Beginner’s Guide to Guided Hunts in Hawaiʻi: What to Expect

If you’re new to hunting—or just new to hunting in Hawaiʻi—your first guided hunt can feel both exciting and a little intimidating. But don’t worry—guided hunts are designed to be safe, informative, and unforgettable, especially when you’re in the hands of experienced local professionals like the team at Hunting Outfitters Hawaiʻi.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before your boots hit the ground. From what gear is provided to how animal tracking works in Hawaiʻi’s unique terrain, we’ve got you covered.

Why Choose a Guided Hunt?

Hawaiʻi isn’t just about beaches and luaus—it’s also home to diverse wildlife, including Axis deer, wild boar, mouflon sheep, and more. But navigating the terrain, understanding animal behavior, and staying safe while doing it takes local knowledge and experience.

That’s where a guided hunt comes in. With our expert team, you get:

  • Access to exclusive hunting grounds
  • Insightful local guidance
  • All necessary permits handled
  • A focus on ethical, sustainable hunting practices

What’s Included in a Guided Hunt?

Here’s what you can expect when you book a hunt with us:

🥾 Gear & Equipment

Don’t worry about buying top-of-the-line gear on day one. Most of our guided packages include:

  • Firearms or bows (or bring your own)
  • Optics and scopes
  • Field dressing tools
  • Safety gear and communication equipment

We’ll give you a full gear checklist before your hunt—so you know exactly what’s covered and what you might want to bring (like hiking boots, layers, and sun protection).

🗺️ Location Scouting

One of the best parts of going guided? You don’t have to do the scouting. Our team pre-scouts the area so we know where the game is moving and when. We use a mix of traditional tracking, GPS, and game cameras to give you the best chance of success—while also respecting the animals and environment.

🐾 Tracking and Hunting Techniques

Our guides will walk you through:

  • How to recognize tracks and game trails
  • How to move quietly and approach game with care
  • The best vantage points and shooting techniques
  • How to judge animal age, size, and ethical shot placement

Whether you’re hunting with a bow or rifle, our team adapts the experience to your skill level.

Safety First, Always

We take safety very seriously. Before the hunt, you’ll go through a thorough safety briefing that covers:

  • Terrain awareness
  • Firearm/bow handling
  • Emergency protocols
  • Hydration and first-aid practices

You’ll never be left on your own—our guides are with you every step of the way to make sure your hunt is both thrilling and secure.

What Makes Hawaiʻi Hunting Unique

Hawaiʻi’s hunting landscape is incredibly diverse. One day you could be in lush forests and highland ranges, and the next on rolling grasslands overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Our hunting areas are on private lands, which means:

  • No crowds
  • Ample game
  • Breathtaking backdrops

And because Hawaiʻi’s game species are non-native, your hunt contributes to ecological balance and habitat restoration—making it an experience you can feel good about.

Tips for First-Time Hunters

  • Stay hydrated. The tropical climate can sneak up on you.
  • Listen to your guide. They’ve likely tracked this area for years.
  • Be patient. Sometimes the best moments in the wild are the quiet ones.
  • Ask questions. We’re here to teach, not just to lead.

Ready for Your First Hunt?

At Hunting Outfitters Hawaiʻi, we’re passionate about creating memorable, safe, and successful hunting adventures for hunters of all levels. Whether you’re a total beginner or just new to the islands, we’ll take care of the details so you can focus on the experience.

Book your hunt today and discover what it means to explore Hawaiʻi’s wild side—guided by professionals who love what they do.

Hunting Safety in Hawaiʻi: What Our Guides Do to Keep You Protected

For many, a guided hunt in Hawaiʻi is the adventure of a lifetime—stunning terrain, unique species, and memories made in the wild. But whether you’re a seasoned hunter or first-timer, one thing matters above all: safety.

At Hunting Outfitters Hawaiʻi, your well-being is our top priority. We understand that hunting in remote and rugged environments comes with challenges, which is why we’ve developed comprehensive safety protocols to ensure every hunt is as secure as it is exciting.

Here’s how we protect our clients—before, during, and after every hunt.

1. Professional, Trained Guides

Our guides aren’t just local experts—they’re also highly trained in safety, survival, and emergency response. Each guide is:

  • Certified in First Aid and CPR
  • Experienced in backcountry navigation and wildlife behavior
  • Trained in firearm safety and handling
  • Familiar with terrain-specific risks across each island

We conduct regular training sessions to keep our guides up to date on best practices, new equipment, and evolving environmental conditions in Hawaiʻi.

