2/1/13

Serene passage, exactly what we were counting on, to compliment the final travel leg with the right frame of mind.
As for activities there were few: the usual chores, completing fish processing orders, building on yesterday's
yarns that are now at the critical 50/50 tipping point of B.S. to reality. Typical fishermen; elaborate details are
the best part, even if a few are slightly embellished or augmented with a little fantasy.

The main thing in this realm is to maintain an active sense of humor about all things. Even the worst of luck, the
most challenging times are brightened by any amount of levity. A little humor goes a long way toward putting things
in proper perspective. While I don't consider this idea to be grand sage wisdom the simplicity of it, and results
when put into practice, suggest that the creation of harmony need not be complicated.

As this voyage had it's share of challenges, and prevailed with an excellent catch of trophy yellowfin despite
Mother Nature and Neptune's constant mischief, it is the perfect time to make this point. Without a doubt success
was achieved on this run through plenty of effort yes. But the veteran and novice anglers alike would not succumb
to the dark forces exerting pressure through tough conditions and/or slow fishing in the beginning. They maintained
spirits, laughed freely at each other and whatever hijinks occurred, and made a good time of the whole occasion.
The atmosphere on board defines success on any given run.

So the annual Braid 15 day comes to an end high in the success category with a fine catch featuring 18 trophy
yellowfin over the deuce and a multitude of others from 150 - 199. A few skinnies spiced up the action but overall
the big tuna took center stage. A beautiful load of perfectly cared for RSW product will compliment these angler's
adventure with a wealth of culinary gifts throughout the year.

Now Capt. Randy Toussaint resumes command departing Sunday on the "Las Rocas" fifteen day run heading again for
points south in search of the glory he is so adept at producing. Final voyage photo features two veterans at the
rail of Royal Star pulling on a pair of bruisers. Bruce Helton and Alfredo "Freddie" Salgado were fixtures the rail
throughout the voyage accumulating many opportunities in the process. Time at the rail equals opportunity. Again
simplicity; the Mantra of long range.

Tim Ekstrom


Photo Here...