As a follow up to yesterday's report regarding our addition of another 1 ? day to stay on the offshore trend of good tuna fishing, I am pleased to report that the impromptu voyage did indeed fill up with twenty four anglers who were rewarded big time according to the conversation I just had with Capt. Randy Toussaint on the grounds. He will post a full report from Royal Star tomorrow but I had to share the good news that they loaded up first thing in the morning with a stop producing over 100 bluefin and yellowfin tuna mixed, and twenty some odd dorado that joined the party as they drifted along. What a result for a last minute trip that came together because anglers looked at all the information and jumped at the opportunity. I can't tell you how pleased we are; and their day is far from over yet.

On a second note now that I am back on the beach I am going to pester readers with the last proud father photo from the prior Guadalupe voyage when my six year old son Duke joined us. During that voyage I posted a short tale of Duke's fishing gear extending appropriate accolades to Bob Ramirez of Ram Rods and Justin Poe and the entire team at Shimano. Today's photo takes it one step further. Duke and I teamed up to subdue this 90# Guadalupe yellowfin using the same outfit. Ninety pounds and this reel, the amazing Shimano Trinidad 14A, didn't even flinch. I know I have beat the incredible attributes of this reel into the ground but I am so taken by its capabilities and features I can't help it. Numerous yellowtail, several yellowfin over 60 pounds, and a handful of 30 - 50# Bluefin subdued by my hand using this reel are more than enough to validate my enthusiasm.

Anyhow in addition to my sentiments for the Trinidad 14A I was so taken by this photo I had to share it with all Royal Star supporters. This image moves me to the point of almost welling up. To have my boy out there with me sharing in these experiences is beyond description; it's a dream come true. Here is Duke with yours truly, a hearty ninety pound Guadalupe yellowfin, and the coveted rig that will follow Duke for many years producing countless memories to come. Thanks again to Bob and Shimano for making it happen.

Tim Ekstrom


Photo Here...