Families invited to participate in 2026 Kohala Keiki Fishing Derby

Hawaiʻi Police Department North and South Kohala Community Policing Sections invite keiki and their ʻohana to participate in the 2026 Kohala Keiki Fishing Derby.

The free fishing derby is scheduled for 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 25 and kicks off at Kawaihae Landing Ship, Tank Landing of Kawaihae Harbor on the northeast coast of the island in Kawaihae. It is open to children ages 17 years old and younger.

Participation is limited to the first 100 keiki.

Registration is required and must be completed in person at the North Kohala or South Kohala police stations.

Deadline to register is July 17.

Participants will enjoy a morning of fishing alongside Hawaiʻi Police Department Community Policing officers while learning about water safety, responsible outdoor recreation and building positive relationships with law enforcement.

“This annual event is about more than fishing,” said North Kohala Community Policing Section Sgt. Spencer Kekoa in a police release about the upcoming tournament. “It gives our officers the opportunity to spend quality time with our island’s keiki, strengthen relationships with local families and create positive memories that help build trust between law enforcement and the community.”

Hawaiʻi Police Department looks forward to welcoming families for a day of fishing, fun and community spirit.

Call the North Kohala Police Station at 808-889-6540 or South Kohala Police Station at 808-887-3080 for additional information or with questions about remaining space or more about the 2026 fishing derby.