idylwilde hawaii
Spend a Day with Us
CAPTAIN ZACH: MOLOKAI NATIVE, INDUSTRY PRO, EXPERT GUIDE.
PLUS, A PRETTY GREAT GUY.
NEED WE SAY MORE?
Zach's professional background as an industry expert, combined with an intimate knowledge of the island, makes him regarded as one of the best guides in the area.
Top this with a passion for fly-fishing, sense of humor, patience and genuine interest in helping his clients have the best experience possible - and you will see why so many fishing enthusiasts enjoy spending the day with Idylwilde Hawaii.
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Testimonials
“Fishing with Zachary on Molokai was amazing. We explored the reefs alongside whales and dolphins, cast to aggressive Blue Ulua, and ended the day fishing for the largest bonefish I have ever seen. Truly a ‘good for the soul’ experience. Zack was born and raised on Molokai and his knowledge, personality, approach, and Aloha made the day really special. I’ll be back for sure.”
“I had the great pleasure of fishing on Molokai for bonefish with Zach Mertens in the spring of 2015. First off, you should know that these fish are not your typical bonefish and Zach is not your typical guide.
Zach calls his fish “big green logs.” And they are! I have fished for bones in Cuba, Mexico, and on Christmas Island and Zach’s fish are nothing like you would expect in terms of size and power. Think double or triple your average size bonefish and you will begin to understand what I mean. Once you wrap your head around that, your “monster” spotting skills will adapt and your adrenalin will reach new highs. The first group of bones I saw was a triple swimming right at us at warp speed. I asked Zach what those BC steelhead size fish were. “Big green logs” was his answer.
While the “big green logs” are what you are after, Zach is equally impressive. He is a very fishy dude and beyond that, a true waterman. He is a surfer, free diver and a great boatman. He grew up on Molokai and the waters are his backyard. As such, he knows everyone and is deeply connected to the island and the rhythm of the sea. After spending a day with him, you will see it is where his soul finds balance. He drives a very comfortable Dolphin skiff and knows the cuts in the reef like the back of his hand.
Zach will help you out with gear and fly selection. In addition to whatever he suggests, my recommendation would be to bring a one line heavier rod than you typically use (or at least over line your reel) in case the wind comes up. Bring heavier and larger flies, spawning shrimp patterns, and don’t forget to crank down your drag. These fish pull like a 60 pound tarpon. Lastly, read Bonefishing by Randall Kaufmann if you haven’t already. If you have, re-read the sections on presentation and retrieve. These Molokai fish are so impressive and finicky that you will want as much going for you as possible.
Fly fishing Molokai with Zach should be on every serious angler’s bucket list. I, for one, can’t wait to get back there.
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Our Services
CUSTOMIZED JUST FOR YOU
A day tour with Idylwilde Hawaii lasts approximately 6 hours, and tailored to the needs and interest of each client. Whether your schedule allows an early morning or late evening tour, we will work with you to set a time that will maximize your opportunities during the season for spotting bonefish.
Molokai Fly Fishing
We probably don't need to convince you to come to Hawaii. Everyone knows it's awesome. BUT SINCE YOU ASKED...
Hawaii offers some of the largest bonefish available in fly-fishing. The average size of the fish caught on molokai are 7-10 pounds. A trophy bone to almost any angler.
Like everything worth doing, bonefishing in Hawaii can be challenging but the reward of landing a fish of a lifetime can be worth the effort. At times Hawaiian bonefish may be found in shallow waters, tailing and seem simple to target. These conditions are rare and cannot be counted on. Often light to medium trades are blowing and the fish are working in deeper water that is fished off the front of a poled boat.
Every effort will be made to provide as many shots at fish as nature offers. You should come with expectations of having shots at 3-5 fish a day on average. Meaning on some days you might only have shots at 1 fish and other days you may have shots at 10 or more fish.
It can drive the best of us crazy, but there's something about the uncertainty of fishing that draws us back to the water time and again.
Regardless of how the fishing turns out, we will no doubt have a great day on the water. Trust us.