Epic weather softened the hard knocks of slow scratch fishing and working amidst a determined abundance of pelagic silky sharks. More of a nuisance than anything the omnipresent patrolling "grinners" only occasionally grabbed a hooked fish focusing more on the sardines fished by anglers whom readily expressed dwindling affection for the local denizens.

It was a patience test, fishing almost always is, and as usual the spoils go to those who rise beyond the petty challenges, remain focused, and keep lines in the water. Similar to yesterday the day somewhat dragged on as we waited, and waited, for the late afternoon/evening event to come. Fortunately, though in smaller proportions than yesterday, it did indeed happen.

A couple of handfuls of better size yellowfin survived the gauntlet finding their way into the final RSW tank for the long ride home. The best of them was around one hundred seventy pounds with no real jumbos seen today or hooked. Overall I would certainly like to see a different set of fishing conditions, contrary current in particular has this place all screwed up, but the other go to clich? in fishing - "it is what it is" dictates our present strategy. There is something here to work with; and something is far better than nothing.

The looming final day presents opportunity. That is my perspective in full. We have all the tools and wherewithal to end this run on a colossal note. All we need now is for the fish to arrive at the party.
Photos today feature yet another long range master reefing on one of his two cows taken on this run, and with his 226 coming through the gate.

Doug Taylor has so many long range achievements to his credit that I again would need pages, perhaps even volumes, to adequately chronicle. Suffice it to say that Doug is an exemplary long range angler who consistently earns above average results. He is far from lucky, I can tell you that; he bests the odds by fishing hard, preparing and maintaining his equipment to the highest standards, and driving through inevitable set backs with determined resolve. In any fishery these universal attributes of success are rules to live by

Tim Ekstrom

Photo Here...
Photo Here...