Lure Maker Bio
Aliʻi Kai Lures are handcrafted big game trolling lures made in Kailua Kona, Hawaii by charter captain and lure maker Shawn Rotella. With more than 20 years of experience fishing Hawaii’s offshore waters, Rotella designs and tests his lures aboard his Kona charter boat, Night Runner, targeting blue marlin, ahi (yellowfin tuna), ono (wahoo), mahi mahi (dorado), and other pelagic gamefish.
Mentored by Tom Futa and influenced by legendary Hawaiian lure maker Joe Yee, Rotella continues to use many of Futa’s original molds and wooden masters to produce Aliʻi Kai Lures. His extensive on-the-water experience and successful tournament fishing career have helped shape a lineup of proven Kona trolling lures trusted by offshore anglers throughout Hawaii and beyond.
Known for their quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and fish-raising action, Aliʻi Kai Lures are designed for targeting blue marlin, striped marlin, ahi, ono, and other offshore species. Each lure is handcrafted in Kona and refined aboard Night Runner, ensuring every design is tested in the same waters where some of the world’s best big game fishing takes place.
The name Aliʻi Kai means “King of the Sea,” reflecting the brand’s deep roots in Hawaii’s legendary big game fishing tradition.
Shipping
USA: Free FedEx on orders $175+
Hawaii, Guam, U.S. Outer Islands: Free shipping
International: Free FedEx $449+ | $25 FedEx $250+ | $40 FedEx on all other orders