2. Pre-Hunt Safety Briefings

Before every hunt begins, we lead a detailed safety briefing. This includes:

  • A review of firearm safety rules
  • An overview of local terrain and weather expectations
  • Clear communication on hand signals, group movement, and boundaries
  • Instructions on how to interact with local wildlife responsibly

We also review the emergency protocols and ensure every participant knows how to signal for help and where the guide carries communication devices.

3. Emergency Preparedness in the Field

Our guides carry field-tested safety gear and communication equipment for unexpected emergencies, including:

  • First aid kits with supplies for cuts, sprains, bites, and allergic reactions
  • Satellite phones or GPS trackers for areas with no cellular coverage
  • Emergency shelter and extra water supplies
  • Evacuation plans tailored to each hunting location

In Hawaiʻi’s remote hunting zones—especially off-grid areas of Maui, Molokaʻi, or Big Island—these precautions are essential for rapid and effective response.

4. Gear Checks and Equipment Support

Not sure if your gear is up to par? We’ve got you covered.

Before heading into the field, we inspect all gear for:

  • Proper firearm function and sight alignment
  • Footwear suited to rugged terrain and elevation
  • Hydration packs, weather-appropriate clothing, and sun protection
  • Optics, knives, and other tools to ensure safety and ethical practices

For new hunters or traveling visitors, we also offer rental gear and equipment guidance, so you’re fully prepared from the moment you arrive.

5. Environmental Awareness

Hawaiʻi’s ecosystems are breathtaking—but they can also be unpredictable. Our team stays informed about:

  • Weather alerts and seasonal hazards like flash floods or wildfire risks
  • Slippery slopes, lava rock, and unstable terrain
  • Animal behavior patterns, especially during rutting or nesting seasons

We adjust routes, schedules, and safety plans as needed to ensure safe access to game and minimal disruption to local habitats.

6. Respectful, Low-Impact Hunting

We emphasize ethical and sustainable hunting, which not only benefits the environment but enhances safety as well. By tracking carefully, moving with purpose, and practicing patience, we reduce risks of accidents, misfires, or startling other wildlife.

7. Post-Hunt Check-Ins

Once your hunt ends, our job isn’t over. We debrief with each client to:

  • Review any minor injuries or gear issues
  • Ensure you’re rehydrated and properly cooled down after a hike
  • Offer transport back to your lodging or meeting point
  • Share tips on meat handling, trophy care, or preserving your harvest

Adventure, Safety, and Aloha

At Hunting Outfitters Hawaiʻi, we believe that hunting should be empowering, respectful, and most of all—safe. Whether you’re bow hunting for Axis deer or pursuing wild boar with a rifle, our team is there every step of the way with expertise, vigilance, and aloha.

Ready to book your guided hunt in Hawaiʻi? Join us for a responsible, unforgettable experience led by the islands’ most trusted hunting professionals.

Visit https://www.huntingoutfittershawaii.com to learn more or schedule your next adventure.

Combining Vacation and Hunting: How to Plan the Ultimate Outdoor Trip in Hawaiʻi

When most people think of a Hawaiian vacation, they imagine sandy beaches, volcano hikes, and fresh pineapple by the ocean. But for outdoor enthusiasts, Hawaiʻi offers something truly unique: the chance to combine a world-class vacation with a one-of-a-kind guided hunting experience.

At Hunting Outfitters Hawaiʻi, we believe your hunting trip doesn’t have to be all boots and blinds—it can also include luxury lodging, eco-adventures, deep-sea fishing, and cultural sightseeing. Here’s how to plan the ultimate outdoor escape that blends the thrill of the hunt with the beauty and relaxation of a Hawaiian vacation.

Why Choose Hawaiʻi for Your Hunting Getaway?

Unlike anywhere else in the U.S., Hawaiʻi’s landscapes and wildlife create a hunting experience like no other. Our islands offer:

  • Year-round hunting seasons
  • Access to exotic game like Axis deer, mouflon sheep, wild boar, and feral goats
  • Breathtaking backdrops of volcanic peaks, rainforests, and open plains
  • Friendly, experienced guides who honor traditional Hawaiian land stewardship

And when the day’s hunt is done, the islands welcome you with everything from five-star beach resorts to cozy eco-lodges deep in nature.

What to Expect from a Guided Hunt

A guided hunt with us includes everything you need to stay safe, legal, and successful:

  • Transportation to hunting zones
  • Safety briefings and licensed guide support
  • Gear rental and equipment checks
  • Field dressing and trophy assistance
  • Customized hunts for bow, rifle, or crossbow

Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned hunter, we tailor the experience to match your comfort level and vacation schedule.

