Hawaii Reef Fish Guide
Bonefishes
Bonefishes are sleek, silvery fish found in Hawaii's shallow sandy flats, lagoons and calm coastal waters. Known in Hawaiian as 'o'io, they are fast swimmers and prized by anglers for their strength.
Bonefishes Overview
Bonefishes are slim, silvery fish with streamlined bodies and deeply forked tails. Their shape helps them move quickly through shallow coastal waters, especially across sandy flats and clear lagoons. In Hawaii, bonefish are known by the Hawaiian name 'o'io. Visitors can browse the broader Hawaii fish guide for more reef fish and marine animal profiles.
Two species of bonefish can be found in Hawaiian waters: the Short Jaw Bonefish and the Longjaw Bonefish. Both live in shallow, sand-bottomed habitats. Their flesh has good flavor, but many small bones give these fish their common English name.
Quick Facts About Bonefishes
- Family: Albulidae
- Hawaiian name: 'O'io
- Hawaii species: Short Jaw Bonefish and Longjaw Bonefish
- Body shape: Slim, silvery and streamlined
- Tail: Deeply forked
- Habitat: Shallow sandy flats, lagoons and calm coastal waters
- Known for: Speed, strength and many small bones
Where Bonefishes Live in Hawaii
Bonefishes often use shallow, sandy-bottomed areas where the water is calm and clear. Flats, lagoons, channels and protected shoreline areas can provide good habitat. Their silver color helps them blend with bright sand and moving water.
Because they move quickly and can be hard to see, bonefish are often noticed only when they flash in the sunlight or stir the bottom while feeding. Visitors planning shoreline time can also review Hawaii beach safety tips, Hawaii snorkeling and the broader Hawaii ocean life guide.
How to Identify Bonefishes
Bonefishes have a clean, silvery look and a narrow body built for speed. Their forked tail helps them make quick bursts across the flats. They may appear alone or in small groups in shallow water.
- Look for a slim silver fish over sand.
- Notice the deeply forked tail.
- Watch for quick movement in shallow flats.
- Check calm lagoons and sandy-bottomed coastal areas.
Bonefishes and Fishing
Bonefish are popular with anglers because they are fast and strong. In Hawaii, 'o'io fishing is especially associated with shallow flats and coastal waters. Fly fishing and light tackle fishing can be challenging because the fish are alert and quick to flee.
Bonefish also have traditional food value in Hawaii. Because of the many small bones, the flesh is often prepared in ways that make it easier to eat, such as fish cakes or other mixed preparations. For cultural food context, visitors can also read about Hawaiian food and dining in Hawaii.
Food and Feeding Behavior
Bonefishes feed by searching sandy bottoms for small prey. They may root through sand or sediment for worms, crustaceans and other small animals. This feeding style often brings them into shallow flats where snorkelers, waders or anglers may spot them.
With their silvery bodies, speed and Hawaiian name 'o'io, bonefishes are an important and recognizable part of Hawaii's shallow coastal fish life. Other fish and bottom-associated marine animals include goatfishes, rays, crabs and sea cucumbers.