Success in the form of a few tasty cactus complimented the final passage north in restored calm weather. Such was not the case last night, when we did some classic bumpin' and jumpin' for a while, but the discomfort was brief and served as a reminder of how good we have had it since the departing southeaster abated. In overview we have had it good from many perspectives.

Foremost the annual "Las Rocas" charter, hosted by Glenn Evans and Tommy Walker, is exemplary when it comes to this style of fishing. While the main thrust is focused on trophy yellowfin tuna, these anglers are rigged and prepared for anything. They make the best of whatever opportunity comes along. Recognizing that the extraordinary run a few years back was exactly that - extraordinary, they handily adapted to the different program this voyage making the most of what was available. It was not a boon, but certainly enough, and ultimately the fine load on board featuring the coveted big three - quantity, quality, and variety attests to the success of our collective effort; they couldn't have done it without our drive and ability producing opportunity, we couldn't have done it without their dedication and effort producing results.

Our many thanks go out to this group as we grab a couple of days in to remind ourselves of the good fortune we share. I have to mention that this voyage was somewhat of a reawakening for me personally as I have not enjoyed the chance to pound away at the fishing offshore for quite some time. This is my favorite style of fishing, when we must employ all our skills and ability over many days to make it happen. And when we do, the results are rich in value. When it is not easy, when the playing field is not leveled by stupendous amounts of hungry fish that make heroes of one and all - this is fishing. These are the times when differences between operators and operations are glaringly apparent.

I have previously offered my distaste for the occasional generic periods in this fishery when the distinct nature of each operation is marginalized by a lack of options and/or opportunity. When the fishing down below switches to offshore such is rarely the case. The excitement of this style of fishing is unmatched; the competition between colleagues is intense; the rewards are richly satisfying, it is old school fishing, where the results consistently favor ability - nothing generic, or equal, about it. I am invigorated, and exhilarated after a successful day in such circumstances; and there were several during this run. And, I look forward to a whole lot more.

In closing I extend our most gracious, sincere thanks to one and all on the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. From the entire Royal Star team Happy Thanksgiving 2011. Captain Randy Toussaint and Captain Brian Sims will be heading up the next voyage departing on the 24th with aspirations focused on maintaining productive happenings below. Our final voyage photo features the entire "Las Rocas" group on the day of departure - seems like a year ago since this image was taken. What a long, successful, satisfying voyage it has been. We look forward to many more to come. Thank you all again!

Tim Ekstrom
Randy Toussaint
Brian Sims
Tracy Toussaint
Sean Bickel
Steve Gregonis
Blake Wasano
Paul Caramao
Gregg Tanji
Drew Rivera
Jeffery Grant
Justin Jackson

Photo Here...