Fishing and Fishponds

Native Hawaiians thrived by fishing in coastal waters and collecting shellfish, seaweed, and salt along the shore. To survive in a hot and arid environment, native Hawaiians (kanaka maoli) used ancient fishing skills, including the building of fishponds, and the knowledge of the location of precious fresh water (wai) that flows into the many brackish pools. The spirit of the people (poe) and the knowledge of the elders (kupuna) created a tradition of respect and reverence for these areas and the skills required to fish for sustaining large and vibrant communities.