It was a worthy excursion to the southeast supplemented by various kelps holding scattered wahoo and dorado. Attraction to our final destination was near magnetic however as reports of big fish sign and cows coming over the rail turned minutes into hours on the bridge. That draw of giant yellowfin tuna is impossible to trade for anything else. It is almost an obsession; as so many anglers can attest to. Once most fishermen get a taste, once they see a big cow come over the rail, their fishing days are never quite the same. The sheer proportions and magnificence of these bruisers can not be grasped until seen. They are awe inspiring in every respect.

So we ground out the miles arriving on the grounds by late afternoon. Almost immediately we swung into action with a long stop that began the Royal Star big fish fall season with a resounding thud. The thud being a 270, 230, 209, and 160 hitting the deck. For our first stop in this zone needless to say we started with the correct foot forward. Now the true test will be how we hold up tomorrow and beyond.

On a different note I have to mention that when it comes to fishing down here I am going to forward what I consider an obvious notion that is regularly glossed over in what I consider over reaching promotional zeal - not that I haven't been guilty of similar offense in the past. Perhaps in my advancing years I am finally catching up. Everyone operating these long range vessels are very good, experienced, professional fishermen. If there are fish around to be caught, they will find and catch them. The first, the biggest, the last, and sometimes even the most, are functions of timing, scheduling, and then experience, ability, and luck; the last three being interchangeable according to fate. As I mentioned all of us driving these rigs possess these attributes.

What I consider the paramount identifying criteria of excellence is consistent professionalism. This is demonstrated best in the performance of a vessel's crew. From how the vessel is rigged and maintained, to exceptional customer service in the form of knowledgeable, attentive dedication to the success of every individual angler's voyage, how a crew performs together is a vessel's trademark. This is what drives consistent success in the form of fishing results, and exceeding customer's expectations. When every aspect of a voyage is attended to by a professional crew working in harmony the balance, and results, are unmistakable. That is why angler's return to their vessels of choice, or continue seeking that exceptional experience they expect and deserve for their investment. Consistent results are not by chance, sometimes fish stories are.

I would ask every prospective long range angler to take the time to research their vessel of choice through professional tackle venues such as Baja Fish Gear, Fisherman's Landing Tackle, Eric's Tackle in Ventura, and many others in the southland to numerous to list here. The guys that talk the talk, and walk the walk are your best resources. And, even better is to invest the time to engage in conversation in person. One can glean a wealth of information and gauge sincerity much better when looking someone in the eye. Also you never know, you may just find a perfect opportunity to purchase equipment for the voyage you are planning.

Back to fishing we are staying put enjoying more of the glorious, flat calm weather that is paramount to success in this zone. We will see if the case is such tomorrow. The stage is set and the boys are ready. Here we go.

Photo today features Royal Star veteran Sammy Pazzula who claimed big fish honors today with his fat 270. Capt. Brian Sims lends a steadying hand as Sammy revels in the moment. As of now, three hours later, he is still reveling. His bragging rights were earned the hard way. Congratulations!

Photo Here...