February – Kaulua/Hilionalu

SOURCE: WESTERN PACIFIC REGIONAL FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL

In traditional Hawaiian communities, the Makahiki (New Year) season usually ended in February. February, the first month of the growing season, is known for predictable rains and a mixture of cold and warm weather. Additionally, February comes with a kapu (taboo) on fishing ‘opelu (Mackerel Scad) and a noa (freedom, lifting of kapu) on aku (Skipjack Tuna). Hawaiians would locate schools of aku by watching where seabirds, such as the Hawaiian Noddy Tern, would gather and dive in the ocean.

ōhai ka manu maluna, he iʻa ko lolo
When the birds circle above, there are fish below.

Hawaiian Noddy Terns would lead fishermen to schools of aku (Skipjack Tuna). Source: ebird.org

Sources: Project Kāhea Loko – A Teacher’s Guide to Hawaiian Fishponds; 2016 Hawaiian Lunar Calendar (Classroom edition) by Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council