Eric’s To`au

Blacktail snapper catch of the day
I’m lucky to have so many friends on the island who are avid fishermen and always eager help eliminate invasive species from Maui’s reefs.

The Blacktail snapper, or to`au, was introduced to Hawaiian waters in the 1950s for the purpose of sport and the hopes that everyone would enjoy them as a food source. Unfortunately, their population exploded and they are taking over entire reef systems. They are now considered an invasive species. Many refer to the to’au as the ‘yellow plague’ due to their destructive nature. Generally found near rocks, caves and darting around under ledges, the to’au is fast and quite skiddish. There is no minimum size or limit on to’au and they are great eating!

Debra Lumpkins Studio | Maui, Hawaii