We scratched out a fair morning here at the rocks for 40 yft with a sprinkling of yellows but unfortunately the afternoon fell flat. With the weather picking up a notch and the fish going off the bite, we opted to start our trek back up the line earlier than expected and are hoping for a good day of yellowtail fishing tomorrow in the lee of an island. Kurt Dearie with a 81lb yft is today's shot which is the jackpot at this point.

Photo Here...

We enjoyed a nice steady scratch for 65 yft from 30-80lb yft in good weather here at Alijos today. Overall pretty good sign with a good surface show around us all day. We are gooing to give this at least one more day before we start fishing our way back up the line. Today's shot shows Mark Mayeda with a 50lb class yft. M.L. and Bob, our thoughts are with you, the guys send their love, get well.

Photo Here...

Slow this morning in the offshore grounds but we did see good sign of fish. After hitting a handfull of spots for 25 mixed bft and albacore, we decided to bust a move to Alijos where we'll arrive tomorrow morning. Hopefully the weather stays good and this fish goes back on the bite for our second half of the trip. Our fleet is seeing good sign of bft over a vast area which should bode well for upcoming trips.

We started our eight day in the offshore grounds this afternoon for 47 bft, most of which were 25-30lbs with 10 from 50-60lbs. Very exciting fishing with numerous stops on football field sized foamers with a good majority of the fish in the spots being the 50-80lb grade. The albacore didn't show very well but we did have 13 mixed in on the various stops. With this sign of better grade bft were spending the night in hopes they cooperate tomorrow. Today's shot highlights the nice grade bf with Bob Newman, Jim Wade, and Jeff Cox showing off their 55-63lbers.

Photo Here...

We lucked out this afternoon and bumped into a nice area of scattered bft that broke up the ride home and made for a nice end to the trip. We had a handfull of stops on small boilers that were reluctant to bite but we managed to boat eight fish from 30-80lbs. Unfortunately we didn't have more time in this area as I'm sure we could have put together a nice day. We are traveling up tonight and will depart tomorrow on our annual Barking Spiders 8-day which the crew and I always look forward to.
Today's shot shows Braydon Duby getting a hand from his pops to show off his 50lb bft.

Photo Here...

It started out slow this morning here at Cedros but this afternoon produced nice steady action on school yellows which made for a fun day of fishing. We had our fill of this size fish by 1600 and started working up the line to hopefully have a shot at bft and albacore as we travel tomorrow. The offshore scene started to perk up today with good reports coming from a few different areas. With the weather forecast to improve we should see the offshore counts improve. On that note we have a couple openings on our 4-day leaving July 11.

We managed to put together a nice day on quality yellows here at the Bush in spite of a ravenous pinniped population. Our tally was 96 fish from 18-30lbs with one wsb thrown in. The offshore reports are still slow so we're headed over to Cedros tonight in hopes of fishing yellows tomorrow without the seal factor.
Today's shot shows Paul Thompson with his first wsb.

Photo Here...

We started our five day today taking a swing at the offshore grounds. The good news was we had good looking weather and got into an interesting area this afternoon where we looked at numerous small spots of 20-50lb bluefin, the bad was the lack of biting fish.We ended up coaxing 3 bft and 1 albacore out of quite a few stops. Hopefully it was just an off day and our code boats can get them to bite tomorrow.
We are running into an island tonight where we plan on fishing yellows tomorrow. Today's shot shows veteran angler Steve Carson who got things started today with this beautiful 52lb bft taken on a jig.

Photo Here...

Another all time, last minute, bottom of the ninth with two outs save that is permanently etched in all our memories. Beginning our day in 62 degree ugly water, it appeared that yesterday's trend was set to be the trip theme and we were going to have to grin and bear it to the bitter end. The good side of the morning is that the weather on the coast was gorgeous. That in itself was a huge improvement. So much so that regardless of the feeling of impending fishing doom, everyone was all smiles, enjoying breakfast, and soaking baits outside in the morning sunshine. It is amazing what a change from cruddy to beautiful weather does for morale.

