8/31/12

As if scripted for the occasion, in the eleventh hour, we finally found what we were looking for - a
little luck combined with the effort. One of those bomber, "Sweaty Betty" sized kelps came into our
sights in the exact zone we were hoping to find one. And sure enough it was loaded.

Beginning with school sized yellowfin and a few exotics the "aquarium style" action provided not only
insane fishing but epic visuals to go along with the pandemonium. Hundreds of fish would arise to meet
nearly every bait thrown as anglers had zero time to practice any kind of finesse; it was simply a matter
of throwing the reel in gear and hanging on.

And perhaps the best part of the stop, after the initial rush and the blood lust was satisfied, was when
the bigger models settled in and kept us busy through departure. It was a picture perfect ending that
included two last minute jackpot upsets with yellowfin that exceeded fifty pounds; a classic plunker that
allowed anglers to employ all their techniques with ample time at the rail.

Huge thanks to Mitch Otera and his entire group who have fished with us now for many years. Understanding
that a good time fishing entails more than just catching these anglers are here to make a good time of it
regardless. Fortunately the fish gods again smiled upon us and we return with a fantastic catch featuring
the coveted big three. For quality, quantity, and variety this catch is on par with any this season. For
that we are rightly thankful and now eagerly anticipate the next run.

Final photo of the voyage features long time Royal Star veteran Billy Ito with one of the beautiful,
fifty pound grade yellowfin landed during the final stop of the voyage.

Tim Ekstrom


Photo Here...