We did some looking today, made a few zigs and zags, saw a handful of small jumpers, a handful of mystery fish on the machines, and caught zero in the process. The main goal was to cover ground however and that we did sliding down all day focusing on rigging and tackle preparation for our arrival at Alijos rocks tomorrow morning. Honestly the fishing results were no surprise as the lower offshore zone went into a funk about ten days back and is obviously still in transition based on reports from a number of us making a sweep to the south and south east today. We really didn't have any hopes staked on today's results so the evening arrived with libations and a festive tone in anticipation of tomorrow's fishing and good things to come. That's how we have it planned anyway. Time will tell.

For now everything we could have in our favor is aligned with this fantastic group of anglers foremost, a primo load of 5 - 6" sardines, good working weather and more to come, and Royal Star in perfect working order. I have to tell all of you that this crew, with Randy and I leading the charge, are more than ready to get down to business humping fish over the rail, dressing them out, and getting them into the primed and ready RSW tanks. It has been quite awhile since we have really been pushed to our peak ability and that of course is what we strive for. Kites going off, anglers hooking up, fish crashing all around, calls for gaffs, and order being maintained at the rail while every fish landed is professionally handled and meticulously tended to - it is a thing of beauty when this crew kicks into high gear making symphony music of such potential chaos. The more strapped we get, the bigger the smiles on our faces as such moments define our ability and status as high lining peak performers in the world of long range fishing. It's a bold claim, I know, but I wouldn't make it if I/we couldn't back it up at any level. Those who have fished with us and seen this crew kick into high gear will back the claim and then some. Under the watchful eye of keenly perceptive anglers this is a bona fide proving ground out here. I couldn't get away with such a claim if it weren't true or we couldn't back it up. Among the many strengths of our operation this aspect alone should motivate anglers to venture a trip and experience the difference in professional ability and service that this crew offers. It is easy enough to go out and sling a bunch of fish on board, slam them onto the deck, bomb them into the hatch, then chuck them back out when the trip is finished. The thing nowadays is that there is, or if not there should be, much more to it than that. There certainly is on Royal Star.

Look for mercy in tomorrow's report as the fishing begins and I don't have so much time at hand to express my pride. From here on out the details will focus on conditions and fishing - with maybe a smattering of confidence thrown in. I hope so anyway.

Tim