so successful that 10 more greensticks

it’s no surprise he also owned and operated a premier seafood

were soon shipped to Hawaii. In 1975, Shibata and Tokuda brought

restaurant in Hokkaido, the Shin Sei.

3 sticks to Kailua-Kona and developed partnerships to import

Despite all his passions however, fishing remained first and

Shibata in Hokkaido posing with a greenstick 42

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

Shibata 186kg (409lb) Hon-maguro (Bluefin tuna) valued at 1,000,000 yen at the time.

more greensticks into Hawaii.

foremost. He became what is known in Japan as a “professional

Over the years, Shibata and Tokuda developed relationships

fisherman,” often times being called upon to consult on a

with many Hawaii anglers and charter captains, not only

multitude of fishing techniques in various regions.

teaching the technique but learning of other fishermen’s

When asked of the history of the greenstick, Shibata

stick-fishing innovations along the way. Kona charter captain,

explains that in the 1960’s he became involved with the

Bomboy Llanes, who runs both the Vixen and Shibata’s own

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

“Total balance” is what Shibata claims to make greenstick fishing work. Everything from the composition of the stick, down to the design of the bird has to be in complete balance for the baits to “dance” properly. boat the Lana Kila out of Honokohau Harbor, says of Shibata,

but, to date, no one has been successful. “Total balance”

“He’s always willing to teach anyone.” Another Big Island

is what Shibata claims to make greenstick fishing work.

fisherman Wes Murakane states, “Shibata is a very humble

Everything from the composition of the stick, down to the

and patient man. It’s evident he has a passion for greenstick

design of the bird has to be in complete balance for the baits

fishing for ahi in Hawaii.”

to “dance” properly. Many greenstick users may fully agree

The technique did not stay just in Japan and Hawaii for

with his claim.

long however. In the 1980’s, the first greenstick made its

Shibata, being your prototypical fisherman, was never satisfied

way across the U.S. to North Carolina where it found great

and always looking for innovations. In the late 1990’s and into

success. The technique even caught the attention of the

the 2000’s, Shibata worked with manufacturer Hamaguchi-san

Portuguese Government who invited Shibata to consult on

to incorporate new carbon-fiber and composite materials and

this unique fishing method. Since then this fishing technique

develop what he now calls the Hawaiian Hybrid. This new carbon-

has spread from the East Coast, all the way down to Mexico’s

fiber/composite stick he says is “the one.” Right now there are

Baja Peninsula and even to Central America! Shibata recently

about a half-dozen of these new poles being fished around the

invited a guest from Tahiti to stick-fish with him and foresees

Kona area but Shibata states, “Just wait… there will be more...”.

a visit to French Polynesian in the near future.

The name Hawaiian Hybrid, in retrospect, may actually be a tribute

So if the style was so successful, why didn’t more fishermen fish the technique? One assumption is that it’s not just the

to Hawaii, given his fondness and Aloha for the Islands and ahi fishing in our waters.

cost, but the stick is just plain huge. “Hey dad – why don’t

Sadly, Shibata-san’s longtime partner in greenstick design,

we mount a 34’ oversized outrigger on our 24’ Skipjack?”… “

Tokuda-san, passed away in the 1998, but Shibata continues

Seriously??? ..” Shibata simply explains, “Not many did it right.

his visits to Hawaii to vacation, fish for ahi and teach the

And no one really wanted to teach the style.” But for those who

greenstick technique. So as greenstick fishing spreads

did do it right.. well… you may see those sticks being handed

throughout the world, Shibata’s greatest accomplishment

down from generation to generation.

may not be his conquest of Mount Kilimanjaro, but rather his

Over the years, the greenstick took on several design

building legacy as the stick sensei.

variations. Even the color changed from the original green to a purple (lavender) color. When asked why purple, Shibata laughs and says “the manufacturer, Hamaguchi-san, likes the color!” Other manufacturers attempted to replicate the greenstick

Shibata with Ahi 44

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

Po‘o Nui and the Poi Pounda BY CHARLES CINTRON

Meet Po’o Nui and the GTFC Poi Pounda.

While boosting, the angler feels the hooks bend and pull (notice you can already see bent hooks); this fish feels big.

GT Popping is the dream that with one rod and one lure you can make a cast and battle with a fish of a lifetime. When you make that cast will you be ready? Win or lose you will remember it forever.

