Year-round seasons. Choose your weapon. Amazing weather. Views of an ocean so vibrantly blue it doesn’t look real. Sound like paradise? Hunting Hawaii is.

Recreational opportunity abounds in Hawaii. Unlike most hunts, it’s possible to build a couple days of chasing critters into a broader vacation. Something that in most instances isn’t an option, or at the minimum, is difficult – particularly if your significant other doesn’t share your desire to procure a little coastal camp meat.

Exotic Islands with Exotic Game:

So, what can a person chase on their tropical hunting trip? Wild pigs (Introduced by ancient Polynesians in 400 AD), feral goats (1778), Columbia blacktail deer (1960) and mouflon sheep (1957) are a few of the primary game species pursued on the various Hawaiian Islands.

Possibly the most sought-after animal by traveling hunters due to extreme beauty coupled with renowned table fare - the axis deer. Native to India, 8 axis deer were originally brought from Hong Kong to the island of Molokai in the mid-1800’s as gift for king Kamehameha. They took a strong foothold, went forth, multiplied, and found favor with island residents who then decided it would be a good idea to introduce them to Maui and Lanai as well.

All these animals have woven their way into the fabric of the island’s landscape and hunting culture. Some would argue a little too much.

It’s impossible to say they haven’t had an impact on the island’s native flora and fauna. They also provide valuable protein for island residents, tourism dollars, are the base resource for select private businesses, and create recreational opportunities that otherwise would not exist. As with many things in life, there is a balance to be struck.

Choose your Weapon:

Bow or Gun? There are advantages to going with the bow. Certain areas are only open to bowhunting. Additionally, bringing a firearm - even for a few days - is somewhat tricky. It will cost you time. And if your first time, a little money.

As it stands, (Always consult the most up-to-date regulations) all firearms imported to Hawaii must be registered in person at the police station. Registration must occur within five days of the firearm entering the state. Specific office hours are in play, and you may not be their first customer of the day. An oddly specific one-time fee of $43.25 for a fingerprint check will be assessed and is payable by money order or cashier’s check only to Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center. These are the distilled-down basics of bringing a firearm to Hawaii. If you are committed to the gun, do your own research and plan accordingly.

Licensing:

Before you go, you’ll need to complete Hawaii’s Letter of Exemption form (you will need your hunter safety card to complete the form). Once you receive an Exemption Number, you can purchase a Non-Resident Hawaii Hunting License online. Regulations and policy can change. Always check state game and fish requirements well in advance of your trip.

Island Hunt Vibes:

Hunting Hawaii has a safari-like feel. Depending on the island, terrain, or specific property, you may come across one or more of the available species. Landscapes range from arid and open to thick, steep, jungle. The variety of game and environments which they live can be truly astounding.

Go Guided or Go it Alone:

• Guided: Private land dominates in Hawaii. Large landowners or outfitters who lease private land, book hunts with paying clients providing a viable source of income, consumptive harvest, population control, as well as high-quality experiences for those traveling to take in all the islands offer. Booking a hunt may be the most realistic, logistically simple, and high-odds path for folks looking to see Hawaii from a hunter’s perspective. Private land hunts have strong potential for being an opportunity-rich affair, creating a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Translation, if you blow an opportunity, it’s likely not the end of the world. Many hunts are two-day affairs – a perfect break from the beach and change of scenery. The obvious downside - it’s going to cost you. Hunts generally range from $1,000 to $4,000 depending on what you’re after. But hey, you’re on vacation.
• Do it yourself: For the DIY hunter, there are some hurdles to overcome. Public land hunting opportunities are limited and can be convoluted. Hunting only on certain days, archery only areas, restrictive gun regulations, draw hunts, regulations specific to their respective island and public land not open to hunting for reasons unknown from a practical and biological standpoint, present obstacles to hunters who wish to partake. Can a public land hunt be challenging, yes. Impossible, no.

At the end of the day, hunting Hawaii is the perfect off-season option for those looking to add another adventure to their calendar. Simply put, if you’re into beaches, Mai tai’s, snorkeling, and hunting, consider Hawaii for your next vacation. And if you’re super brave and really want to set a precedent, splice a hunt into your honeymoon.

Hawaii – known for surf, sun, snorkeling, tropical drinks, honeymoons, luaus, and hunting. Wait, hunting? Mark Boardman and Remi Warren check out “the Aloha State” from a perspective few get to see. They chase axis deer, pigs and goats in a landscape that can be summed up in a single word – paradise. Bullets are sent and arrows fly in this exciting hunt you won’t want to miss.

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