No doubt we were living right today with a handful of good stops on mixed 20 - 40# albacore and 20 - 50# yellowfin tuna that added up to a fantastic day of offshore fishing. Combined with near flat calm conditions, a better set up could not be drafted, and we took full advantage of the opportunity before breaking from the effort in the late afternoon to set up our next day of fishing at Guadalupe. What a day of fishing culminating with a full blown afternoon ripper for fifty two big albies and forty three yellowfin that was hot and heavy for about thirty full minutes as the guys sweated to keep up and maintain the premium quality condition our product is so well known for. It was one of those all hands stops when even our incredibly talented galley crew joined the fray swinging gaffs and directing traffic adding their efforts to the benefit of anglers and crewmen alike.

I know I have spoken many times of the culinary talents the Royal Star galley team of Chef's Drew Rivera, Jeffery Grant, and assistant Tommy Grant exhibit. When it comes to dining on board a San Diego long range vessel they are in a league of their own. But, in addition to being maritime chef's of superb ability, they are incredibly adept seamen and a big part of our on deck crew when the fishing gets hot and heavy; especially Chef Drew Rivera who is almost as good at the rail as our full time crewmen. Team players is an understatement when describing these men who in addition to whipping out first class cuisine, roll up their sleeves and pitch in on whatever task necessary to maintain forward momentum . I can not extend enough praise or sufficient accolades to appropriately credit their ability, effort, and contributions to our consistent success.

So, with a very good beginning to the voyage we are headed south planning to put in a couple of days at the big island targeting trophy yellowfin tuna and yellowtail before resuming the final day offshore search. I don't want to get too far ahead of myself however as there are a slew of variables pending that could affect our game plan. In a perfect world we will follow the stated format though making a go of it at the island for at least the next two days. We are ready. I can say with certainty that it sure feels good to be heading for the outside island, that I have recently begun referring to as "the crucible", with a huge head start chilled in the first RSW tank. With Guadalupe's penchant for dishing out tough conditions and consistent reluctance to yield the boomer catch, we are well positioned to patiently scratch away at quality with money in the bank so to speak. We will see.

Look for tomorrow's report with the details and enjoy today's, back by popular demand, photos of anglers Bob Palatella, and Wayne Tamanaha with Captain's Randy Toussaint and Brian Sims at the gaff. After much prodding we have finally relented and daily photos will again be part of our regular posting. As the saying goes "a picture is worth a thousand words". Enjoy.

Tim

Photo Here...
Photo Here...