Gon Freecss, a young boy living on Whale Island, manages to catch the local legend called the Master of the Swamp. When he brings the massive fish back to his aunt Mito, she fulfills her promise to allow Gon to take the infamous Hunter Exam. Those who pass the Hunter Exam are granted travel opportunities and privileges that most people can only dream of, so despite its incredible danger, thousands of people apply every year. Gon hopes to follow in the footsteps of his father, a famous Hunter, and discover for himself why being a Hunter is so amazing. As Gon sets out on his journey, he begins to experience the first of many difficulties that the exam will pose.