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Pu'u O Hoku Ranch

Hawaii, United States

Licensed outfitter

Since 2026

About Pu'u O Hoku Ranch

Trips

Frequently asked questions

About the Hunt & Property What makes a guided hunt at the ranch unique? A hunt at Pu'u O Hōkū Ranch tells a story — not just of survival and ecological balance, but of hunting as a means of conservation. You'll have the opportunity to harvest some of what many consider the finest wild game meat on the planet, while playing a direct role in preserving and restoring the native ecosystem. What animals can guests hunt? Guests are able to hunt axis deer and wild pigs on the ranch. How does a guided hunt work? We offer a variety of guided hunt packages. A typical hunt involves being picked up by guides, driven to the hunting area, and beginning the hunt on foot. Guides assist with locating animals, and once an animal is harvested they help with recovery and field dressing. Hunts are complete when the number of animals allowed for the package have been harvested or legal hunting hours end. How large is the huntable area and what does the terrain look like? The total huntable area is approximately 14,000 acres. Terrain varies from low rolling hills and open grasslands near the ocean to steep, narrow gulches and large valleys at higher elevations. Be prepared for significant elevation changes. Is the ranch licensed for guided hunting in Hawai'i? Yes, the ranch is fully licensed in accordance with all state laws. What is the relationship with Bucks and Bones Outfitters? Established in 2023 by Josiah Ching, who was born and raised on Moloka'i, Bucks and Bones Outfitters is a locally owned hunting and fishing guide service partnered with the ranch. Together, they have developed and continue to refine the guided hunting program. Bucks and Bones also offers guided light tackle and fly fishing trips specializing in Hawaiian bonefish. Seasons & Best Times What is the best time of year to target a trophy buck? The peak of the rut for axis deer on Moloka'i is mainly during June and July. Anytime from April through fall is a good window. When are bucks typically in hard antler versus velvet? Stages vary, but bucks are typically in hard antler from April through late fall and early winter, with the majority beginning to shed by December. Is pig hunting available year-round? Yes, pigs can be harvested year-round. Are there any seasonal closures or restricted areas? Because axis deer are non-native, we are able to hunt them year-round. Hunting areas and times are coordinated to allow ranch staff to conduct normal operations safely. Any cultural, historic, or archaeological sites encountered in the field are to be respected and not disturbed. What is the weather like on the East End during hunting season? Weather on the east end can change quickly — be prepared for shifting conditions. Rain is common in the mornings, so wet weather gear (at minimum a rain jacket) is strongly suggested. Winters can be wet and chilly; summers can be very hot and humid. How far in advance should someone book their hunt? We suggest booking as far in advance as possible to allow for logistical planning and to ensure your preferred dates are available. The Animals — Deer & Pig What should hunters know about axis deer behavior? Axis deer are extremely skittish and wary. They move quickly, favor staying in cover, and hide very well. As herd animals, they travel together — more sets of eyes and ears make them more challenging to hunt. If alerted, they'll make an alarm call that warns the entire herd and other animals in the area. What size bucks are realistically available? The average bucks seen on hunts are typically in the mid-20-inch range. Bucks of 30 inches and above are on the property but are fewer in number and take more time and effort to locate. Mature bucks of this caliber are extremely intelligent and experienced animals. Have there been trophy-class animals taken here? Yes, the property is known historically for very large bucks. Although this is only the second year of our program, several guests have harvested bucks over 30 inches. How common are pig encounters during a typical hunt? Pigs are seen on approximately 40–50% of hunts. What is the typical shot distance? Typical shots range from 150 to 200 yards. Opportunities out to 300 yards and further are not uncommon, and shots under 100 yards also occur. Generally, the further you are comfortable making ethical shots, the higher your odds of a successful hunt. What happens after an animal is harvested? Guides assist with field dressing and packing. Depending on terrain, the animal will either be deboned and packed to the vehicle on ice, or taken whole to the processing area where guides and processors break it down, ice it, and prepare it for final processing and packaging. Hunt Day Logistics What does a typical hunt day look like? Guides pick up guests at the parking area or their lodging. You're then transported into the field and hunting begins. A midday break at the lodge or cottage can be arranged. Hunts end when all animals on the package have been harvested or shooting light is lost. What time do hunts begin? Start times vary throughout the year, but guides typically aim to have guests in the field by sunrise. Sessions last until all animals are harvested or legal shooting hours end per state regulations. How do we access the hunting areas? Both vehicle and on foot. The ranch has several Polaris side-by-sides for transport. Once in hunting areas, you move on foot for stealth and to access terrain that vehicles can't reach. How many hunters go out per guide? The hunter-to-guide ratio will never exceed 2:1 — two hunters to one guide. What firearms and calibers do you recommend? Common calibers include .308, .270, .223, .243, and 6.5 Creedmoor. For larger bucks and longer-range shots, hunters often bring 6.5 PRC, 7 PRC, or magnum calibers like 7mm and .300 Winchester. More important than caliber selection is proper shot placement and ammo selection. Can guests hunt with a bow? Yes, we also guide archery hunts on the property. What firearm regulations apply in Hawai'i? Hawai'i has regulations that may make certain firearms and accessories legal in other states illegal here. The minimum legal barrel length for rifles is 16 inches, and suppressors are illegal to own or possess