01/20/14

It would be very difficult to upset the harmony of this voyage shored by one of the most enjoyable 900 mile northwest passages I have experienced in my 27 years of fishing these waters. This continuing stretch of flat calm, no movement but for forward progress, is stunning, heavenly. While I have a tendency to make a big deal out of calm seas there is an obvious reason. The sweet peace of calm is akin to the beauty of a sleeping goddess; one that you can endlessly stare at in such a tranquil state and revere each line, each trace, knowing full well that something very different resides within.

Not wanting to wake the temptress, wishing the serene magic would endure but knowing full well it is only a pittance of time, the only option is to extract as much pleasure and fulfillment as the occasion will allow; and that is a broad notion. To what end individuals assign exception to the elements I can't say; best exposed some do some don't. But in this case such sublime beauty is not possible to ignore; even the most hardened agnostic might be touched, incited to think just a little, about the unknown.

Or one might just read their book, pass time in conversation, or snorkel into their electronic isolation chambers to whittle away the hours unencumbered by existential thought - probably better ideas than contemplating the universe; certainly less mind bending.

That aside the final day will again be passed in pure comfort as we ride the trend of flat calm all the way to the dock. Fishing stories, told time and again, are slated to rekindle after daylight as the reality of impending return begins to set in. This is a group of fishing heroes returning - a status achieved through the timeless combination of effort, drive, and good fortune.

Photo today features first time long range angler, but no stranger to fishing, Doug Tweedy pulling on a good one on the bow.

Tim Ekstrom

Photo Here...