We ended up having a fine week of fishing last week. No "barn burners," just consistent 20-40 fish days. We had to work for everything we caught and it paid off in the form of heavy fillet bags and smiling faces.
However, we ended the week on Saturday only catching two fish. It was a frustrating day in that we saw so much potential for a spectacular day if only the fish would decide to bite. Although making some good catches throughout the week non-biting Albacore had been the story. School after school of Albacore, the majority of which having a severe case of "lock jaw." If only a couple of these schools would have decided to bite a 100 fish day would not be inconceivable.
We have several theories why these fish would not bite. One, with such beautiful weather and no wind we had no drift. Therefore our bait, both chum and hooked, were not able to get away from the boat. Just like fishing on the anchor with no current. Two, the Albacore we did capture were full of squid. Although we have seen a lot of this this season, when we have had our best catches we have found less squid in there bellies. These are just a couple of reasons why we think they have not been so eager. Weather there is any truth to our theories is hard to say, but it makes sense to us.
We have reason to be excited about the upcoming weeks though. We have seen a greater volume of Albacore than what we saw even when we were making catches. These fish are around and it is only a matter of time before they decide to bite. Hopefully we will be on the grounds with some hungry tuna fisherman when the time comes.