And the schedule continues as we depart today on our annual Ty's Tuna five day charter with Charter Master Ty Breitman again assembling a fantastic group of veteran anglers, most of whom have ventured previous Royal Star voyages. As I assisted arriving anglers loading their equipment I was taken aback by some faces I have not had the pleasure to fish with for quite a few years. I am incredibly grateful for the loyalty and support. By far the finest compliment to our business is the fact that anglers choose to fish Royal Star again and again.

There are many reasons, that I regularly expound upon in my overwhelming confidence, pride, and respect for our crewman and their incredible efforts, but I believe the most compelling reason anglers choose Royal Star is more than our consistent good business and service - we are genuine, salt of the earth, hard working people that just about any and every individual can relate to. That goes for Randy, Tracy, Brian, and I and follows right down through our entire crew. When anglers fish with us, whether venturing their first long range adventure or their fiftieth, they are welcomed as friends and accommodated with honest courtesy and sincere, professional respect. We have a very simple approach featuring unwavering standards that focus on making anglers feel welcome while receiving a superb fishing vacation among like minded individuals. If I have heard it once I have heard it a thousand times, including today. A loyal Royal Star angler steps onboard and says something to the effect of "it feels like I am coming back home" or " it's good to be back home". When I hear such statements I beam with gratitude and pride. Yes we have an incredible catch record. Yes we have innovated the long range sport fishing business to the huge benefit of every angler who fishes out of San Diego. Yes we produce an incredible product for our anglers through the supreme efforts of our veteran crew. But, all that is secondary to the bonds we form with anglers who choose to fish with us on Royal Star. One can have the most fantastic service in the world that amounts to nothing more than nuts and bolts without personality and character to support it. That is the real strength of Royal Star. Beginning with Tracy continuing right down to every young man on deck character and personality, along with an impeccable work ethic, are the foundation of our operation. You are welcome, welcomed, and appreciated as customers and individuals here.

Before moving on to this voyage I have to make quick mention of the epic load of fish Capt. Brian Sims and the boys returned with today. For the annual Mitch Otera group a better catch could not be contrived as the mixed bag of Guadalupe yellowfin and offshore albacore and bluefin complimented the effort. No doubt there will be plenty of product shared and enjoyed to the delight of anglers and friends over the next few days, weeks, and months. Job well done.

Now it is time for the next round however and this voyage features Capt. Randy Toussaint, Capt. Brian Sims, and I on board combining our efforts with the crew to make a catch for Ty's phenomenal group. Prospects are good in many different zones with the offshore area drawing our attention to begin the adventure. With a fantastic load of bait and eager group of anglers we are ready to get started hoping that tomorrow is our day on the grounds before considering options beyond. Look for reports to continue and if you are departing in the next few days things are looking very good. Get ready and good luck.

Tim Ekstrom