07/05/13

An appropriate description of this fishing day is a tall order. To capture every aspect, to frame in complete
context, would take longer than most readers will allow me their attention. A day to remember to be sure; one that
contrasts this spectacular fishery in irrefutable proportion.

Today's fishing was a walk down memory lane taking us back to the mid nineties when offshore fishing for 50 - 70#
bluefin surpassed our wildest dreams. With those experiences still fresh in our memory, despite an elapsed span of
almost twenty years, I can't say this was something we have never seen. But it has been so long, so long since this
grade of fish has been available, so long since it has been wanton and willing; this is the manifestation of many a
fantasy, yet it is real.

Ninety four of the beauties found their way into the ice cold RSW tanks pithed, bled, and dressed to perfection. To
mention the superb quality of the product would be redundant. But I have to, again; especially in contrast to the
mid-nineties aforementioned. That is biggest difference between then and now. Knowing what rests in the tanks and
how it compares to the quality and availability of fresh, wild caught bluefin tuna in today's world compels
recognition. Knowing how it compares to the "good old days" of tragically brine frozen bluefin pre 2003 is even
better.

The fishing is the real story though. A full day offshore in the most beautiful, grease calm, balmy weather one can
imagine while drifting along scratching steady at beautiful grade bluefin would be surreal if it weren't long range
fishing. This day was magic to be sure, but the conditions and opportunity were certainly not unheard of in the
context of this fishery. This is why anglers return year after year. The potential reward, the potential of being
here on one of these days feeds the beast.

And when the day arrives and you are among the fortunate few at the rail drinking in the joy, the exuberance, the
inexpressible satisfaction of living the dream the world stops. One returns to a simplicity almost gone in today's
ultra modern, ultra complicated whirlwind of distractions. Count these anglers among the fortunate today. This was
good livin'; precisely what we live for, as fishermen.

Photos today speak to the quality of these incredible fish. Long time Royal Star veteran Ron Hobson is ecstatic
with crewman Blake Wasano as his first of a full limit of 50 - 70# class bluefin comes over the rail. Photo number
two features master angler Jeff Cox and one of his limit with Captain Drew Rivera tending the gaff.

Tim Ekstrom



Photo Here...

Photo Here...