Luxury Meets Wilderness: Lodging Options

You don’t have to rough it unless you want to. Our clients enjoy a range of lodging options across the islands:

🏨 Luxury Resorts & Villas

Stay in oceanfront suites or private bungalows near your hunting zone. Perfect for couples or families who want to enjoy spa services, pools, and upscale dining after a day outdoors.

🌿 Eco-Lodges & Off-Grid Cabins

Immerse yourself in Hawaiʻi’s wild side. These rustic-yet-comfortable stays are ideal for nature lovers seeking solitude, stargazing, and the sounds of native wildlife.

🛖 Local Bed & Breakfasts

Get a taste of authentic aloha hospitality and local insights while staying in charming homes near hunting sites.

Make It a Full Adventure: What Else to Do

Hunting is just the beginning. Turn your trip into a full Hawaiian adventure by adding:

  • 🎣 Deep-Sea Fishing: Charter a day out for mahi-mahi, ahi, or marlin.
  • 🌋 Volcano Tours: Explore the Big Island’s Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
  • 🧗🏽‍♂️ Hiking & Waterfalls: Trek into lush valleys and hidden cascades.
  • 🌊 Snorkeling & Surfing: Spend your rest days exploring vibrant reefs.
  • 🌺 Cultural Experiences: Attend a luau, visit historic sites, or take a hula lesson.

We’re happy to connect you with trusted tour partners to help round out your itinerary.

Tips for Planning Your Trip

To get the most out of your combined hunting and vacation experience:

  1. Book Early: Popular hunting seasons and lodging options fill up quickly.
  2. Get Licensed: We’ll help you navigate Hawaiʻi’s hunting license process.
  3. Pack Right: We provide gear checklists, or offer rental options.
  4. Bring the Family: Many of our clients bring spouses or kids—non-hunters can enjoy nearby attractions while you’re in the field.

Your Dream Outdoor Getaway Awaits

A hunting trip to Hawaiʻi doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort, fun, or time with loved ones. It means saying yes to adventure—and experiencing the islands in a way few travelers ever do.

At Hunting Outfitters Hawaiʻi, we help you create a seamless blend of excitement and relaxation. From the hunt to the hammock, every moment is guided by safety, sustainability, and the spirit of aloha.

Ready to start planning your unforgettable trip? Visit https://www.huntingoutfittershawaii.com to learn more and schedule your next adventure.

Hawaii and Hunting: Reopening for Tourism

Starting from October 15, Hawaii is now officially open to travelers from all over the world. So for all those who had to postpone their plans due to the pandemic, it’s time to pack your bags again. But this time a bit cautiously with all the precautions in place! You must abide by the Hawaii travel requirement to enjoy the best of Hawaii.

Travel Restrictions That Are A Must To Follow!

In Hawaii, coronavirus impacted the tourism industry largely but now with things slowly getting back to normal, you can visit the picturesque islands of Hawaii by following a few travel requirements and rules to make sure that you and your family remain safe throughout the journey. According to the Honolulu tourism COVID plan, the tourists must follow the following things:

•Before hopping on to a flight, you must take a coronavirus test and get negative results within 72 hours of your travel in order to avoid being quarantined for 14 days on arrival.

•You must keep your test results available during arrival in Hawaii so that you don’t need to quarantine yourself till you get another one, as it is mandatory.

•If you are in need of a COVID test in Hawaii, don’t worry, as all coronavirus tests (nucleic acid amplification tests) here are FDA-approved.

The Hawaii Coronavirus cases have declined steadily since August. In order to ensure your safety, the temperatures of all tourists will be checked during arrival. Everyone will also have to fill a form concerning travel and health.

Tourism in Hawaii in the time of COVID

Hawaii Islands are a holiday paradise for many and COVID had caused a shutdown in the tourism in Honolulu and other areas in Hawaii. But now that the island is finally open to tourists again, the Hawaiian government and Tourism department has taken all possible measures to ensure the safety and well-being of their guests.

Things that you can do in Hawaii amid all the necessary COVID precautions

•Once you land safely in Hawaii, there are many adventures waiting for you in this incredible destination where the fun never ends. You can relax on sprawling beaches or whisk away to stunning tropical getaways. There are many water sports that you can partake in too, including swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.

•You can go to Waikiki, a suburb of Honolulu for its wonderful resorts and retreats. There are a host of things to do there including shopping for souvenirs, dining on authentic Hawaiian cuisine, and take part in some fine entertainment. You can visit Pearl Harbour, a National Historic Landmark that played a turning point in World War Two. There are many national parks and waterfalls to look for as well.