in the state. What safety protocols are in place during hunts? Guide staff are in constant communication with ranch management. Hunts are preplanned for safe distance from daily ranch activities. We have preplanned evacuation routes and contingency plans with local first responders. All staff are first aid and CPR trained and certified, with a first aid kit available at all times. The Lodge & Accommodations Where do hunters stay? Hunters can stay on-property at the lodge or a cottage. Off-property options include Hotel Moloka'i and various condos or rentals. What meals are provided? Meals are prepared by our chef from fresh, local ingredients. The quality is incredible and the meals are absolutely world-class. What facilities are available at the lodge? The lodge features a yoga deck, lounging area, pool, and several e-bikes available for guests to enjoy during their stay. Is there cell service or internet at the ranch? Cell service can be somewhat spotty in certain areas, but Wi-Fi is available in the cottages and lodge. Can non-hunting guests come along? Yes, non-hunting guests are welcome to join and can even observe hunts, as long as the hunting party stays small enough to maximize chances of a successful harvest. How far is the ranch from the Moloka'i airport? Approximately one hour. Alamo rental is available at the airport, along with other rental services and Turo options. A taxi and shuttle service is also available. Airport transport can be arranged through Bucks and Bones Outfitters for an additional charge. What should guests know about staying on the East End? The east end of Moloka'i is very remote and undeveloped — and the residents enjoy it that way. Many families have lived on this end of the island for multiple generations with deep connections to the land. It is important to be mindful and respectful of the local community. Experience Level & Physical Preparation What level of hunting experience is required? No experience required. We have had numerous guests harvest their first animals with us. Our guide staff is very comfortable coaching and educating new hunters. How physically fit does a hunter need to be? The more fit you are, the easier and more enjoyable your hunt will be. That said, we are able to tailor hunting styles and areas to different physical limitations. Our guides handle as much of the heavy lifting as possible. What can someone do to prepare physically? Spending time hiking with a weighted pack or running to improve cardio are both excellent preparation. Can first-time hunters participate? Yes. For first-time hunters, we slow down the pace and work to give every opportunity for the maximum odds of a successful harvest. Do guests need a Hawai'i hunting license? Yes. All guests planning to hunt will need a valid Hawai'i hunting license. These are available online through the Hawai'i Department of Land and Natural Resources website. Are there any age restrictions? Yes, the minimum required age to acquire a hunting license in Hawai'i is 10 years of age. Booking & What's Included How do guests book a hunt? Hunts can be booked online or by calling our office or hospitality manager. The process involves selecting a hunt package, then confirming availability for lodging and guides during your preferred dates. What is included in the guided hunt package? All guide fees (excluding gratuity), transportation to and from hunting areas, and field dressing — which includes gutting, deboning, and packing. What is NOT included that guests should budget for? Depending on arrangements, guests should plan to budget for meals, taxidermy services, equipment rentals, game processing, gear, and shipping of processed venison. Can the ranch accommodate corporate groups or large parties? Yes. Larger parties may need to be broken into smaller groups and rotated through hunts on a daily basis to maintain a safe and effective guide-to-hunter ratio. Are there combo packages that include other ranch experiences? Yes. All lodge bookings include one additional ranch activity alongside the room and hunt. Farm tours, horseback rides, and other ranch activities are available à la carte. Fishing trips with Bucks and Bones Outfitters can also be coordinated with hunting dates. Gear & Packing What should guests pack for a multi-day hunt? Adequate clothing for the total number of hunting days, including extra sets of socks, underwear, and boots or shoes. Wet weather gear and insulating layers for inclement weather are also a good idea. If you don't own camouflage, earth tones like browns, greens, and tans work well. Should hunters bring their own firearm or is rental available? Hunters are welcome to bring their own firearms. We also have several rifles available to rent for guests who prefer to simplify travel by not transporting firearms. What optics are recommended? High-quality optics are strongly recommended. For riflescopes, a variable zoom of at least 3–9x magnification is preferred. For binoculars, 10x or 12x works well. Any high-quality rangefinder will be adequate. Is blaze orange required? No. Blaze orange is not required on the ranch as it is all private land. Are there gear items most hunters forget or underestimate? Do not underestimate the importance of high-quality, supportive footwear with good traction. General What makes Moloka'i special as a hunting destination? Moloka'i is special not only for its unique natural and cultural history, but also for its people and community. The opportunity to harvest multiple animals in a day, on this backdrop, with guides born and raised on the island who have been hunting these animals their entire lives, makes for a truly rich and unique experience. What other experiences does the ranch offer beyond hunting? The ranch offers several additional activities, all listed at www.puuohoku.com. What is the ranch's philosophy around conservation and game management? Our philosophy centers on restoration of the landscape and native species. Although trophy-caliber bucks are on the property, we do not consider ourselves specifically a trophy hunting operation. We focus on controlling overall animal numbers as a means of conservation and restoring balance to the landscape. We look forward to welcoming you to the ranch. Mahalo — and we'll see you in the field. EMAIL: hunting@puuohoku.com | PHONE: 808.558.8109 | WEB: www.puuohoku.com