Anyway, after various attempts along the coast seeking to avoid what was becoming the inevitable, we ran dry of options and headed up to join the fray at the local Coronado islands to end the voyage. At this point I have to admit my trepidation about the Coronado's was as much about a lack of local knowledge as anything. Simply put, I don't fish around there, and haven't for about twenty five years. Heading up to compete with professionals who fish there daily presented dubious prospects at best. I can always hold my own, but the idea that I was going to take on the crowd, ferocious sea lion population, and professional fishermen in the local fleet and come out on top was farthest from my mind. I not a doomsayer, all of you reading are well aware of my strong self confidence, but this time reality was about to put me in my proper place; so I thought.

We rolled up to the southern most spot of the Coronado's to find beautiful conditions, no sea lions, and only one boat in sight distant from the spot I wanted to fish. Two days prior we saw some signs of yellowtail in this area so it was a natural for us to try again. We got lined up, dropped the anchor at 0900, and departed at 1115 with one hundred five 18 - 25# yellowtail in the hatch. Even better is the fact that we left them biting. As the word got out, and our colleagues came flying down the coast to join us, we figured that we had plenty, and departed to make room for the other guys. It was unbelievably gratifying. It still is. What a morning. On top of everything, the surface showing of yellowtail around the boat was as good as any that I have seen just about anywhere. Shoals of yellows, emboldened by their voracious appetite, were plowing sardines on the surface for a quarter square mile around Royal Star at times so close to the hull that one could reach out and touch them with a long fishing rod. Incredible. Throw in grease calm weather, and warm morning sunshine and the story is finished. What a morning. What a godsend. What a spectacular surprise.

Needless to say we departed for home on cloud nine basking in the euphoria of such a surreal occurrence. I have never felt better about a day of fishing in my career. Everyone else on board seemed to agree. With spirits soaring we arrived at Fisherman's Landing and prepared Royal Star for our final night in until October. Capt. Toussaint departs on our next five day adventure tomorrow heading down the line to rejoin our colleagues in more familiar haunts. Look for Randy's reports to continue and have a fine day.

Photos feature our good friend Jason Hammond and his wife Sofia who made her first Royal Star voyage this two day. I have to say it was a little dicey for Sofia offshore as the sloppy weather did a good job of taking the fun out of it. As this photo demonstrates however all's well that ends well. With four or five good yellowtail for her morning of fishing, yesterday quickly faded into distant memory. Thank goodness! I'll throw a few other shots in as well at full resolution a little later. There will be a lag time as I need to recover the shots from our rig on Royal Star. Enjoy the images and your day!

Tim Ekstrom

Photo Here...
Photo Here...

Let's just say that it is a good thing I had the camera ready to take a photo when I did. It was one of those days. Our serene conditions enjoyed the prior voyage went to pieces as eighteen to twenty two knots of wind turned the ocean into something to be endured rather than enjoyed. Combined with a swell from the outside jacked up by a strong convergence of current, the sea state was far from ideal for targeting offshore bluefin - to say the least. Of course we are well acquainted with such conditions, and well equipped to fish effectively regardless, but rarely do such conditions have a positive effect on the fishing offshore. Today was no exception.

Adhering to the pattern established long before, the bluefin that were so prolific the two prior days split into many small spots that were wild, unresponsive, and on the surface for minimal amounts of time. We had plenty to look at, and plenty of opportunities to stop and try, but with the weather up, and the fish almost giving us the complete middle finger, I can't spin this day's results into any kind of "good fishing". It was difficult, the weather was difficult, and we caught almost nothing - almost.

I suppose it provides some comfort to know that we were all in the same boat. Our colleagues from every point of departure experienced similar results. It is not that misery loves company. It is simply validation of the fact that today our best efforts were not going to change the inevitable. There were a lot of good fishermen in the zone today who departed with empty sacks and a distinct taste of bile on their palate. Such is fishing. And to borrow an old cliché - "days like this make the good days that much better". Truer words were never spoke.

