02/23/15

A little bump and roll headed up the line but nothing beyond the scope of "normal" In fact, after such an extended stretch of glory weather - flat calm with near zero seas - it almost felt necessary to infuse at least some nautical sensation into this run before it comes to an end. And this was the perfect amount; just enough pitch to require attention without stripping one of the pleasure of enjoying the high seas.

Reflecting upon the voyage overall we complete the final travel leg to Los Cabos fat, happy, satisfied. No shortage of product, variety, or quality casts the fishing effort handily into the category of success. None of them came easy but that was for the better; every fish was appreciated as effort rewarded. Most important to the success of every run however is the atmosphere on board; the anglers themselves and their approach to the endeavor.

In this respect this veteran group of Royal Star long range anglers, that welcomed a couple of new recruits this year whom undoubtedly will be joining us on future voyages, has the most significant component of success in the bag before we even depart.

Understanding that the serious pursuit of trophy yellowfin tuna and wahoo is best tempered by recognition of the fact that this is a vacation, the focused tenor is suffused with abundant comedy, indulgence, and relaxation in down times. It goes a long way. We (Captain and crew) shoulder a tremendous amount of stress and anxiety about the individual and overall results during every voyage; that is our role. Anglers who allow us to bear the burdens and trust the fishing results to time in the water, perfect rigging, and Providence come out with a winning hand far more often than otherwise.

Just like any sport if one is all twisted and/or bound up in their approach the results are fairly predictable - not good. The Las Rocas group demonstrates the perfect approach to this game time and again; and the consistent, above average fishing results are a reflection of their knowledge gained over time. Our gratitude to Charter Master Glenn Evans and the entire "Las Rocas" group accordingly. I recall saying something on the way down to the effect of success following positive energy: case in point.

Photos today first feature newly initiated Las Rocas member Bobby Gonzales or "Bobby G!" with his personal best yellowfin tuna (175#) landed on our final morning. Photo number two features the 2015 "Las Rocas" group courtesy of Glenn Evans. Post text is also courtesy of Charter Master Glenn who adds a few words to today's narrative and thanks to the voyage's many generous sponsors.

Tim Ekstrom

Photo Here...
Photo Here...

p.s.

On the way down the traditional fundraiser raffle, dedicated to long time Royal Star crewmember Sean Bickel, raised $2,000.00 dollars from our "Los Rocas Group for the 3rd straight year! All of the proceeds will be donated to the trust fund established for his two sons in 2012..

I would like to personally thank the following for donating and being a part of the annual Los Rocas Invitational. Aftco, Accurate, Bill Boyce, Blackwater Finest Fishing Line, BloodyDecks, Brandon Hayward, Baja Fish Gear, Costa Del Mar, Cousins Tackle, Fisherman's Processing, Fisherman's Landing Tackle, Fishing Video.com, Fishworks, Inside Sportfishing, Island Fishing Tackle, Izorline, JRI Custom Lures, Jeff Burroughs "Long Range Sportfishing", Ken's Custom Reel, Let's Talk Hookup, Mission Brewery, Mitch's, Seafood, M & M Fishing Rod's, Nordstrom Woodworking Studio, Okuma, Owner, Royal Star Sportfishing, Sato Crimp & Winder, Shimano, Pelagic, Tady Lures, Western Outdoor News.

Glenn Evans, Charter Master, The Los Rocas group.