This boom or bust offshore scene of late has all the thrill of hunt, all the excitement that comes with the certainty of a big hit waiting to be found, and all the pain of recogition when it does not come. And for us it most certainly hasn't these past few days that we have spent venturing forth – an aggravating reminder of our vulnerability as fishermen. There are those times when no matter how perfect one is positioned, no matter how effective a plan is employed, failure is the result. In today's case we arrived in the promised land, an ocean of abundance only yesterday, to find tumble weeds and scraps; the ocean shifted and they were gone. Viva El Nino!

A little fish in a lot of places is how I would describe the present set up. There are no deserts presently out here. It's the fleeting concentrations that require plenty of skill, and an at least equal portion of good fortune, to land upon. Taking the hint by early afternoon, and feeling no love, a strategic deviation was in order. The thrill of the hunt was long gone. A scenic respite replete with variety fish, astounding beauty, and flat calm transformed an otherwise dull and uncomfortable afternoon of drudgery into tranquil paradise. Not so much from a fishing perspective, again the big volume was nowhere to be found, but the dramatic addition of scenery, and the opportunity to put some lines over the side from a stationary boat, made more of little than can be imagined.

That accomplished we head back offshore for the final round longing for revenge. We've a lot of ground to cover and plenty of time. Though the weather has kicked up a notch conditions promise to be plenty workable. And that is exactly what we intend to do. Time to double down – my go to philosophy and favorite saying in tough times. Today's image features long time Royal Star veteran and friend Barb Kelber with a huge victory achieved late in the day. This 38# grumpy yellowtail was pulled through the gauntlet making a memory to recall for many years to come.