Skeeter the fish is a Yellowtail Coris that lives at Molokini crater off the Island of Maui, Hawaii.

He is a very special fish.

Skeeter became friends with divemaster Jules Cricchio years ago, soon coming to recognize her whenever she brought a group of divers to the crater. He knows she will flip rocks for him and help him find tasty things to eat. He comes right up to her face and stays within a couple of feet while she wiggles her fingers and turns things over.

Skeeter comes charging to Jules whenever she shows up and waves, often from far away on the reef. Sometimes, he brings a girlfriend, part of his harem.

Jules and the entire Lahaina Divers crew were out of the water for several months at the start of the COVID pandemic. She was afraid Skeeter wouldn’t be there when she returned. Much to her relief, Skeeter was still there when Jules returned and recognized her immediately.

It has been several years now since I first met Skeeter. He continues to bring joy to all who know his story.

There is a postscript to add this month, August 2023. Jules and her boyfriend lost their home in the Lahaina fire. She also lost her job. The Lahaina Divers store burned down, and both of their dive boats were burned and sank in the harbor. Jules was able to escape with her two dogs and nothing else.

My husband and I were on the island when all of this happened. We were able to contact Jules and knew what had happened to her, but had no plans to see her in the midst of the chaos.

Several days after the fire, we went diving in another part of Maui. I asked on the boat if anyone knew how to find Skeeter, and a woman’s voice exclaimed, “I know how to find Skeeter!” I turned to look, and it was Jules! The captain had offered the dive professionals on the island a chance to get in the water, and Jules was there. We shared a huge hug and a long talk. I was so glad to be able to give her some support. She told the dive pros about Skeeter and where to find him. We were thrilled to get to dive together again.

We got into the water. Jules waved, and Skeeter came flying! He brought a girlfriend with him. Jules, my husband, and I all got to play with him. I could hear Jules exclaim underwater. It was a privilege to see the reunion of these old friends once more.

Update 2025: Jules has been back to Maui and visits Skeeter every time. He always knows her. My husband and I continue to visit Skeeter, most recently last month. Our guide banged two rocks together, and there he was. The other local dive guides all know Skeeter now, and he is visited regularly.