Early Memories on the Water
One memory that has stayed with me is from when I was 14 years old. I lived on Makaha, on the island of Oahu, in Hawaii. I didn’t even have a driver’s license yet, but living in such a rural area meant that adventure was always close by. I asked my dad if I could take out our 14-foot skiff with a 2-stroke 40hp outboard (no 4-strokes back then, as it was 1961 – do the math, that’s 64 years ago!). My friend, who was 15 and my partner that day, and I set out offshore in search of pelagic fish.
We had a strike, and I thought we had hooked a small Wahoo or Mahi, but it turned out to be a Pacific Blue Marlin. Just imagine two barely teenage kids battling a massive fish for over three hours—until it finally turned belly up. We brought it to the boat, but it was too big to pull onboard. By the time we dragged it shoreward (about three miles offshore, taking roughly a half-hour), we reached a makeshift ramp built from military landing mats on the sand. A group of local old-timers, who frequented the beach daily, helped us load the fish into a pickup truck and hung it on a scale that read 260 lbs.
Later that day, my dad arrived after finishing work. He found me at the harbor, and needless to say, he was one proud father to see his kid catch a fish bigger than himself.
I was an only child raised by a single father, so we spent a lot of time fishing offshore. Over the years, our catches grew—up to nearly 400 lbs in just three years. My dad even landed a 652-lb fish on one occasion, though I wasn’t with him that day.
Fishing Style & Techniques
Preferred Waters
All my fishing is saltwater since I live in Hawaii. I now primarily fish near shore and on the flats.
Favorite Technique
I specialize in flats fishing and guiding for Bonefish with clients. This technique has become a cornerstone of my approach on the water.
Memorable Catch
The biggest fish I personally landed on my own boat was a 553-lb Black Marlin—a moment that truly stands out in my fishing career.
Advice & Inspiration
One of the key pieces of fishing advice I received is: "If at first you don’t succeed, try, try. Again…" This simple mantra has guided me through countless days on the water.
While I didn’t have a specific tip for crappie fishing, the overall message is to never give up and always keep experimenting.
Beyond Fishing
When I’m not out on the water, I keep active by playing pickleball for cardio and hitting the gym for strength training. I also enjoy helping newbies learn how to set up their boats and offering “Fishing 101” lessons.
My Connection with WindRider
I became a WindRider Pro Staffer because I love sharing products that truly work. I’m not a fan of messy sunscreens that ruin your clothes—what I appreciate are high-quality clothing options that protect your body. I’ve often given away shirts as gifts, and the positive feedback keeps me motivated.
My favorite WindRider product is the men’s hoodie. It comes with a built-in gaiter, so I don’t need an extra buff, and it’s become an essential part of my gear.
Stay Connected
Follow my fishing adventures and stay in touch:
- Instagram: HallelujahHouFishing
- Facebook: HallelujahHouFishing
Whether you’re chasing big game or learning the basics, I hope my journey inspires you to get out there, try new things, and enjoy every moment on the water.