8/26/13

Just when one imagines that the top of the world has been reached yet another level is revealed. As for how high it actually
goes, or where or what the ultimate measure is I gather is entirely subjective, which is the best part. Ever expanding from
my perspective, like the big bang on a much smaller scale. Just when one thinks that it can't get any better it almost
inevitably does.

In the present microsm Royal Star those arising from the euphoria of yesterday afternoon's seven hour bluefin bludgeoning
were confronted with an extension of conditions - rain still driving, thankfully reasonable seas, and bluefin still eager to
bite. Only this morning a school of larger models, 60 - 85#'s with a few bonus jumbos dominated the action. From day light
through mid afternoon anglers pulled for all they were worth enjoying the classic "plunker" cycles of one to three hanging
with consistent better intervals. Every fish that came over the rail was worthy of pause and appreciation; beautiful examples
of long range potential.

Ultimately production was tied to two things - will and horsepower. Those who elected to ignore the elements, and pushed
through the fatigued and abused forearms and legs from yesterday, indulged in the proverbial world's oyster to their ultimate
delight. It was the opportunity long range anglers dream of, by far the best I have seen all year.

Itchy feet and my unending drive to seek the next bigger and better opportunity that I know is there rousted us from our
little utopia in the late afternoon. By that point production had slowed to a near stand still and I was eager to know more.
In the end I can't say whether I do or don't - pretty typical when it comes to bluefin, and the ocean in general.

But this I do know - there are lots of bluefin tunas out here to be had. And lots more that will be had in the days and weeks
to come. This was a big day again; for us and every single friend and colleague fortunate enough to make it to this zone.
Everyone loaded up. These are the best, most gratifying days on the offshore grounds - the days when everybody wins. The
different size classes, the spread of fish, and the area we are fishing all suggest that there is plenty more in store. I
hope those of you hanging on the fence are taking note. If you are vacillating about making a voyage you won't see a better
set of conditions or better fishing potential.

Needless to say following two days of bona fide offshore bluefin glory we have exhausted the majority of these champion
anglers that hung tough and produced big time. It is time for a change of pace and scenery. Sunny skies and beautiful weather
beckon from the south. A little variety in the form of yellowtail and other coastal favorites are in our sights for at least
a couple of days before we return to the offshore waters.

Photos today feature catch of the day angler Allenn Terre, who muscled in this 134# bruiser on 40# flurocarbon demonstrating
that although not optimal it can be done, and Matt Chang with one of his several seventy pounders coming over the rail.

Tim Ekstrom




Photo Here...

Photo Here...