Welcome to Pu'u O Hōkū Ranch Booking a hunt at Pu'u O Hōkū Ranch means you're not just planning a trip — you're stepping into one of the most extraordinary places in the Hawaiian Islands. Perched on the lush eastern tip of Moloka'i, our ranch is a historic, family-owned working ranch, and we can't wait to share it with you. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or experiencing your first axis deer hunt, we promise this will be unlike anything you've ever done. Pu'u O Hōkū — meaning "Hill of Stars" in ʻŌlelo Hawāiʻi (Hawaiian language) — is a 14,000-acre family-owned working ranch that has been a cornerstone of Moloka'i since 1933. Situated on the island's eastern end, the ranch encompasses rolling pastures, dense native forest, dramatic coastline, and sweeping views that stretch to Maui and Lānaʻi on a clear day. A significant portion of the land is protected through conservation. Moloka'i is one of Hawai'i's most rural islands, home to a community of around 7,000 people — and far more axis deer. The ranch is a working active agricultural operation. Moloka'i: Hawai'i's Most Authentic Island Moloka'i is unlike any other island in Hawai'i — and that's exactly what makes it special. There are no traffic lights on Moloka'i. No sprawling resorts, no congested highways, no rush. What you'll find instead is an island that moves at its own pace, one that has held on to its culture, its quiet, and its wild beauty more fiercely than anywhere else in the state. The World's Tallest Sea Cliffs The north shore of Moloka'i is home to the tallest sea cliffs on Earth — some soaring over 3,000 feet straight out of the Pacific. They are breathtaking and humbling in equal measure, a reminder of just how ancient and powerful this island truly is. The Second Largest Living Reef in the World Stretching along the south shore, Moloka'i's barrier reef is the second largest living reef in the United States and one of the most pristine in the world. Its health is a testament to the island's commitment to living gently on the land. The Birthplace of Hula Moloka'i is widely recognized as the birthplace of hula, the sacred art form that has carried Hawaiian culture and history through generations. The island's spiritual significance runs deep, and you can feel it in the land, the wind, and the people. A Legacy of Fishponds At one time, Moloka'i was home to more than 200 ancient Hawaiian fishponds — remarkable feats of aquaculture engineering that fed communities across the island. You can still see their stone walls and remnants along the coastline today, quiet monuments to the ingenuity of those who lived here long before us. Hālawa Valley Hālawa Valley, at the island's eastern end, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited valleys in Hawai'i. Framed by dramatic cliffs and fed by twin waterfalls that plunge nearly 500 feet, the valley is home to ancient taro lo'i, sacred heiau, and a living cultural tradition that continues to this day. Conservation Hunting How Your Hunt Makes a Difference Axis deer are delicious animals — and on Moloka'i, they are also one of the most significant threats to the island's fragile ecosystem. Introduced to Hawai'i in the 19th century, axis deer have no natural predators here. Left unchecked, their numbers grow rapidly, and their grazing and browsing devastate the native vegetation that holds the island's watershed together. When you hunt at Pu'u O Hōkū Ranch, you are directly contributing to the health of the land. Every deer harvested helps protect the watershed, reduce erosion, and give native plants the space they need to recover and thrive. This is conservation hunting in its truest form — where your pursuit in the field has real, lasting impact on one of the most special places in the world. "By coming here and hunting with us, you're not just a guest — you're a steward of this ʻāina." Where You'll Stay After a day in the field, you deserve a place to exhale. We offer several accommodation options to suit your group and style — each one rooted in the character and history of the ranch. The Historic Lodge Built in 1935, our lodge is a piece of living history. Guest rooms are available for rent and offer a warm, comfortable retreat at the end of each day. Mornings and evenings are anchored by farm-to-table meals prepared by our talented on-site chef — expect fresh, local ingredients, generous portions, and flavors that reflect the spirit of Moloka'i. This is ranch hospitality at its finest. The Cottage For those looking for a more private experience, our cottage offers a standalone retreat set within the beauty of the ranch. It's a peaceful, secluded option for small groups or couples who want to feel truly at home on the land. Hunt Packages with Housing Included When available, we offer hunt packages that bundle your accommodations directly with your hunt. Contact us to check availability and current package offerings. We are honored to share this place with you. Moloka'i has a way of getting under your skin — in the best possible way. We think you'll leave not just with a great hunt, but with a deep appreciation for one of the most remarkable corners of Hawai'i. Mahalo — and we'll see you on the ranch. EMAIL: hunting@puuohoku.com | PHONE: 808.558.8109 | WEB: www.puuohoku.com

