Amidst refreshing Spring showers so did we depart; loaded, ready, excited. The swarthy complexion of crewmen, freshly returned from the previous run, assigned palpable evidence that the dream, the fantasy, had become reality. Beckoning from far below are giant yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and mythical visions of distant seas reserved for the very privileged few. These fifteen anglers are soon to be among them. Perfect sardines, and I offer that description very rarely, were the compliment to departure. I have never seen a better load of live bait in my lifetime. Size, vitality, quantity – my goodness! One can not feel anything less than complete confidence packing this load of sardines south. Wow! Whatever occurs in the way of fishing results will not be from a lack of perfect ammunition. And it won't be from a lack of proficient anglers either. A wealth of experience graces the deck below. Names of long range lore – Chartermaster Chris Yamada, Cal Sheets, Dave Hall, Andy Cooperman, Warren Sakamoto, Floyd and Jan Abbott – the list goes on. Suffice it to say that between anglers, crewmen, bait, and drive to succeed production during this run will be solely attributable to the whims of the fish; guaranteed we all will do our part. So builds anticipation as we cruise southward. The end result at this stage of the voyage is always unknown. What we do know is that current weather, sea state, and forecasts are superb, sublime truth be told. Enjoying southerly passage to the fullest while rigging gear and appreciating the best of company daily narratives will continue throughout the voyage. Slated for a Tuesday arrival on the grounds, aside from a quick stop likely along the way, time will pass in leisure until the real games begin.