What is GT Popping about? Why would someone cast a six to seven ounce lure for hours waiting for one bite? One of the most frequent questions among GT Popping anglers are, “What did the strike look like?” followed by, “How was the fight? And how long?” Why do they ask that? It’s because that’s what GT Popping anglers dream about. Pictures speak a thousand words and these images showcase what happens when angler and fish meet with one thing in mind: break each other’s will to fight. Meet Po’o Nui, a GT built to break fishermen and their dreams of glory. The angler fishes with the GTFC “Poi Pounda”, a remake of the classic Hawaiian popper: black with red eyes. His rod of choice, the Saltywater

After a massive strike, the fight is on; hold on until the run stops.

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

Tackle Race Point 200, paired with the Shimano Stella ‘08 10000SW; the equalizers in this fight.

Trust your gear and finish it; Race Point 200 still has a lot of power left and the Stella 10k working overtime.

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

Pictures speak a thousand words and these images showcase what happens when angler and fish meet with one thing in mind: break each other’s will to fight.

He’s just about pulled the rear treble out and starting a tail thrust to break the will of the angler and make him give up.

The fight is almost over.

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

51” of Hawaiian GT. Two out of 6 barbs left that were not straightened during the fight.

Time to send him home.

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LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

PHOTOS STERLING KAYA

PIFG KOA Bottomfish Cooperative Research – One down, One to go! The first of two 2013 Gear Calibration Research Cruises is in the fishbox. The Pacific Islands Fisheries Group (PIFG) completed the first Gear Calibration Cruise in April 2013. PIFG worked with NOAA Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC), through a Cooperative Research Grant, to continue evaluating different methods and tools to improve the Main Hawaiian Islands (MHI) Deep 7 bottomfish fishery stock assessment. Fishermen worked hand-in-hand with scientists to collect critical fishery data for later analysis by PIFSC to support an updated assessment. During this cruise, fishermen and observers recorded catch per unit effort (CPUE) data, collected bio samples from Deep-7 species and tagged & released over 100 bottomfish. PIFG observers also shared ship time with scientists on board the research vessel Oscar Sette, exchanging information on reading bathymetric information, currents and other environmental factors to find productive fishing areas. While on board the Oscar Sette, observers learned about the latest remote sensing technology being used to monitor bottomfish, including Simard EK60 sonar, Automated Underwater Vehicle (AUV) and Remote Observing Vehicle (ROV). PIFG also assisted scientists in collecting bottomfish bio-samples at night which included the recovery of a tagged opakapaka. The recaptured opakapaka was caught by scientific crew member Jessica Chen. The opakapaka was originally tagged in the same general area in 2012 by Maui fisherman, Layne Nakagawa. It was later determined that the fish was at liberty for 128 days and grew 1 centimeter. Great weather and outstanding communications made this cooperative research cruise a huge success. Special Mahalo to Chief Scientist Donald Kobayashi, PIFSC scientific staff, PIFG vessel captains Gary Dill, Layne Nakagawa, Nathan Abe, and PIFG observers Bob Moffitt, Eddie Ebisui III and Scott Eguchi.

Boy Scouts Makahiki – Four years ago, the Boy Scouts of America celebrated their Centennial Makahiki at Ala Moana Park. They solicited PIFG to assist them with obtaining their Fishing Merit Badges. Four years later, On April 27th, 2013, PIFG and its generous volunteers from the Waialua Boat Club, Kaka‘ako Kasting Club and Atlapac Fishing Club answered the call and were back again to assist! Every year, these members of the fishing community bring knowledgeable volunteers to teach scouts how to tie specific types of knots and learn about various types of fishing techniques, lures, gear and baits to help the scouts qualify for their Fishing Merit Badges. For the scouts that already new how to fish, it was easy but for those who were novices or just learning, it was an exciting new experience! Again, a big mahalo goes out to the Boy Scouts of America for doing another great job with their 2013 Makahiki! Pacific Islands Fisheries Group looks forward to helping teach our scouts about the traditions and heritage of fishing in Hawaii.

