Though far slower throughout the day we were actually appreciative of the break that allowed our refrigeration to catch up following a big morning. And what we don't need now is a bunch more fish. More big ones we can and will accommodate, more smaller models will be liberated. Despite the slower mid day pace there were still a few highlights in the form of big trophies. A 277 and a 264, along with a couple of other deuces and a couple of other missed shots, were the headlines, but the hot and heavy predawn through daylight morning pace was the real McCoy.

The boys brought their A game to the party, and so did every angler on board, making the most of our chances amidst an atmosphere right on the edge. All big gear, all big baits – this was the most perfect example of this fishery that I can think of. All of us are drinking it up reveling in the caliber of this opportunity. It doesn't happen like this every time. Knowing that, and appreciating every minute, we forge into our final full day ready to get down and bare knuckle brawl with more of these big boys tomorrow.

Photos today features Royal Star and long time long range veteran Don Louchois and Blake with Don's beautiful 225. Photo number two features master angler and Royal Star veteran Neil Barbour with a dandy 277 picked off on the mid day chunk.