An abrupt end to our forward fishing momentum as the whole offshore picture nose dived despite unbelievably gorgeous conditions. Zero wind with a gentle rolling swell complimented by a prominent waxing moon set a stage for some real clobbering as the bluefin made a strong showing the previous day. By all rights the set up appeared that all one had to do was be there today; the fish would come.

True to their nature however they had alternative plans. Whether they were down or gone is a question we'll never really answer but my suspicion is that it was nothing more than a day when their feeding focus was somewhere far below our reach. And while any speculation is little consolation to the many who ventured a shorter voyage on the weekend such is the obvious nature of fishing. The cup half full perspective simply latches on to the most positive alternative. In today's case the heavenly weather took up a lot of fishing slack.

In our case I have to admit that with our catch already made the lack of production did little to disrupt our sentiment. Without ignoring the pain of my struggling colleagues, I was satisfied with the ending note from a weather perspective alone; though at least a few bigger bluefin would have catapulted this voyage into a rare realm of success. It wasn't meant to be. And, considering the roll we established this voyage, if it didn't happen for us today, the message was painfully clear.

So we head in triumphant and satisfied ready to turn and burn again departing on the Jason Hammond six day voyage tomorrow. Capt. Toussaint resumes command looking forward to the next run and a fine set up for fishing success. Between the fishing potential, and a group of fishermen dedicated to the pursuit of having fun, the recipie for success is a rich as possible.

Today's photos will come later in the day at full resolution from the home front as I have a few good ones to share. Look for reports to continue tomorrow and beyond.

Tim Ekstrom