I still believe they are here. Not that we have any kind of robust quantity to show for our efforts, but we had a sign, and plenty of additional indications that both the big albacore and better sized yellowfin tuna continue their lurking in this area. Time of day, time of the month, phase of the moon, or otherwise, the list of excuses is vast; and any, or all, are likely to be accurate. At the very least we are grateful to have had one legitimate shot where we hooked a few on the jigs and bait landing five of the big albies to the delight of everyone today. Perhaps even more delightful was the grease calm weather offshore that made for a splendid ride, and breathtakingly beautiful conditions throughout the day. We are very pleased.

My final word on these albacore to the west is as follows: don't be surprised to see a resurgence of fish in this zone even as late as November if anyone has the wherewithal to venture out looking. It has been quite some time but many of you likely remember 1982, 1983, and 1986 or 87, I can't exactly recall, when albacore up to sixty and seventy pounds went off in this zone all the way up until after Thanksgiving. It has been a long time since we have seen this pattern but the water temps are now obviously above normal and showing no signs of rapid, significant cooling. It was this type of condition that preceded at least a couple of those years when the albies hung around through November and the giant albacore showed late. Of course one can never tell, and I wouldn't hang my hat on it, but I am fired up by the idea. Believe me if these fish show again, and especially if the giant albacore make an appearance, I will be out here to fish for them one way or another. That is an occasion too good to pass up.

In closing for this voyage I have to say that I have never seen, or been part of, a better seven day voyage that accomplished the ultimate goals we strive for, and achieve to this degree, perhaps only a handful of times per season. This is one for the books. Epic quality, epic variety, and more than sufficient quantity to satisfy every expectation and then some. In particular the quality, beginning with fantastic grade of dorado found on kelps, followed by premium Cedros yellowtail, then capped by outstanding action on 80 - 124# yellowfin tuna, stood out and identified this voyage in a select category reserved for only an extremely fortunate few. Needless to say this time it was our turn. It wasn't pure luck. Everything occurred by design. But, the luck factor is undeniable in the success of such voyages where everything you seek falls into place. As such we are appropriately grateful as we know it just as easily can unfold in the other direction. Additionally, we are equally grateful to this fantastic group of anglers headed up by charter masters Larry Brown and owner of Baja Fish Gear Ed Tschernoscha. The combination of Larry and Ed as charter masters could not be better as Larry's energetic, spirited attentions are tempered by Ed's mellow demeanor. My sincere gratitude to both as well as the fantastic group of anglers participating in this premier seven day adventure. As always it is our tremendous pleasure to extend the complete Royal Star experience to one and all. Thank you and we look forward to next year and beyond.

Today's photo features two angles of Royal Star angler Gary Hart's 40# class albacore with veteran crewman Steve Gregonis doing the gaffing honors justice with a clean, perfect head shot. Nice going Gary on the final albacore of the summer season landed on Royal Star.

Tim Ekstrom

Photo Here...
Photo Here...