One pattern offshore that we have definitely nailed down so far this season is that one day has absolutely zero bearing on the next when it comes to catching albacore. Best said, fishing for albacore thus far has been consistently inconsistent. There was plenty of good catching to be had two days prior with a wide spread of vessels both seeing and putting together good scores on the wily longfin. Today was a very different story. For the most part the same wide spread of vessels, fishing in the same general areas, saw almost zero sign of albacore today but for a few small exceptions. Thankfully in our case we were one of those in the "few small exceptions" category, and though the catching was scant using traditional measures of success, success is all relative.

All kidding aside it was another long day offshore that was thankfully passed in good weather that provided plenty of opportunity to view spot after spot of tiny, 6 - 12# bluefin tuna that seemed to be everywhere instead of albacore. The tiny bluefin tuna were not that exciting in the catching department but provided plenty of visual stimulation as areas of jumpers and breaking fish seemed to be everywhere at times. Rather than target the mini bluefin we opted to search for the right stuff and as reported were mercifully rewarded late in the day with a few short stops on 25 - 35# albacore that had a therapeutic effect on everyone on board.

So our annual Steve Kimbrough five day voyage is almost history this year and goes down in the books as a fine fishing trip overall with a good shot at offshore tuna and island yellowtail. There were a couple of slow days to slog through but what matters in the end is the fact that anglers had a great time and ultimately accumulated a fine catch through their hard efforts at the rail. Now Captain Brian Sims takes the helm as our annual Phillips Steel/Wood Group departs today on another five day adventure. Though the fishing success offshore has been inconsistent, the quantity of fish around, and the very good island and coastal fishing to be had speak of fine potential for the trip to come. Look for Capt. Sims' reports to continue as I take a turn on terra firma for the next few days. Also, listen up for my appearance on Let's Talk Hookup on Saturday the 26th with Pete and "Rockcod" Rick and please call in if you have any questions.

Tim