After a quick, successful turn around we again descend the Baja coast loaded with anticipation and ideas of where and when those first good offshore hits will occur. Being the transition time of year it is anyone's guess - we've seen it happen as early as the middle of May and as late as the third week of June, but now is time when good things on the offshore grounds traditionally happen. Typically the combination of good weather and a solid effort from all of us working together is the recipe for success; a one man band this definitely is not. So we head for the nether regions in search mode looking forward to at least one day of fine working conditions that a number of us hope not to squander.

As far as this voyage is concerned I have to mention the fantastic support from sponsor Baja Fish Gear that most of you know we hold in the highest esteem. Ed and his guys are at the top of their game in the sport fishing realm; it reflects in every aspect of their support and presence on board Royal Star. We are looking forward to a great trip that began yesterday afternoon with a fantastic round of raffles and complimentary equipment provided by Baja Fish Gear for everyone on board; this we hope to put to good use as well.

Southbound and prepared by day's end we all enjoyed a serene evening passage bathed in crisp pastels as the sun's mid day ferocity waned into becoming gentle allure. In an ocean brimming with life - miles of dolphins breaking the threshold of the surface from below while acres of birds reversed the action from above, tons of bait fish flipping and finning, and perfect water conditions calling to teams of game fish somewhere, we closed out the day content yet anxious; until we can sink our teeth into them it is always this way; it is the signature of this time of year.

Captain Toussaint and I join forces this voyage backed up by Captain Gregg Tanji, Chief Engineer Sean Bickel, and crewman Steve Gregonis. And I would be remiss to not mention the dynamic duo of the finest culinary team ever to grace the galley of a long range sport fisher Chef's Drew Rivera and Jeffery Grant. It is a wining combination that has accounted for a tremendous quantity of good times over the past six years. Between our present assembly of consummate professionals and their highly respected predecessors our foundation of success is well known. A solid, experienced team makes it happen; throw in some good fishing and one really has something. We hope to do exactly that during this voyage and far into the foreseeable future. Look for reports and photos to continue.

Tim Ekstrom