I'm going to be spending a few weeks on Hawaii's big Island and wondered what kind of fishing gear to take for Shore fishing. Is it mostly light gear for small reef fish, or do I need my big surf fishing gear?

What techniques work best, and and what lures or gear should I pack? thanks

12' rod 2-5 oz with large Okuma spinning reel with #50 braid.

A steelhead spinning rod will work for some lure fishing for the papio also some roi
Top water lures that cast well are best to use so you aren't donating everything to the reef and sharp lava. Kastmasters also work well. You can try some buzzbombs but don't let them hit the bottom. Chances are you won't get them back. A rod rated 15lb would be as light as I would go for papio. Load it with some braid and use a fluorocarbon leader so that you can cast far enough. Some folks load mono backing under the braid. Lead head jigs and plastics work as well until the wrasse bight them in half. Shallow running stick baits can catch some fish but are expensive to be decorating the reef with.

You can definitely add some species to your bucket using some squid and bait hook. Use a bobber if you can't get away from constant snags.

Once you hook a papio you will be hooked for life what a amazing fish. Those fish know how to use the sharp edges of the reef and lava to their advantage.

Definitely take a camera with you. I'm looking forward to your reports.

Ha na pa ha

Reefer,
Nice pics. Why havent you posted before.
Keep us warmed up and post pics more often.

Thanks for all the help. Are you fishing near reefs in shallower water, or do you fish rocks/cliffs in deeper water, or long casting on sandy beaches?

And Reefer what is that on your hooks? Are those artificial baits or some kind of natural bait?

Fish were eever you want Not many sand beaches on the bigisland.
And be aware of the fish that carry the reef toxins And don't touch the sea urchins. That crap hurts.

Riverdick is right.....don't worry about the where, just toss your lure or bait in front of whatever hotel or condo you are staying at. The glamour predator fish travel all over looking for food and you are as likely to hit one in front of a hotel as you are at a remote beach. Just pick your way out to the end of any likely-looking rocky point and have a go at it. I'd also bring some big poppers, like Williamson jet poppers or a Sebile chugger. The strikes will take your breath away...like someone dropped a 50 pound sack of cement in the water. They'll be tricky to land but you won't forget the experience even if it breaks you off after 30 seconds. Abu......err, I mean 'reefer'...gave you perfect advice on the bait dunking setup

There are GTs on the big island and they'll hit topwaters. Not a high numbers game but they are there. I know a guy who hooked and landed a mahimahi from shore on a big popper too...and you can catch green jobfish (uku) and bluefin trevally (omilu) on the same gear.

Have fun.