We received an update from IATTC scientist Dan Fuller regarding the two re-captures made on Royal Star during the latest Revillagigedo island voyage. Most interesting to me is the fish that was recaptured by angler Chris Lomax at Clarion on April 24, 2010. That fish was 99 cm. at release and 141 cm. at recapture. This is roughly the difference between 50 - 60 and 135 - 145 pounds; in one year! The fish was released at Socorro island in February 2009. The most amazing detail is the fish was recorded at release as a probable mortality due to significant bleeding. There are those times when a fish comes up bleeding or injured and we have no choice other than to tag and send them on their way with best wishes. I recall countless conversations with Danny in which he asserts how many times tuna have been recaptured that he thought were hopeless. As little tagging as I have participated in by comparison, this is the second recapture from a Revilla voyage of a fish that I thought was certain to die and/or be consumed by sharks. This latest recapture is a perfect example of how much we have yet to learn. One thing for sure is that they are a heck of a lot tougher than most of us imagine.

For comparison the second fish recaptured was released at Clarion on April 22, 2009 and recaptured on April 25, 2010. It was 101 cm. at release, and 141 cm. at recapture. The fish at Clarion appeared to have a better time of it as it grew a little faster; must have been superior groceries at the "Big C". Actually, a multitude of factors could account for the difference. It goes back to the having much to learn statement above.

Photos today feature tagging veteran Bruce Posthumous. What can I say other than Bruce is an angler worthy of tremendous respect. He has a unique appreciation for the Revilla fishery dating back at least twenty five years. Bruce understands the idea of giving back implicitly. He practices what he believes in. And, is a great guy to share the rail with. Also, I am sending along a photo of the tag in a yellowfin tuna after one year. It had a little more algae on it before I snapped this shot, but this is a good example of what they look like regardless.

Tim

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