Honokohau Bait Ball

This bait ball was formed just inside the entrance to Honokohau harbor.

I set out for an early morning flight to take advantage of the indirect warm sunlight. My goal was to locate dolphins that are usually close to the Honokohau bay. After a few laps of not seeing any life around the waters I started checking out the coastline. Just rounding the rocky edge and into the harbor I spotted the dark shape of a large bait ball. I was amazed at how clear the water was when I navigated closer to get some different angles. The southern swells were just starting to let up, so I was anticipating some debris from sand being kicked up with each passing wave. The fish must have been just within the break to be safe from turbulence. This worked in my favor and allowed me to slowly frame each shot.

Usually fish form this large ball when they feel threatened. They use their numbers as a defense to protect themselves. I was hoping to see a shark feeding, but instead witnessed 2 Yellowfin Tuna chasing the fish around. In one shot it appears that there is a tiger shark resting under the fish in an opening. I have not concluded what the shape actually is, but when zooming in I can make out fins and gills. There is a tiger shark that is known to stay around this marina.

Prints are available at my FineArtAmerica store front.

Check out another bait ball post here Kiholo Bait Ball