Plenty of opportunity and potential. Several vast schools of bluefin, a few racing spots of yellowfin, up and down spots of 30-60 pound tuna ravaging small anchovies mid day through mid afternoon, and the result was none. I could exhaust readers with a tale told countless times during the past three weeks but today I'll spare you the story. It has run its course. The southern zone, for whatever reason, hosts a bounty of fish stubbornly set on the natural forage in their midst, and none other. The only solace I draw stems from the certitude that conditions will ultimately subside and these bastards will change their tune. 
Not that such knowledge improves the current predicament. We took more lumps today; not the note we hoped to end on. Such is fishing. This seasoned group of long range and fishing veterans well knows the score. A twenty two year record boasting the most incredible voyages that produced magnificent catches is sure to be tempered from time to time. 
In the end we are mighty thankful for the beautiful catch of quality yellowtail and variety in the RSW tanks. Less those, whew! I shudder to think. 
Tomorrow's three day adventure features new blood at the helm; a changing of the guard. Our new partner Alex Natipadab, no stranger to running trips local and long range, is piloting his first voyage as Co-Owner/Captain of our beloved Royal Star. Alex heads out with our annual three day Island Tackle charter ready to administer some justice to those bluefin in the northwestern zone. 
In closing, huge thanks and gratitude to the "Barking Spider" group who showed veteran grit, determination, and wit throughout this run. Enjoy todays final image. Let's Go!