After what we experienced yesterday, I have a hard time, other than ridiculous fantasizing, scripting a better scenario, and a more fitting end to a voyage that began on such a dubious note. Not that it is over yet; we still have our final morning to shake out, but with yesterday's results in the hatch, we could depart right now and practically float home on our euphoric spirits. Twenty eight yellowfin was the total yesterday with twelve coming in over the two hundred mark, six of which were 260 to 289, and one that weighed in at a whopping three hundred twenty four pounds! Of the remaining "smaller" two hundred pounders, all were two thirty to two hundred fifty six pounds.

Don't ask me why or how, but I can say that the weather, that has been giving us grief throughout the voyage, finally laid down and was almost flat calm. Also, water conditions changed markedly with different current and fathometer life likely motivating a new feeding pattern. Whatever the reason, we were well prepared and ready to take advantage of the golden opportunity presented. Special mention goes to every angler on board as it was no picnic dealing with ferocious sharks throughout the day. The incorrigble brown miscreants wreaked havoc almost every time we stopped the boat, stealing baits, tearing up equipment, and eating a number of the smaller fish, but amazingly opted to only chase ninety five percent of the giant yellowfin we hooked without taking a nip.

It was such a spectacular day and every angler did so well that I can't really single anyone out, but I have to say that long time "sharkmaster" Allen Hartman finally had the well deserved fishing day of his life with a 289, 263, and a two hundred thirty four pounder at day's end. Needless to say his taking of fish is over for the trip as he landed an entire voyage's dream catch yesterday in only four or five hours. Big congratulations to Allen who has earned great respect in the world of long range angling. Finally, extra special mention goes to Jerry Nguyen who gets the honors for the jumbo three twenty four landed from a mid day drift. Nursing a sore rib from a wipeout earlier in the trip, Jerry enlisted the help of his brother Brian Nguyen of Shimano America to tag team his big fish in. The strategy was a glowing success and proved to be a incredibly special experience for two brothers who are already thicker than thieves. Like I said it is almost an injustice to single anyone out as every angler did a fantastic job yesterday. All these anlgers had their equipment prepared, and earned propers as such.

So with yesterday's success, the original plan to depart with time for a day at Alijos rocks to break up the ride was scrapped. With only a few hours in the morning before must take off for home, we are looking for our remarkable good fortune to extend just a little bit more. Even if it doesn't however, you won't find us complaining. Look for tomorrow's report with the final details.