Fish Report for 10-21-2006

Royal Star Fish Report

10-21-2006
Royal Star

A picture perfect ending to the fishing phase of our voyage with the second spot ventured producing fantastic action on beach grade yellowtail we typically define as twelve to eighteen pound fish. Incredible weather, beautiful scenery, and a motivated school of yellowtail biting any form of bait or lure anglers chose to use and, as reported, it was an ideal finishing round to what has been a excellent fall ten day voyage.

Now, with that said I am again compelled to reference the trophy yellowfin tuna phenomena of 2005 related to this voyage and beyond. Prior to 2005, the catch we presently have on board was considered fantastic for a fall ten day, and shy of a significant number of wahoo, was what any angler reserving space on such a voyage was hoping to encounter. My point is to emphasize the importance of maintaining expectations within the frame of our "normal" ten day voyages that, prior to 2005, featured variety fishing as their main attraction.
By no means am I saying the opportunities at giant yellowfin on these trips are over, or will not happen; it is certain that they will. But to use the fall 2005 record giant yellowfin catches as a measure of success today or beyond is, in my opinion, a big mistake. I believe as the future unfolds we will be reminded many times over just how spectacular, and unusual, the setting was in 2005. With that in mind I whole heartedly encourage anglers to hope that we will be lucky enough to experience the caliber of giant yellowfin action seen in 2005; just don't expect it.

That said we are now done fishing and will spend the day tomorrow traveling north planning on a early Saturday morning arrival in preparation for our next ten day voyage departing with Captain Toussaint at the helm. A favorable weather forecast, and confirming reports from others in our group heading down, should add up to a pleasant ride home.