Hawaii offers unique game that hunters can only find on their beautiful islands. From feral pigs to axis deer, people travel from all over for the chance to experience a one-of-a-kind hunting opportunity. However, all hunters must follow the rules and regulations established by the Division of Forestry and Wildlife. This way, everyone can enjoy everything the six major islands offer safely and within guidelines. These islands are Kaua’i, O’ahu, Maui, Moloka’i, Hawaii Island, and Lana’i. Within these six islands, there are state-designated hunting areas called Hunting Units open year-round during certain hours of the day. There are private land hunting opportunities as well. 

However, regardless if you are hunting on private or public land, all hunters must be properly licensed with the correct tags for their intended game. A Hawai‘i Wildlife Conservation Stamp is also required to hunt. License prices vary depending on residency. You are considered a resident of Hawaii if you have resided in Hawaii for at least one year. They also consider you a resident if you are stationed in Hawaii for licensing purposes. 

All hunters must complete a hunter’s education course in order to buy a license. The exception to this rule is if the hunter is born before January 1, 1972 and can provide a hunting license issued before July 1, 1990. 

Regardless if you qualify for the exception or not, it is highly recommended you take the hunter’s education course, as Hawaii has many rules all hunters must follow at all times. For example, you may only hunt from one-half hour before sunrise until one-half hour after sunrise. Hunters are also forbidden from hunting protected species like brush-tailed wallabies and wild cattle unless granted authorization by the Division of Forestry and Wildlife. 

Some game requires special permits or tags like axis and black-tail deer. Since the rules vary from island to island, it is important to check the specific regulations on the island you intend to hunt on before every hunt to ensure all regulations are properly followed.