RAY HILBORN PROFESSOR SCHOOL OF AQUATIC AND FISHERY SCIENCES, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON

An evening with Ray Hilborn – Ray who? That was the common response when PIFG announced that it was sponsoring an evening presentation by Ray Hilborn at the Harbor View Center on March 27th, 2013. But for those in the know, those who have kept up on the national and international battle on fisheries management, overfishing, assessments and the status of our fisheries resources, the mention of Ray Hilborn coming to Honolulu for a public speaking engagement brought intrigue and excitement. A professor at the University of Washington, Hilborn is one of the world leaders exchanging jabs on the status and trends of world fisheries. To recap his presentation here would do it an injustice. Everyone who cares about fishing and our ocean resources should check out his presentation on the PIFG website www.fishtoday.org. Mahalo to Dean Sensui for recording Hilborn’s presentation and making it available for those who could not attend. Here are a few teasers from it to pique your interest:

• Fishermen, when given the right incentives, can solve any bycatch problem… • US fisheries management is no longer to promote fisheries, create jobs or put food on the table, it is to end overfishing… • Majority of the fisheries in the US are okay or rebuilding and only a minute proportion are in trouble… • The carbon footprint for fisheries is not as big as domestic meat production or agriculture which also has huge impacts on biodiversity… • Layers of environmental laws such as Endangered Species Act, Marine Mammal Protection Act and National Environmental Policy Act on top of the MagnusonStevens Act make it impossible for U.S. fisheries to harvest at maximum sustainable yield levels… • We as a society need to redefine our fisheries management objectives. That is not a decision for the federal government to make for the State of Hawaii or any other State in the U.S. Mahalo again to Professor Hilborn for sharing his view with the Hawaii fishing community. Also Mahalo to the Hawaii Fishermen’s Alliance for Tradition and Culture (HFACT) for hosting the event. Other sponsors included the Harbor View Center, Hawaii Seafood Council, Hawaii Longline Association, POP Fishing and Marine, United Fishing Agency and Western Pacific Fishery Management Council.

If you’d like to step up and take personal responsibility, PIFG encourages you to take the pledge – the Fishermen’s Pledge for the Future. Whether you are an individual, family, club or organization, The Pledge confirms your commitment of responsibility for your fishing practices and activities.

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

Hawaii Fishing and Seafood Festival Week –

Lawai‘a Subscription Drive –

Save the Week – October 5-13, 2013! This year, the Hawaii State Legislature joins the Pacific Islands Fisheries Group in recognizing and celebrating our long and storied traditions of fishing and seafood in Hawaii. The 2013 Legislature passed a resolution to designate October 5-13, 2013 as Hawaii Fishing and Seafood Festival Week! Mark your calendars for the upcoming events: Saturday, October 5, 2013 – Second Sea-To-Me Tasting Event PIFG will again partner with Hawaii’s community college culinary arts programs to bring Hawaii’s fresh island fish to our local seafood connoisseurs. This ticketed gala will feature teams of culinary art students in partnership with Hawaii’s esteemed professional chefs. Watch for more details on the PIFG website www.fishtoday.org. Friday-Sunday, October 4 to 6, 2013 – Fishing for Hawaii’s Hungry Institute for Human Services will be the beneficiary of the fish caught and donated from the PIFG Fishing for Hawaii’s Hungry fishing tournament. In last year’s inaugural tournament, almost 700 pounds of tuna, marlin, ono, mahi and other pelagic fish were donated to feed Hawaii’s hungry. This year’s tournament will again feature awesome prizes, including a trip for two to Las Vegas, gold trolling reels and other fishing gear. Sunday, October 6, 2013 – The PIFG and Mike Sakamoto Memorial Scholarship Keiki Art Contest More than 1000 entries from across the State and from all grade levels were received and judged in last year’s Keiki Art Contest. This year, the contest will again benefit participating schools and the kids who submit their works of art. The contest theme will be “Share Hawaii’s Ocean.” Watch for this contest as the new school year starts and for more details, visit the PIFG website at www.fishtoday.org. Sunday, October 13, 2013 – Hawaii Fishing and Seafood Festival The week of fishing and seafood festivities will culminate in the 8th annual Hawaii Fishing and Seafood Festival that will, as always, be held at the Honolulu Fishing Village on Pier 38. This year’s Festival will again feature fresh seafood, exhibitors, fishing and ocean product vendors, informative displays, keiki games, demonstrations and entertainment. Manoa DNA and the United States Air Force Band will anchor the main stage, along with Festival veterans Kenny Endo Taiko Center of Honolulu, Keiki Palaka Band and the Namaka O Pu’uwai Aloha Halau. Join us at this FREE community event. Free parking with shuttle service from the Honolulu Community College is provided. The first 300 keiki under 12 will receive a free bamboo fishing pole.

