What Is a Papio Fish

Papio (ulua) is the Hawaiian name for a very large game fish seen on many Island menus. In Hawaii the term papio is only used for ulua under 12 lbs. Part of the jack family, these large fish provide a mild tasting white meat . The smaller papio can be prepared broiled, fried, sauteed or baked.

What kind of fish is a Papio?

Papio, in short, is the young fish of the trevally or jack family. It is predominantly found in Hawaii! In fact, it is a major local dish there. When papio mature, they are able to grow over 100 lbs and are known as ulua.

What is the difference between Omilu and Papio?

The major difference is color, as the ‘ulua are solid grey and lack the colorful blue fins. But when both species are young they may all hang out together in one large school of 20 to 50 fish. The small ‘ulua or ‘omilu are called “papio,” as they have a different Hawaiian name then the adults.