Classic Guadalupe, signature, fantastic by a standard far different than the rock 'em, sock 'em, load up type action we so often associate with long range. Though we have found action to fit that description on plenty of occasions on the outside, more often it is a patience game targeting one, two, or maybe, if one is on the right side of fortunate, a handful of opportunities per day. Typically however, and today was no exception, when an angler puts in the time and uses proper equipment, the opportunities translate into something exceptional on the end of the line.

In summary we poked, prodded, kicked, and fought our way through scant sign and slow fishing moving the boat about a hundred times attempting to grasp the gold ring inches beyond reach. Fourteen hours of daylight seems like plenty until one is trying to wring a catch out of Guadalupe. When conditions are right, and today they certainly were, the amount of area alone represents a challenge. Without giving away the store I will offer that local knowledge goes a long way. From the myriad of options available certain conditions and past history can overlap to suggest plenty to a fishing Captain with history here.

The culmination of the day's effort was a big reward, relative in terms of course, but an exceptional opportunity that ended our time on the outside on a perfect note. It was good fishing, for all good one's - yellowfin tuna in the 65 - 85# class and 25 - 35# yellowtail; everyone got even on this go around. Departing the island for a final morning offshore we feel good about the potential discovered, but still feel the best is yet to come. However, I'd be willing to bet that every angler presently on board might feel differently following yesterday afternoon's action. We had a good taste, that's for certain, and what we accumulated in the hatch will be impressive come unloading on Saturday. This was long range fishing defined - exceptional and unique amidst a setting grandiose, spectacular, and awe inspiring. There is no place like it.

A couple of fine examples of the grade and classic Guadalupe conditions in today's photos. Royal Star veterans Larry Nelson, with crewman Steve Gregonis, and Corey Pierce, demonstrating the tuna "bear hug", are both rightly pleased with their sixty five to seventy pound trophies that are certain to grill up fine or be served in sushi form fresh from our RSW tanks. After the typical flat calm conditions at Guadalupe, exceptional emphasis we place on professional fish handling, and only a couple of days in the tanks, the quality of the product from this round will be impossible to best; signature Royal Star.

Tim Ekstrom


Photo Here...

Photo Here...