And with the departure of the annual Ty's Tuna five day I resume my position at the helm. Before I speak of fishing however I must indulge in the opportunity to promote Captain Brian Sims' latest effort, and the depth his skill and experience brings to our operation. And when I say "our" I mean Randy, Brian, and I as owners of this grand endeavor.

When it comes to Brian I think the words of an angler I spoke with while manning the office a few days back described it best. The angler was scheduled on an upcoming voyage and inquired as to who would be running the boat. I responded that I had the pleasure and was greeted with a response I never imagined. "Damn, I was hoping to fish with Brian" was the exact quote. I had a heartfelt laugh explaining to the angler that Brian would be on board as chief engineer regardless. Then there was a awkward minute or so as the slightly distressed angler stammered through an explanation about being pleased to fish with me, but, he was looking forward to fishing with Brian again following several trips he made with him as Captain of the 105 a few years back. I didn't take the comment as an affront to my ego in the slightest. I beamed with satisfaction. It was recognition of the fact that no matter who runs Royal Star, Captain Randy Toussaint. Captain Brian Sims, or I, anglers are heading out with an experienced professional. We all have a unique identity, but the net results for anglers venturing a Royal Star voyage are the same regardless of who pilots the vessel. It is a component of our operation that provides anglers with tremendous confidence in our ability to consistently deliver. There is no "B" team. That goes for the Captain's, all of whom have a vested interest as owners in the business, and crewmembers alike.

So Brian returned from the latest successful six day with a beautiful load of yellowfin tuna from below and premium grade yellowtail from above. What a perfect catch that was unloaded in perfect condition. Every expertly cared for tuna showed the obvious signs of being spiked, bled, dressed, and placed in the thirty degree RSW. Every premium yellowtail appeared as if it were still alive their natural color maintained by efficient handling and rapid chilling after being landed. That the boys performed their job well was easy to determine - both in the appearance of the catch, and the demeanor of the departing anglers who were all compliments and smiles. There is no better feeling for me. To see such successful results always reinforces the quality of our operation in my mind.

This voyage begins with an offshore jaunt day one seeking whatever we may find in transit. Reports of the offshore grounds beginning to wake up are on the wire with signs of tuna appearing in several different zones. Mixed bag in the size department with the majority being keepers is the information in hand. As dead as things have been in general this is fantastic news. Rest assured we will position ourselves accordingly as the voyage progresses. For now we are underway well prepared to make the most of what we encounter. Look for the daily narrative to continue. Have a great weekend!

Tim Ekstrom