Taka Tanaka has been chartering the Royal Polaris for so many years he can't count them any more. This year's expedition returned July 30 with Roy Rose at the helm, after a five-day trip with 36 anglers.

"We had really good kelp fishing," said Rose.

"And we had a great group of guys," said chartermaster Taka. "I really enjoyed ???em all."

"Hello everyone," read the boat's report for July 29, "weather continues to be beautiful, with scattered clouds, light seas, and very warm days. One has to wonder, how long will this good weather continue?

"As far as fishing goes, that's another story. We had fair action until the afternoon, then the flood gates opened. Our last stop of the day was on a kelp that produced excellent action on Yellowtail and Dorado. The Yellowtail were good quality, with most of the fish in the 18 to 25-pound category. It was bendo for all aboard.

"As for the Yellowfin tuna action, it was on the slow side, not for the lack of fish, it's just they are feeding on large schools of Anchovies. It's like, why should I chase a large Sardine, when I can just open my month and get all the Anchovies I want?

"The ocean is just full of life. Bait schools, feeding fish, large Dorado under kelps, it's like fishing in an aquarium."

Bill Matthews of Idyllwild won first place for a 39.7-pound albacore. Robert Takeshita of Laguna Niguel was right behind him with a 38.1-pounder, and Corky Yokoe of La Mirada won third place for a 34-pound albie. Keith Desroche of Buena Park tied Corky with a 34-pound yellowtail.