Hunting at Pu'u O Hōkū Ranch is unlike anywhere else in Hawai'i. With over 14,000 acres of remote East Moloka'i land — from deep gulches and dense forest to open ridge lines with sweeping ocean views — you are stepping into some of the most diverse and productive hunting terrain in the state. Axis deer and wild pigs are abundant on the property, and our experienced guides design every hunt around you — your goals, your fitness, your experience level, and the conditions on the ground that day. Every hunt at the ranch comes with a high probability of seeing animals, getting a shot, and going home with meat. That is not a promise you will find everywhere. Here is what a typical hunt experience looks like. Full Day, Half Day & Timing Axis deer are most active during the cooler hours of the day. Early morning and evening are peak movement windows — and those are the sessions we prioritize. Full day hunts begin before first light, typically departing the lodge by 5:30–6:00 AM. You can hunt straight through or take a midday break and head back out for an evening session. Half day hunts run either morning (departure at first light) or evening (departure 3–4 hours before dark). Both formats give you quality time in the field during the hours when animals are moving. Terrain & Hunt Style The ranch offers a genuinely diverse hunting environment, and your guide will work with you to find the style that fits best: Spot & Stalk: Glass from a high point, identify your target, close the distance on foot. This is active, physical hunting across ridge lines and open terrain — rewarding for hunters who like to work for their animal. Sit & Wait: Post up near well-used travel corridors, water, or feeding areas and let the animals come to you. A more patient, methodical approach that works well in the gulches and forest edges. Vehicle-Based: Cover ground in a Polaris or 4WD, glassing from the vehicle and hunting close to the road system. A good option for guests with mobility considerations or for covering more country efficiently. High Country: Hike into the upper elevations to hunt mature bucks in remote terrain. More demanding physically, more rewarding in terms of the experience and the quality of animals found. Your guide will discuss options the evening before and build a plan based on conditions, your preference, and what the animals are doing. The experience is genuinely bespoke. Rifle & Archery Hunting Rifle hunts are the most common format at the ranch. Shots in the 100–200 yard range are typical, though the terrain allows for both close-range opportunities in the forest and longer shots on open ridgelines. Bring a caliber you are comfortable with and a scope zeroed for your expected range. Archery hunts are available with advance notice. Bowhunting here demands patience and positioning — your guide will focus on placing you on well-worn deer paths and active travel corridors to set up ethical shots at close range. It is a more immersive, challenging experience and one we are proud to offer. Animals & Realistic Expectations The ranch carries one of the largest Axis deer populations in Hawai'i. On almost every hunt, guests see multiple animals. Shot opportunities are frequent, and our guests consistently harvest one or more deer per trip. We are honest with you: we cannot guarantee a trophy buck, but we can tell you that animal encounters are the rule, not the exception. While we do not offer exclusive trophy hunts, trophy-class bucks (26" spread and above) are present on the property and sightings are common. The best window for finding bucks in hard antler is May through October. Should a hunter choose to harvest a trophy buck, there is an additional fee of $1,500. Wild pig are present across the property year-round and add a genuine element of surprise to almost any hunt. Pigs are