01/19/14

Calm, tranquil, a piece of paradise as we glide northwest unimpeded by liquid obstructions and damning wind; a flat ocean, no movement. Whether this is a refund on debts overpaid, or a high interest loan with a bill coming due, we receive this near unbelievable stretch of flat calm with gratitude. What a ride; a fitting conclusion to an exceptional span of fishing.

Many times I have ventured opinions about the amazing, unequaled features of this fishery world wide. This season again reveals just how real that idea is. In sport fishing there is nothing even slightly comparable in value, production, consistency of exceptional results, and quality of both fish size and the end product.

Anglers on this voyage, many of whom are Royal Star veterans and a handful of who are just being introduced, all join in recognition of this marvel as we slide up the line with ample time to reflect. Unbelievably enough this fishery is still the best kept secret in the sport fishing world. And it is simply because it really is, to the un-anointed, unbelievable.

How would you describe our style of fishing, how insanely good it can be, to one who has never fished with large quantities of live bait for voracious tuna? How could you sufficiently describe the quality of the care and handling of the product, each and every beautiful tuna that comes on board, in the face of such extreme conditions? How about the quality of the three daily meals included in the fare, and the experience of the Captain's and crew's? While I have only cited a few all of the core staples of a long range voyage, what we consider common, are really not, especially in comparison to alternative sport fishing venues around the world.

There is nothing like this for good reason - nowhere else is such potential, and all the tools necessary to take advantage of it, available. Long range fishing is an amazing coordination of equipment, knowledge and experience, favorable oceanic conditions, and individuals with the expertise and wherewithal to tap into the vast potential of well managed resources that promise healthy, sustainable production for generations to come.

Amidst all the surrounding noise and nonsense it is easy to lose focus of the good side of things. Long range fishing is one of those past times that in proper consideration can not be marred. Oh sure - there always are, and always will be glass half empty advocates that seek the underbelly for a cheap shot, but reality marginalizes (to my unending delight) those. I love this fishery for what it is, for what it does for sport fishing and it's enthusiasts. Relative to fishing it is a blessing, a godsend to be relished and revered. By all means take advantage anglers; it is too good to miss out on.

Photo today features another long range veteran who paid heed to the calling. Brett Rapozo got the job done on our final morning with a last round 215; job well done!

Tim Ekstrom

Photo Here...