12/14/12

A strong finish to the fishing portion of this run beginning with a classic morning hit on the big baits
followed again by steady picking throughout the day on 70 - 120's along with more than a few "skin". We broke
up the action mid morning trying a few old haunts in search of a solitary giant but all we managed to find was
even more school size fish.

The present quantity of life around this zone is staggering. What we have seen over the past few days is
encouraging on so many levels. Between the many different size classes of fish around and the incredible
distribution of fish from close around the boat to as far outside as the "big" eyes can see one can only
project that there are many more successful voyages to come.

Of course I always have to submit the standard disclaimer about conditions potentially changing overnight and
the unpredictable nature of the ocean consistently throwing wrenches in the works; that is just fishing. But I
have seen enough over the years to offer optimistic evaluations when appropriate. Now is one of those times.
It is what we like to see, and how we like to see it. Unlimited potential, both for big fish and "stock"
graders (70 - 120's). Throw in the nice mix of Wahoo and there you have it: the makings of the ideal winter 12
- 17 day run.

Photos for the day feature Garry "Big Fish" Sato who does it again with the big fish of the day. At 210# this
fish was a walk in the park for Garry's veteran set of skills. But he relished the battle and conquest as he
will relish the finished product in a few days fresh from the RSW tanks. A true connoisseur of culinary
variations Garry is keenly aware of the rarity of such premium quality yellowfin tuna beyond the world of
Royal Star. It is a recurring theme that so many Royal Star anglers recognize and enjoy.

Photo number two features another Royal Star veteran Miguel Borromeo with yours truly and a jumbo, 62 pound
"skinny" he landed as one of his six on straight fluorocarbon, no wire, while targeting yellowfin tuna this
voyage! I'm not certain but that may be some sort of record. If not it's certainly an achievement worthy of
recognition. A combination of circle hooks I suppose and a hot hand did the trick for Miguel who humbly
accepted my repeated congratulations about the achievement with similar remarks about "just trying for a
tuna". He landed plenty of those as well to compliment his Wahoo fillets with ample, premium fresh tuna loins
in perfect time for the holiday's.

I should also mention that this voyage's daily reports are accredited to Miguel who worked me through a
baffling issue with our new computer set up on day one. Were it not for his computer expertise I would have
been "beached" again on this run. My gratitude is extended accordingly.

Tim Ekstrom


Photo Here...


Photo Here...