10/13/14

Precisely the ending note we sought. Consistent with non-stop reports of widespread offshore glory during the past week our day began in grease calm weather far below the advertised zone. Even there it didn't take long. From the reports coming in over the wire it didn't take long anywhere. Everyone, everywhere - over one hundred miles of offshore waters, loaded up on big, beautiful dorado. A few "skin" were observed around just about every floating kelp and a handful were landed; nice ones too, average size of 40 - 50#'s.

These conditions and results at this time of year would be consistent with the zone below and outside the ridge, only in this case they were not. From less than 100 miles south of San Diego to at least 200 miles south water temperatures are in the 74 - 77 degree Fahrenheit range and loaded with tropical apex pelagic game fish; I didn't even mention the incredible sign of school size yellowfin tuna and numerous gaggles of striped marlin we saw. This is an incredible year, one that we will be talking about, fondly, for the remainder of our lives. It is that good, right now.

Arrival tomorrow will be followed by a night ashore restoring our big girl to tip top working order and allowing the boys a quick breather before heading out on our next ten day Wednesday morning. This one is soon to be in the books. An interesting, diverse ten day to say the least. In reflection one can only marvel at the variety of conditions, fishing, species, and scenery this voyage featured. It is safe to say that more diversity would be difficult to achieve. From grease calm seas, to sitting out a day of real weather in the protection of an island, to fishing for yellowtail above and wahoo down below we just about covered the entire spectrum of possibilities; exactly what fall ten day voyages are known for, and why anglers choose these adventures.

For the big three - quality, sufficient quantity, and variety, this voyage scores near perfect; a few larger tuna were the only missing components that would have propelled this run into the stratosphere were they found. Where this voyage does achieve a perfect score is fine company and camaraderie; fantastic individuals and anglers sharing time at sea in the spirit of good times. Always a great time with plenty of laughs and memorable adventure the annual North County Firefighter sponsored run, headed up by long time Royal Star friend and Charter Master Tim Marshall, adhered to tradition this voyage and then some.

To all our gratitude is extended as this voyage comes to an end. Photos today feature Royal Star veteran anglers Mark Mayeda with a fine example of the average dorado found this morning and Gene Hendrickson, eighty one years young, still showing his boys how it is done with this fine Alijos Rocks wahoo.

A final reminder also about the three day voyages coming up at the end of the month. I once again offer the opinion and sense that these voyages are lined up for success both offshore and along the beach as well as I ever recall. Saturday, October 25 - Tuesday October 28th, and Friday October 31st - Monday November 3rd are the dates. I'll be following the offshore happenings close during the upcoming week. If you're riding the fence, or need some convincing, feel free to give me a call in the office. Captain Brian "Gerbie" Sims takes the helm on the next ten day run sponsored by Tiburon products and Charter Master Bob Stenbro.

Tim Ekstrom

Photo Here...
Photo Here...