opportunistic encounters — your guide will make a quick call on whether conditions are right to pursue when one is spotted. Weather & What to Wear The east end of Moloka'i is the island's windward, wetter side. Mornings are typically clear and ideal; afternoon clouds and trade wind showers are common, especially in the winter months (November through March). A lightweight rain jacket is always worth packing. Temperatures are warm — generally 70–85°F — with a breeze that keeps conditions comfortable in the field. The terrain is uneven, steep in places, and can be slick when wet. Bring a pair of quality, broken-in hiking or hunting boots with ankle support. This single item will make more difference to your comfort than almost anything else you pack. Rifles, Rentals & Meat Processing Traveling with a rifle to Moloka'i is straightforward. Firearms must be unloaded and stored in a locked hard case when flying — standard TSA protocol. If you prefer not to travel with your own, the ranch has rental rifles available; just let us know when you book. Meat processing is handled in-house. You are welcome to bring a personal cooler and depart with your harvest, or we can process and ship your meat anywhere in the continental United States via two-day air for a flat fee of $150. It is a simple, clean option that means you leave with nothing to carry and your meat arrives at your door in perfect condition. Please note that Mokulele Airlines will not let you carry antlers back on their flights. We can arrange for local taxidermy work and shipping of antlers or mount separately. Making the Most of Extra Meat Axis deer doe are plentiful on the property, and many hunters find themselves with more meat than they can take home. There are a couple of great options for putting that venison to good use. If you harvest extra does and don't need the meat, you can donate them directly to the local hunting club here on Moloka'i, which distributes venison out to families and community members across the island. It's a meaningful way to give back to the ʻāina and the people who call this place home. Alternatively, Axis venison makes an exceptional gift. If you want to hunt extra does and send the meat to friends or family on the mainland, we can handle all of the processing and ship it two-day air anywhere in the country for $150 per shipment. It's one of the more unique and thoughtful gifts you can give — wild-harvested Hawaiian venison you harvested, straight from Moloka'i to their door. Lodging at the Ranch Pu'u O Hōkū Ranch offers on-property lodging so you can stay close by and be ready at first light. We have two options depending on the size of your group: Ranch Cottages: Two private cottages, each with three beds (2-bedrooms), available for individual or small group bookings. Both cottages are equipped with full kitchens if you prefer to cook for yourself. Pre-made meals prepared by the ranch can also be arranged at an additional cost — a convenient option after a long day in the field. The Lodge: Available for exclusive buyout or individual room bookings, the main lodge sleeps up to 28 across its private bedrooms and includes complete meal service. This is the ideal option for larger groups, corporate parties, or anyone who wants a fully catered, turnkey hunting retreat. Lodging can be added onto any hunt package. To explore options or reserve your accommodations, visit www.puuohoku.com or contact us at hospitality@puuohoku.com. Mahalo! To book your hunt or ask questions, contact us at hunting@puuohoku.com or 808.558.8109 Hours of Operations: 7am – 3:30 pm (HST), Monday - Friday

Location

Hawaii, United States

Exact meeting details are shared after booking.

Questions? We're here anytime.

Call +1 (225) 831-8211 or email bookings@mallardbay.com

+1 (225) 831-8211 bookings@mallardbay.com