A flat calm passage north is a lavish brand of fortune that elicits the best in character. No challenge, no struggle, no tolerance of the element's derision allows anglers to focus on the all the fine points, all the favor, and all the reasons why to continue the long range experience next year and beyond. To be certain, when anglers do repeat a ten day voyage in this time frame or any other, it will be different. The contrast in results from year to year is nothing short of astonishing.

Just take into account the difference between this voyage and the prior year's results. Last year a monumental catch of 60 - 120 pound yellowfin tuna from Alijos Rocks was the foundation supplemented by wahoo, dorado, and the usual cadre of ridge variety. This year featured the full ridge bounty but almost no consequential yellowfin tuna; certainly no significant quantity of yellowfin tuna; not even enough to spread among the group on board.

But, last year, and every other of the twenty four years I have fished the ridge in Autumn, I have never seen a significant catch of Bluefin tuna made in these waters. Where did they come from? Why are they here in force this season? Will we ever see this phenomena again? The only answer I can provide to the last question is not if you don't venture a trip. Simple as that answer is it is the truth.

One thing everyone can count on is that one year to the next will be as different, and new, as you can imagine. The dynamics of this ocean are rife with mystery and pregnant with surprise. Such is the beauty and attraction of offshore fishing. The unlimited potential is demonstrated in one way or another every day one sallies forth.

In closing for this voyage my first thought calls attention to the fine catch all will enjoy upon return including a wealth of premium dorado, yellowtail, and bluefin tuna, as well as a sprinkling of wahoo and larger class yellowfin tuna. All unloaded in exceptional, fresh condition from Chief Sean Bickel's tireless attention to the "RSW" refrigeration system, these fantastic quality specimens will grace many a dinner table in upcoming months as an extension of our angler's efforts at the rail and our pride.

Finally I want to extend my most sincere gratitude to Shimano, and my earned respect for their unrivaled line of new products. As an example of professionalism and dedication to the long range fishery any of the Shimano voyages on Royal Star are a cut so far beyond anything I have experienced I continue to be blown away. If any of you are considering a 2012 long range voyage and would appreciate the benefit of test driving all of Shimano's distinct, premium quality line of tackle check out our on line schedule listing Shimano sponsored voyages, or our soon to come printed brochure. Also all of our thanks to Shimano Master Robbie Gant for his immense efforts to keep every piece of Shimano equipment rigged and ready for use throughout the voyage. As a representative of Shimano, and an individual to share the rail with, we could not be in better company.

Now it is time for Captain Brian "Gerbie" Sims to take command departing tomorrow following a quick, efficient turn of Royal Star. Pitch off the catch, clean her up, splash a little of that sickeningly cheap fuel, grab some bait, and the boys will be on their way ready to again charge the southern waters in search of another fine catch. Perhaps this will be the first voyage to find those elusive, big offshore yellowfin, perhaps not; either way they will have a good time. With Captain Sims's expertise and glib personality backed by the finest crew in the long range fleet by a wide margin the setting is ripe for reward. Godspeed boys, and good luck for all.


Tim Ekstrom