Invasive and Target Species
Spearfishing can help remove invasive species from Hawaii's reefs.
Public enemy #1. The Roi was introduced from French Polynesia in the 1950’s by the State of Hawaii. The goal was to add an additional food source to Hawaii, but it completely backfired! After countless cases of Ciguatera poisoning it was determined that Roi was one of the main culprits. The Roi has been the target of “silent hunters” ever since. A voracious predator, the Roi consumes around 150 reef fish per year, including endemic species that are only found in Hawaii. At Top Shot Spearfishing the Roi is the only fish we target, but do not consume due to high rates of Ciguatera Toxin. All Roi are donated to local organic farmers to and used as fertilizer for wonderful tropical fruits! Kill them one and all. No bag limit and no size limit.
To’au is also an invasive species, but doesn’t consume as many fish as the Roi. There is no minimum size on To’au and they are great eating! Generally found near rocks, caves and darting around under ledges, the To’au is fast and quite skiddish. Using some good camouflage, such as a coral head or reef should pay off with a nice shot! No minimum size.
Rounding out our top 3 invasive fish found in Hawaiian waters in the Ta'ape. Adults inhabit anywhere from shallow lagoons and coral reefs to outer reef slopes at depths of up to 500 feet. They are often seen in large schools in and around caves and coral formations. The Ta'ape typically range from 5-10 inches and make for great eating.
Uku
Grey Snapper
4 pound minimum
The Uku is a delicious fish that like to hang out deeper on our reefs. They respond well to palu (chum), so often times we bring along some Ika (squid) to chop up. The Uku will often times come into shallower water after moon cycles to feed. Keep your eyes peeled when the palu is in the water and be ready to dive deep!
Umaumalei
Orange Spine Unicorn Fish
Minimum size 10"
In the same family as the Kala or Unicorn Fish, the Umaumalei makes for excellent sashimi! Found in the shallows this fish is quick to flee if approached to quickly. Try scratching some green lobe coral to get this guys attention. Watch out for the razor sharp orange spikes near the tail!