We were bestowed the final gift of surprise calm conditions contrary to forecasted 15 - 20 knots of northwest breeze and 4 - 6 foot seas. Though nothing in the sea state to consider other than the loss of ease and comfort in such conditions, the unwelcome coming change was not anticipated as a positive in any form. As I mentioned earlier travel in calm seas is relaxing and enjoyable. Travel in sloppy conditions is far less thrilling. Drudgery is how I would classify it.

We missed out on all the fun however as the forecasted change was downgraded and the seas remained calm. In all my memory I can't recall a more pleasant ride north. Three days of near flat calm with only today offering the first significant motion. A mix of northwest wind and groundswell added a few easy rolls to the ride that otherwise was blissful in relative terms.

With delightful conditions to regale the entire passage north we avoided any scheduling conflict easily satisfying our ETA of 0730 on January 20th. Captain Toussaint takes the helm on the next round as the annual "Dennis Braid" fifteen day voyage departs on the 21st bound for points south and beyond. As always Dennis assembles a stellar group of individuals that will undoubtedly make the most of whatever opportunities are to come. Rest assured that with Capt. Toussaint behind the helm opportunity will be found. There is no more skilled fishermen than Randy; simple as that.

For the northern angling contingent I want to mention that on Thursday the 20th Capt. Brian "Gerbie" Sims will attend the Sacramento show followed by yours truly on the 21st and 22nd. We look forward to the opportunity to meet and speak with any and all visiting the show. At the beginning of the voyage I mentioned that we have limited availability on select summer and fall voyages; now is the perfect time to make reservations if you are planning a Royal Star adventure. Either see us at the show or give Tracy a call in the office. In the meantime look for Capt. Toussaint's occasional scant reports as the next voyage progresses. He is a man of few words, but boy does he catch fish.

Final voyage photos feature long range veteran Harry Trumbauer pulling on a good one in the corner, and Len Cunningham and I with his 305 sharing in the conquest.


Tim Ekstrom

Photo Here...
Photo Here...