Axis deer hunting in Hawaii is another popular activity that has now safely resumed. The Hawaiian Islands are the perfect place for an exciting hunt for both eager beginners and seasoned veterans. The island of Molokai is one of the best places for Axis Deer hunting in Hawaii and there are sprawling acres of private terrain with a huge population of Axis deer that are safe to hunt and are strictly under government monitoring.

You will need a license to hunt in Hawaii. For obtaining a license, you will need either of the following:

•a Hawaii Hunter Education Wallet Card

•a Letter of Exemption, which may be completed online

Many hunting packages help you with the protocols and the rules to be followed if you are new to this exhilarating sport, although it is advisable to check for the detailed requirements earlier. There are many privately owned ranches available where you can hunt safely with your family or friends.

The COVID protocols to be followed during hunting

In order to make sure that tourists have the best experience while being as protected as possible against the pandemic, various hunting guides have put forth many safety measures in place. All precautions are taken and hunting is done in small groups. Masks are to be worn in presence of a group of people and social distancing rules are encouraged during most times. Sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content can be used outdoors.

So with all the safety precautions in place and your favorite sports being safely resumed, it’s time to pack your bags and get ready to make unforgettable memories that you are sure to remember in the decades to come.

Axis Deer Hunting In Hawaii: History And The Current Scenario

Hawaii – the paradise known for its beautiful landscapes, amazing islands, extensive grasslands and a wide variety of species to hunt. Hunting in Hawaii is popular among the tourists due to several factors such as thick and extreme backwoods, different types of creatures and obviously their delightful meat. You get to hunt a number of animals like the Axis deer, Hawaiian Boar, Black Hawaiian Sheep, Mouflon and Dove on the islands of Hawaii. However, axis deer hunting is among the most popular activities.

Now, why axis deer hunting is so popular in Hawaii? How these deer were introduced in Hawaii? What’s the history behind their hunting? Answers to these questions are important. So this article covers everything that you need to know about Hawaii’s hunting scenario.

•The history of Axis Deer in Hawaii: The history of Axis Deer can be traced back to 1867 when King Kamehameha V received ‘eight animals’ as a gift from Hong Kong. That day, for the first time, Hawaiians saw ‘Axis deer’ on the islands of Molokai. Then after a few years, they were introduced in other Hawaiian islands—Lanai and Maui to increase the hunting opportunities.

But in the 1950s, the population of axis deer started to increase by 20-30 percent every year as there were no natural predators on the Hawaiian Islands. This dramatic increase in their population affected the natural areas and agricultural lands of the locals. According to scientists, axis deer were causing serious damage to landscapes and therefore, the government decided to abandon the further release of deer in Hawaii.

As per the survey, axis deer caused damage of $1 million during the past few years for farmers, ranchers, and resorts in Maui Island. Due to their abundant population, the deer used to eat Hawaii’s native ebony tree, the lama, native olive tree and mint grown on the island of Lanai. This resulted in the extinction of these vegetations and transformed a rich native forest into a desert-like landscape. So to tackle this problem, the government allowed axis deer hunting Hawaii in several public and private islands. In this way, the hunting came into being in Hawaii.

The Current Scenario Of Hunting in Hawaii: Hawaii attracts more than 8.3 million tourists from all over the globe, who spend approximately over $16 billion every year. Due to dense woodland and abundant species of animals in Hawaii, it is considered as an ideal hunting destination today. Especially Axis Deer Hunting Hawaii, which is popular due to its high protein meat and demand in the international market.

Read More: What Can Be The Consequences Of Stopping Deer Hunting In Hawaii?

Statistically, every year, more than 50 Axis deer are been hunted for a number of purposes such as recreation, ecological balance, deer meat, and so on. As a result, Hawaii is the state that currently tops the hunting friendly list, providing the best hunting opportunities and experiences to the avid hunters. However, for the best hunting experience, one must follow the Hawaii Hunting Tips.

Rules For Hunting In A Private Property In Hawaii: Hunting in Hawaii can definitely offer you once-in-a-lifetime experience, but not without rules and regulations. Yes, there are laws that one must abide by to make the most of this activity.

Here are the common rules to hunt on both public and private properties:

1.If you are a non-resident, you have to pay a certain amount as the permit fee.

2.It’s mandatory to complete a hunter education course and avail a Hawaiian Hunting license from The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources to be able to hunt in Hawaii.

3.Apart from the license, you should also carry a safety card and a letter of exception.

