A potentially huge day reduced to a respectable score that reminded all of the hooked tuna’s status in the tropical oceanic food chain. Voracious, highly motivated sharks proved themselves time and again in high stakes battles of man and tuna versus predator. Bastards. In a beautifully stunning setting abundant with sign regardless of the lumps we took it was a mission well worth the time and effort. One that indelible memories are made of. A first time visit to the legendary Alijos Rocks for many all enjoyed a front row seat to reality of this Jurassic zone when tropical conditions prevail. 

In the end on a one to ten scale of dealing with sharks this rated around a six or seven. Once we geared up appropriately we were able to drag an acceptable percentage through the gauntlet. That said, as beautiful as these larger tropical yellowfin tuna are, morality and morale required a relocation at days end. Still in the green on the weather front balmy, near flat calm conditions made for a fine ride east where the search continues tomorrow. Today’s image features long time Royal Star angler and friend Tom Benson with a perfect example of the premium grade tropical variety yellowfin many anglers scrapped with today. Highly spirited and tough as nails these devils pound for pound are easily the most challenging opponents a long range angler will face. Congrats to Tom on this fine, 100 pound class beauty!