A sole offshore yellowfin spared us the malodorous shame of a final day skunk. It was a small consolation that if nothing else supplied a humorous tidbit to an obviously lack luster fishing conclusion. But in all honesty it had no real effect on morale. The weather was up, our catch was already in the hatch, and the unanimous sentiment was in favor of getting the hell out while the getting was still relatively good. So we did.

Leaving little more than a fishless morning behind we flew the coop mid morning straight lining for a sweet island refuge. When the fishing falls short we rely heavily on our closers to end the voyage on a strong, memorable note. In the flat calm of a lake like anchorage I must say that the dream team of Chef's Drew Rivera and Jeffery Grant buttressed our best efforts with a signature showing. Prime rib is just prime rib - until one has enjoyed it prepared by either Jeff or Drew. Combined with a variety selection of fine California reds, and the instant gratification of a slightly rolly ride becoming grease calm, the closing atmosphere was relaxed and festive as anglers reveled in the moment, and memories past. In light of the circumstances I could not have crafted a more gratifying final evening.

With a catch perhaps slightly lacking in the variety category we still nailed the best of what was available during this round. Between the caliber and quantity of coastal yellowtail action, a few handfuls of offshore tuna, beautiful weather supplied by Mother Earth and the island lee's, and the topper of a real shot at trophy, Guadalupe yellowfin tuna our satisfaction with the results is well earned. For a six day voyage at this time of year we head in as winners in every respect.

Photo of the day features long time Royal Star veteran Gary Bobay in action a few days back. On a closing note our gratitude to charter master Larry Brown who holds the title of the most attentive, colorful group leader/coordinator we share our schedule with. It is a sincere pleasure to fish with an individual as passionate about fishing, and our fishery, as Larry is. Obviously near and dear to his heart Larry's efforts to advance the long range opportunity to anglers novice and veteran are sincere, and do not go un-noticed.

We will be tying up Royal Star through next Wednesday to pay attention to a few mechanical and cosmetic odds and ends before commencing our full fall schedule of ten through twelve day voyages. While tending to the apple of our eye I will continue to send at least a few daily updates and definitely a handful of photos from voyages past. Enjoy the upcoming weekend and look for more dialogue to come.

Tim Ekstrom

Photo Here...