Big Game Lures Hawaii was founded in 2018 by me, Sylvie Madison, a few years after I moved to Kailua Kona. I had been living in Phuket, Thailand for 14 years. I am originally from California.
While in Thailand I worked as a scuba instructor and always loved the ocean. It wasn’t until moving to Kona that I was introduced to Big Game Fishing and of course, the lures...!
I had previously founded and operated (and sold) a successful online store in Thailand, so I knew I wanted to start an online business again when I moved here, and was searching for the right niche.
I was selling stuff on Ebay and realized there was a huge demand for Hawaiian lures after having bought a few at a yard sale. This was how my husband I were introduced to big game fishing. Needless to say we were hooked.
We also developed a greater understanding about the pride of catching one's own food, and how big game fishing and conservation can go hand-in-hand.
Kailua Kona IS the trolling lure and blue marlin capital of the world and I realized I had opportunities here unavailable anywhere else. I set out to learn as much as I could. This included meeting lure makers (and fishing with them) hearing the salty stories and learning about the rich history of big game fishing.
Big Game Lures Hawaii was started because I knew I could offer something different, a larger variety and great prices! It also offered me a way to sell Hawaiian made products, promote Kona fishing and give more exposure to Hawiian lure makers.
Photo 1 -Me after a lure haul, one of many
Photo 2 -1st from right, fish weigh-in during 2nd Wahine Tournament. We fished with Captain Rob Ellyn on Lightspeed. We also won the Ahi side bet :).
Photo 3 - Gary Eoff at his home signing his Deluxe Ruckus and Premium Ruckus with abalone shell for my customers, we will be adding more to the website.
Notable Press: In The Bite- Fishing Stories: Kona Bigeye Bonanza
Honokohau Harbor, Kailua Kona, Hawaii - Where it all started!