Another smooth turn and we are back out underway for points south. The weather is up for at least a couple more days, promising to hamper the offshore effort, but that will not stop us from looking while traveling toward our first destination. In a perfect world we will run across something new. If not we will be enjoying the calm lee side of Guadalupe by noon beginning this voyage at the outside island seeking our share of the action over the next few days. Simply put, we are shelving the offshore effort until we are forced to move by marginal fishing results or motivated by good weather. Needless to say we are hoping the former will not be the case.

Reports indicate a good showing at the island again today with catching and scores very similar to what we experienced during our last voyage. If such is the case, and we manage to scratch our share, we will be in fine shape. We have our work cut out for us though. As I have remarked about on so many occasions, Guadalupe does not give up her bounty easily. It all sounds goods until you are driving around or sitting on the anchor with a severe case of what we fondly refer to as "red ass" catching nothing or a paltry amount. A little of that goes a long way towards affecting morale.

Such occasions are minimized and/or often reversed however by experience, local knowledge, and good information from the guys we work with so closely. A good picture developed from recent and past history in combination with good instincts is the key to consistent success at Guadalupe - especially with the level of competition the Captains of long range vessels bring. It is like I said before, if one is not on their game out here, or does not possess the savvy or experience to compete, the results will reveal any and all deficiencies. It is a fact demonstrated time and again since long before I began working with Eddie McEwen on the Pacific Queen in 1984.

As a complete side note, you want to talk about savvy and instinct - Eddie McEwen was a genuine legend in both categories. What a fisherman. As a young man, I spent over three years working and fishing under the essence of "old school" morals, work ethic, and fishing drive. My desire to measure up and earn the respect of this superb fisherman was immeasurable. To this day my perspective and motivation is profoundly influenced by the knowledge I gained while working with Ed. I consider myself among a very fortunate few as such.

Getting back to the present, we will see if I can "measure up" on this voyage that again promises fierce competition and focused determination if we expect to earn our share. We are ready. Anglers are prepared and everything is in order for what we hope will be good fishing to come. Reports will continue.

Tim Ekstrom