Traveling northward in sloppy conditions that improved as the day wore on hours were whittled away in reflective contemplation and conversation. Voyages such as this are filled with so many memories, so many experiences that impact our senses, that oftentimes it takes days, weeks, even longer to recognize them all. Travel time rehashing the days of fishing with friends serves an important function in this respect. As the stories are shared and experiences relived memories of them become more poignant. Something very special that may have been glossed over in the heat of battle is recognized as such in reflection and appreciated in a whole new light. This is true on so many levels. Among the special experiences is certainly the time at sea we spend with like minded individuals from all walks of life. As voyages evolve over the seasons many groups form tangible bonds that are as strong as the passion they have for the fishing itself. Individuals look forward to spending the time at sea together plying the waters in search of the dream haul. Groups grow together while time marches on. And that time ultimately outpaces some of our favorite anglers who must yield to the inevitable challenges of spending weeks upon the open ocean. Not that there is any less passion in their hearts, or any less desire to strike forth and prove their mettle, there is simply too much effort in the endeavor and that ultimately outweighs the reward. Gerry Kruse, also known as “The Legend”, I think for more years than I have been alive, is hanging up his spurs on cow wrangling. At 84 years young, with thirty some odd long trips under his belt and a slew of jumbos to show for it, he does so in full confidence that he had a hell of a run. Between his bionic knees, back, etc, a full career as a LA city firefighter, and an incredibly active life “The Legend” will now limit himself to shorter voyages where the quarry is a little more forgiving. Having personally fished with Gerry since I was sixteen years old and working for Captain Ed McEwen on the Pacific Queen I appreciate him as very few can. Beneath a granite veneer somewhat imposing to one who doesn’t know him is a man of strength and old school values that makes anywhere he is present better. His sense of humor was always on stand by ready to appreciate the details of our travails big and small. I know for certain that many a tale will be told in coming years with “The Legend” in the lead role. I can also state my pure gratitude for the time at sea and experiences that we shared, and my ultimate respect for a man’s man that defined the term “Fisherman”. Mind you I’m not writing an obituary here, “The Legend” lives and fishes on, but it is an end of an era to be sure; a significant changing of the guard. “The Legend” himself is rightly featured in today’s photo sharing the moment as one of his final tours around Clarion island unfolds. Thank you for the time down below Gerry. You bow out of the grand arena in grace and style, a winner by any and every measure. If the tuna could talk I’m sure they’d agree.