We begin the annual Let's Talk Hookup, post Thanksgiving ten day voyage appropriately grateful for our good fortune. This group of anglers is a perfect example of what to expect when embarking on a Royal Star long range voyage. The core group of individuals greeting one another as old friends, the anglers new to this voyage making introductions and joining the many lively conversations, everyone fired up and pleased beyond words that this day has finally arrived and we are making way towards the famed big fish grounds so productive during the previous three weeks - this is it. Departure day has arrived and we are going fishing.

We are loaded for bear in every respect. With a couple of days at the dock to prepare accordingly we got an early jump departing just after the Saturday morning radio show featuring Pete Grey and "Rock Cod" Rick Maxa. With Rick on board by 0930, we were underway south enjoying a picturesque morning featuring flat calm seas and crystal clear skies. It was a ideal opportunity for this group of veteran anglers to settle in, fiddle with some gear, and most importantly relax and unwind.

Tomorrow the real rigging and preparation will begin. Prospects are as good as ever down below with plenty of sign in several different zones. The big question is whether the devils will be in a biting mood or not. Combined with this round of voyages is an upcoming new moon that we hope will be catalyst for another round of consistent big fish action. Sometimes it makes a difference, sometimes it doesn't. For now we will go with it content to be heading toward the grounds regardless.

Now that I am back at the helm daily reports will commence and continue with consistency. Needless to say we are ready to get back at it and establish another positive trend.

Tim Ekstrom