03/11/14

Fair winds and calm seas combined for a smooth passage across. A degree of calm rare for this stretch of ocean we did not take the good fortune for granted. Spirits were lively and flowing and the last frontier enjoyed by revelers awash in sub-tropical sunshine softened by friendly high clouds and a kind and easy breeze.

Without a doubt this group of anglers has seized upon the essence of long range. Sharing the passion for fishing among those of like mind, making the most of a voyage amidst friends old and new, and recognizing that time is the most valued commodity - the catching plays into these foundational concepts more often than not as destiny fulfilled. I have hit upon this theme a few times over the past year. In many ways out here the group mind can have an effect upon fortune. Though I can not provide direct evidence of this belief I doubt there are many who would disagree.

Good, positive environments tend to produce things beneficial. The opposite is also true. And even when the fishing itself falls off, or fails to deliver, those groups that maintain an upbeat atmosphere can't wait to return and give it another go. It is not just the fishing, or catching, that makes for a successful long range adventure. It is the Captain, crew, and especially the anglers that define success on any given voyage.

In the case of this run we return fat, happy, and satisfied with the end result. Though production tapered off when our big move for glory fell short of our goal we still end the trip with a bounty of fresh, premium RSW product that will be enjoyed by friends and family for months to come. Nine yellowfin tuna over the 200 pound mark presently reside in the tanks as well as numerous others from 140 - 190 pounds. Throw in a handful or two more in the 75 - 120 pound range for each angler, in addition to a few "skin" and the final tally in quantity and quality is impressively representative of big league long range fishing.

Photos today feature another long time Royal Star friend and veteran John Santaella pulling on one of his many vanquished opponents of this run. John and I go back at least 21 years when he first fished for Bluefin with me on Royal Star in July of 1993. I'll never forget the younger, and no less entertaining, John landing ten bluefin over 100 pounds in about a ten hour time frame during that memorable voyage. No less capable now John remains one of the most pleasant, easy going, easy to get along with anglers we are privileged to fish with. Photo number two features a crewman's eye view as a gaff is sunk into this 225 pound, bruiser yellowfin. Captain Brian Sims is on the gaff and held on, true to his reputation, when this big bastard darted just as the gaff struck.

Tim Ekstrom

Photo Here...
Photo Here...