Mahalo to all you Lawai‘a Magazine supporters and especially those who signed up for a one or two year subscription at the March Hawaii Fish + Dive Expo and the April Ocean Expo. Congratulations to the winners of the Lawai‘a subscription drive who received two free round trip interisland tickets on Go! Airlines. The subscription drive continues through 2013 so look for our ad in this issue of Lawai‘a Magazine or email PIFG at pacificfisheries@gmail.com. Sign up today to have Lawai‘a sent to you directly for $24.00 for one year or $44.00 for two years.

Calendar Of Events July 6, 2013

August 16-18, 2013

October 6, 2013

Garden Island Trollers Fishing Tournament Kauai Mike Sakamoto Memorial Scholarship

Hawaii County Parks and Recreation Ohana Shoreline Tournament Hawaii

The PIFG and Mike Sakamoto Memorial Scholarship Keiki Art Contest TBD

September 1-2, 2013

October 13, 2013

Family Feud Oahu

PIFG 8th Annual Hawaii Fishing and Seafood Festival Fishing Village, Pier 38, Honolulu

July 14, 2013 Hilo Trollers July Tournament Hawaii Mike Sakamoto Memorial Scholarship

July 19-21, 2013 Kauai K-Mart Tournament Lihue, Kauai

July 20, 2013 New Hope Hawaii Kai Keiki Tournament Maunalua Bay, Oahu

BRAD GODA & TAMMYTAKIMOTO

July, 2013

September 28-29, 2013 National Hunting and Fishing Day – Koko Head Shooting Range Oahu

October 25-27, 2013

August 29-September 1, 2013

October 31, 2013

Hilo Trollers Labor Day Tournament Hawaii

Halloween Shootout Lahaina, Maui

October 4-13, 2013

November 1-3, 2013

Hawaii Fishing and Seafood Week

Atlapac Obake Shootout Fishing Village, Pier 38, Honolulu

S. Tokunaga 2013 Taape Contest Hawaii

October 5, 2013

Kakaako Kasting Club Oio Tournament Fishing Village, Pier 38, Honolulu

August 4, 2013

Sea to Me Tasting Event TBD

November 8-10, 2013

October 5-6, 2013

Oahu Transit Services Tournament Fishing Village, Pier 38, Honolulu

Hilo Trollers/Hawaii Islands Contractors Assoc./Bank of Hawaii/ Honsador Scholarship Tournament Hawaii

August 4-10, 2013

Fishing for Hawaii’s Hungry Tournament Fishing Village, Pier 38, Honolulu

November 16, 2013 Hawaii Yacht Club Do or Die Tournament

54th Annual Hawaii International Billfish Tournament Hawaii

To learn more about the Pledge or discuss how the Pledge can further benefit you and/or your organization, visit www.fishtoday.org, call or email a PIFG representative at 808-265-4962 or www. pacificfisheries@gmail.com.

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

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FISH + DIVE EXPO G

Hawai‘i’s largest Freediving and Spearfishing expo was even bigger with the addition of fishing related products, gear and services. The expo also featured seminars by popular figures and industry leaders in the sport of fishing and diving.

PHOTOS STERLING KAYA

The inaugural Hawai‘i Fish & Dive Expo in March 2013 brought over 3,500 outdoor enthusiasts and 65 vendors into the Blaisdell Center. The event promoted industry leaders in fishing, diving, hunting, boating, kayaking and marine. Don’t miss the 2014 Hawai‘i Fish & Dive Expo on March 23, 2014 at the Blaisdell. More details www.facebook.com/FISHandDIVE.

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

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FISH + DIVE EXPO We are OC16’s top-rated show for the second year in a row thanks to you!

