Ah finally, and it didn't take long. We got in the game following a quick adjustment for conditions leading off with two mid deuces and almost twenty mid rangers from 110 - 160, in addition to a number of "nuisance" 30 - 60 pounders. This was from our first drift! Afterward the action slowed and aside from one fairly good afternoon hit we scratched our way along adding slowly to the morning tally. Adding is the key however: ever forward in pursuit of what feels like a moving goal - at least at the beginning of a voyage. Once we manage to accumulate a few in the hatch, or hatches, then we see there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

For now we are mighty content with a good start, and a set up that appears to offer plenty in the way of quality and quantity. But, this definitely does not feel like a lock, stock, and barrel guarantee. We are going to have to work for them. Fortunately this is our specialty. As good of a sea state as one could ask for compliments the effort and will continue a few more days. We are presently gathering steam for continuing success we hope to produce. In light of the fact that the Master Toussaint will be taking the helm tomorrow I'm feeling pretty confidant of our odds. I was the opener, going easy on the boys to warm them up; now it is straight business. Everyone who has fished with Randy knows exactly what I mean. And, I mean it in a good way; the man has my utmost respect - what a fisherman.

Photos today feature two near legends themselves southland anglers Todd Phillips and Mike Neal: Todd, as one of the finest, most capable anglers among us, and Mike as an exceptional angler in his own right whose action silhouette graces the cover of Bill Roecker's "At the Rail" guide to long range fishing. Both these fantastic anglers started off on the right foot to say the least landing their first fish of the voyage at 242 and 241.6 pounds respectively. What a beginning!. And, what a fine job both men did of handling their gear and making the opportunity count! That is what the fishery for giant yellowfin tuna is all about - capitalizing on the opportunities when they arise through practice and meticulous attention to rigging and equipment. A job well done by both anglers; we hope the first of many this voyage and beyond.

Tim Ekstrom

Photo Here...


Photo Here...