This ono was caught by Uncle J, a local Maui fisherman who likes to fish by kayak. I first met Uncle J at a local event where we talked story and shared our love of Hawaiian fish and fishing. Soon after, he asked me to print this beautiful ono for him. The first of many fish to come! I work quickly, keeping the fish cool and using non-toxic soy ink, so that the fish can be enjoyed in a meal shared with family and friends afterwards.
Prepping it using whatever I have on hand to prop up its fins and tail. 
Work in process.
Using the direct printing technique on unryu paper made from mulberry, I was able to create a nice gyotaku rubbing for Uncle and a couple more to add to my studio’s body of work.
Ono inhabit coastal and offshore waters near the surface where they form small groups which feed upon small fish and squid. Extremely fast swimmers with strong jaws and razor-sharp teeth. The ono was said by ancient Hawaiians to be the “makua” of the mackeral, meaning a protective parent or relative. An excellent food fish with firm light flesh, the Hawaiian name ono means delicious.