Dedicated to Hawai‘i’s fishing community

HF&D has been awarding certificates to all the winners of various fishing and diving tournaments throughout 2013. Each tournament category winner is eligible for the Champions Prize Package. A winner, or winners, will be drawn at the 2014 HF&D event at the Blaisdell. The HF&D Expo created the contest in order to give back to the fishing community, encourage tournament participation and to promote the HF&D Expo throughout the year. More details www.facebook.com/FISHandDIVE. 58

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TSUTOMU AD FNL.indd 1

4/29/12 10:14 AM

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

B Y J O H N C L A R K • P H OTO B Y ST E R L I N G K AYA

When I joined the Honolulu Fire Department in 1972, my first assignment was Kahuku Fire Station, where a plantation house served as our station. After nine months, the department transferred me

In June 2010, I was surprised to see an article about

down the road to Hauula Fire Station. During my year

Kaluakauwa in Ka Wai Ola, the newsletter of the Office

there, I talked to many of the older residents and learned

of Hawaiian Affairs. The story was called “A fish teaches

some of the Hawaiian names for different places in

a fisherman a lesson.” Kau‘i Sai-Dudoit, the project

their community, including the large wetland behind the

manager for Ho‘olaupa‘i, which is the online archive of

station. They called it Kaluakauwa, or “the hole of the

Hawaiian language newspapers, had found the article and

servant,” and told me it was the home of a mo’o, a water

asked her friend Puakea Nogelmeier, a Hawaiian language

spirit. Although the wetland was completely overgrown

professor at U. H. Manoa, to translate it. OHA ran both the

with hau trees, apparently in former times it had been

Hawaiian text and the translation in Ka Wai Ola, and I kept

vegetation-free and a popular fishing area for the local

a copy in my files.

residents. A small intermittent stream runs from the wetland, past the station, and empties into the ocean.

Several months ago Lawai‘a asked me if I had any stories about people eating fish, and I remembered the Kaluakauwa article, so I checked with Kau‘i and

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

ISSUE THIRTEEN 2013

Puakea and received their permission to use it, including the

is in my nose.” Disgusted, I pushed aside the ridge of his nose and

translation. In the story that follows the writer uses the term

it was indeed stuck all the way inside the nose. [He said] “I may be

aholehole to mean small juvenile fish, not large adults. Today

in trouble.” I said, “Jehova is the god who comes quickly in times of

we use aholehole to mean both, but back in the day ahole was

distress. You go and pray to God. I think it will come loose.” I returned

the term for adults and aholehole the term for juveniles.

with a saddened heart and I told our group that an aholehole had gotten stuck in Nuhi’s nose, [one] he ate through his mouth, which

Ka Nupepa Kuokoa. 14 December 1867. The Kuokoa. Greetings to you. I will not complicate or

palate and went all the way into the nose.

extend the conversation. On the 2nd of September, Helena,

He prayed and when the prayer was finished, he blew his nose really

Kahualole, and Hana (f), from Waianae, went with Isebotesa

hard and it loosened and came out. Praise be the name of the Lord, “Life

Nuhi (m) to go fishing in the stream here in Kaluakauwa,

is blessed by God.” My own preference would be the wild fish, the shark.

at perhaps 12 noon. We caught fish, amaama, oopu, and

Hey, let’s be watchful. Don’t do like Nuhi, lest you choke and be in trouble.

aholehole, and then Helena, Kahualole, and Hana came back,

Don’t rush to eat an aholehole that is still twitching, [or] it will be the

but Nuhi stayed with me because I had arrived there.

aholehole that does the chewing.

The two of us fished, and when our gourd holder was filled

As for the size of this aholehole, it was two inches from the head to

with oopu and aholehole, I wanted to fish in the fish pond.

the tail, and one inch wide. This fish has been sent along to the Kuokoa

Nuhi lingered behind me. It turns out that he reset our net,

office so that the friends of the royal town might see it, and maybe it

and snared an aholehole, whereupon he ate it. As it was

will occur to the Captain of the Kuokoa to send this fish to the great

sliding down in his mouth, still twitching, it hit his soft palate

exposition in Paris.

and shot into his nose, where it got stuck. He came back,

Sincerely, J. L. Kalaulipolipo, Hauula, September 2, 1867.

saddened, and said to me, “Hey. I’m in trouble! An aholehole

Kau’i concluded this story by saying, “It is a reminder to us that once we

went into my mouth, got inside my soft palate, and here it

then went down into the throat, and from the throat it entered the

LAWAI‘A MAGAZINE

start a task, we must see it to completion before enjoying the spoils.”

When

the ocean decides to happen to you

it doesn’t ask where you bought your gear

or how much you paid it only asks if you’re ready . Really Ready.

We got it. next to nico’s at pier 38 1133 n. nimitz hwy. • honolulu, hi 96817 • 808-537-2905 • toll-free (u.s.): 1-800-288-6644 • pop-hawaii.com