Though our operating theater is slightly altered at the big island by military maneuvers, I have to comment that the Mexican Navy, in particular the base here at Socorro, could not be more welcoming, or more willing to offer as much access as possible. And it just so happened, following the customary meet and greet with the base, that the area we were directed towards offered the best sign of fish. What a fortunate coincidence that could just have easily gone the opposite direction.

Overall I would classify today's results as a good warm up with just over fifty yellowfin tuna tagged and released most of which were between 50 and 90 pounds. There were a few standouts over 100, and a few underwhelmer's at less than forty, but no one was too concerned with "measuring up" just yet as the pressing hunger to pull and catch is prominent.

Content to prospect this zone for at least one more day we will focus on the most productive area revealed by today's search. We didn't really get located until well after the noon hour so we will see if a repeat with more time in the right place will yield better results. Whether it does or doesn't I can say based on today's indications that it will not be from lack of fish. They are definitely here in force.

Photo today features a picturesque Socorro setting the backdrop for long time Royal Star veteran Don Ballanti who finally ventured a tagging voyage to visit the entire Revillagigedo island chain and do his part for science. An exceptional angler, Don got right in the action shifting gears to big fish mode without a hitch. No doubt there are many more cherished moments pending for Don during this adventure. This one was pretty idyllic.

Tim

Photo Here...