A little history lesson:

“This is a model of an ancient fishing shrine where Hawaiians worshipped the Ku’ula diety, or fish god. In ancient times, these fishing shirenes were found near the shore.

The large stone on top of the platform represents Kamoho ‘alii, or theking of sharks. The smaller upright stone epresents the freshwater fish, O’opu. The eight grey-black stones rperesent the eight seas surrounding the eight islands of Hawai’i where the shark resigned. Seven of these same stones also represent the seven nights of the month when fishing was most favorable. 

In ancient Hawai’i, thos skilled int eh art of fishing wwere held in high regard. Methods of fishing included nets, hooks and lines, spears, traps, poisons and by hand.

Fishermen would make offerings at fishing shrines prior to their fishing trip- for protection against the perils of the sea and to insure a good catch. The first fish they had caught was brought back and offered to the gods.”