Funnel-shaped traps were known as hina `i`opae in old Hawaii. They were used mainly by women to catch `opae (shrimp) in kahawai (fresh water streams). Traps could also be used by men in the shallow water near shore to catch reef fish like hinalea. This trap gets its name from its shape, which resembles a large funnel with a small, closed end. Traps were made from the aerial roots of the `ie`ie plant. Smaller traps could be made from the awikiwiki plant.

All along the kahawai or stream women would search for the 'opae by moving small stones around or by using sticks to carefully scrape the stream bed. The `opae like sheltered places, so the fisherwomen would force them into grass, or other protected places (like where tree branches dangle over the water). The trap would be camouflaged by the grasses, and the `opae would scurry right inside. However, they are small and quick, so one had to be quick to catch them!