However, for hunting on a private island specifically, there are additional Hawaii Hunting Rules and Regulations, which must be followed sincerely:

1.Before hunting, it’s mandatory to have written permission from the owner of the island while abiding the state hunting laws. Note: If you’re caught trespassing on the private island with a loaded firearm, you will be heavily penalized or can even face imprisonment for 10 years.

2.Hunters cannot disturb, remove, take or steal things such as fossils, monuments, burial sites, and antiquities from the private island. The hunters only have access to the land for hunting or recreational purposes; everything else on the property belongs to the owner and must be left as it is.

3.Game mammals can be hunted only with a valid hunting license and the landowner’s permission on private land (subject to few exceptions).

4.If the hunter brings his/her own gun, it’s compulsory to register it with the local police department before the hunt.

All in all, Hawaii is not just a beach paradise but also a destination to hunt some exotic species of animals, mammals, and birds. Hunting in Hawaii is a unique experience in itself that provides a perfect finale to your Hawaiian tour.

So what are you waiting for? It’s time to up your hunting game and get ready to chase big.

Hunting in Hawaii: Here’s A Complete Guide For Your Next Hunting Expedition!

Hawaii is the land of adventure with intense greenery and sparkling waters all around. Right from exploring the beautiful islands of Hawaii to enjoying unstoppable hunting experience in the tropical woodlands, the adventure in Hawaii never stops! Hunting in Hawaii comes packed amidst thick and intense bushes, various species of animals and the delicious meat of the same. Whether you are a first-time vacationer in Hawaii or a regular hunting enthusiast, hunting with the right partner makes all the difference. And, this is where hunters like us can give a perfect finish to your trip. We at Go Hunting Outfitters know how to make the most of your hunting trips.

Guide to hunting in hawaii

So, here we are answering all the questions related to your next hunting trip in Hawaii. Take a look:

•What is the cost of Hunting in Hawaii? The cost of hunting in Hawaii largely depends on the package, grassland, and animal that you choose. If your package just includes the transportation and hunting license costs in a basic woodland, then the overall cost might be low. The package cost will only increase on including the add-ons like Hunting guide service, swimming pool and snorkeling, meals and beverages, kayaking and gun rentals. Overall, the average cost of hunting in Hawaii will cost somewhere around $800 or $900.

What are the different animals that you can hunt in Hawaii? There are few species you can hunt during a specific season or throughout the year, provided you have a valid Hawaii hunting license. Animals that you can readily hunt in Hawaii woodlands are Axis Deer, Hawaiian Boar, Black Hawaiian Sheep Mouflon, Dove, and Frank Colin. These species are found on flat or hilly land with plenty of bushy cover or places with open grazing ground. Axis Deer Hunting Hawaii is a famous sporting activity that tests your strategic and archery skills. Furthermore, the meat of axis deer, boar and dove is highly nutritious and have a huge demand in the local and global market. So you get to hunt and relish the tasty meats of these species at the same time.

•How to hunt in Hawaii? Go Hunting Outfitters take you to the islands of Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Waikiki and Big island for hunting various species of animals. You can choose different hunting styles starting from stalking, bow hunting to rifle hunting, depending on your preference. Bow hunting and rifle hunting both are economical and very exciting but you need to possess archery skills and caliber for them. You can also get your own guns to hunt in Hawaii; provided you have the gun license or you can get the rifle on rent at an affordable price. Don’t worry! Even if you don’t know how to use a bow or rifle, our expert team is always there to make your hunting experience great!

How to get Hawaii hunting license and proper training for hunting? When you have a hunting partner like Go Hunting Outfitters, legal requirements like hunting license are no more a headache! We are Hawaii-approved agents, helping you with Hunter Education Certificate in order to legally buy a license or permit to hunt for you. However, before getting qualified for the hunting license, you have to complete the hunting training programme, under which, you learn about different hunting styles, hunting tools, and Hawai hunting rules and regulations. Here, it’s important to note that the fees for license of the resident and non-resident are $10 and $95 respectively.

•What makes us the best choice for your hunting expedition? We at Go Hunting Outfitters offer some amazing and challenging hunting opportunities to give you that spot on hunting experience on the adventurous woodlands of Hawaii. We take you to a variety of scenic hunting areas in the privately owned ranches across the beautiful islands. Our packages are affordable and can be customized as per your vacation plan. We also offer Hawaii island tours and delicious meals like BBQ, fish, axis venison and luau, all of which are included in our packages. You can check out our website to see how hunters and vacationers from all around the globe have had once in a lifetime experience with us!

From mesmerizing Hawaii Island tours to unforgettable hunting experiences, Go Hunting Outfitters make sure that you experience the best of Hawaii right in your budget. Time to book your hunt with us! We are just a phone call away!