So we headed up at day's end with our best foot forward delighted to know that we were on course for beautiful weather for our second day of fishing. Catching or not we are going to be comfortable as we work up the coast in search of alternative game species. White Sea Bass, Yellowtail, and whatever else we find to yank on the end of a line are all fair game, and in our sights for tomorrow. It will be a good time regardless.

Hero of the day Steve Tsujiuchi earned full honors catching the one and only bluefin from a mid day stop where we were surrounded by the extraordinarily wily tuna. Steve's twenty nine pound fish at least legitimized the seemingly endless announcements I was making over the P.A. informing anglers of the presence of tuna visible under Royal Star on the fathometer. I am forever grateful. All kidding aside it is great to share the deck with Steve again as he and I go back at least twenty three years to my early days working as chief engineer and second captain on Royal Polaris. Steve was a superb fisherman then, and is a superb fisherman now always using impeccable gear perfectly rigged for the time, setting, and species targeted. Look for tomorrow's report with the final details. Also, my most sincere happy Father's Day goes out to all the dad's reading this narrative. I have to admit that I am really looking forward to seeing my kids Charlie and Duke tomorrow afternoon. They make it all worthwhile.

Tim Ekstrom

Photo Here...

I would have to say that again it was a pleasant day of fishing in calm seas and good conditions, but the overall results were paltry at best. Best said, it appears to me that the table is set, but the guests have yet to arrive in the local grounds. As such, we finished up our fishing time anchoring up a few spots in extreme local waters, then packed it in just after lunch and headed for the barn. As I reported yesterday, though we were far from sinking the boat with fish, a good time was had by all.

Now we are on to the next and final two day heading back south to try our hand off shore in significantly changed weather conditions. Though not horrible, or even close by our standards, it does appear that we will be doing some bumpin and jumpin while searching for the mother lode of bluefin. We have a great group of anglers to make or break with, and plenty of time and motivation. Suffice to say that with the group of anglers we have on board we are well prepared to make the most of any opportunities presented.

The stakes are high with the weekend stampede streaming down the coast so we are geared up and ready to get down to business tomorrow with our sleeves rolled up and gloves on. Here we go. Final photo from our first two day voyage features Royal Star veteran angler Gary Licht who picked off his share of the 20 - 30# class bluefin tuna landing two of the prized shortfin among the afternoon boiler action. Look for reports to continue as the games begin.

Tim

Photo Here...

This turned out to be a fun day of fishing. I can't report that the catching was spectacular; the vast majority of the bluefin tuna we pursued were very reluctant to bite, but we consistently coaxed a few onto our lines per afternoon stop, and enjoyed a tremendous surface show in the process. It was an action filled, visually stimulating day of fishing that kept all of us fully engaged, and fired up for the next stop. And stops were plentiful. After 1400 it was basically a pick an choose affair on the bridge as we had our choice of four or five different spots within sight at all times. Granted none of them were big boomers, which in the day and age of Armageddon purse seining is a good thing, but there was enough fish to create competition, and motivate a few to climb on our lines almost every afternoon stop.

Success is always relative. In today's case I have to say my recent memory does not produce a scenario when I was more pleased with the results of twenty two bluefin tuna for a day's effort. Regardless of the numbers, it was a good day of fishing. The fact that we were always busy, always looking at something, and perpetually stopping with fish crashing around the boat made for a good time. To an individual every angler felt like they had a good chance of hooking a nice bluefin the entire afternoon and evening. Though we didn't load up on big quantity, it's amazing how gratifying a day like this can be. Fun fishing. A definite success from my perspective.

With at least a half day to work offshore up above, we will head to a new zone tomorrow and resume the search. It sounds like things are waking up all around, and there are much more favorable conditions rapidly developing. As such we are looking forward to the morning of fishing before throwing in the towel and returning in preparation for the next trip. Look for reports to continue.

One final note is don't hesitate to jump on a 1 1/2 or two day local voyage this weekend if you can squeeze it in. The set up is definitely better and fishing appears to be on the upswing.

Photos today feature anglers Brian Brownlee and Dennis McNeely with their twenty two pound class bluefin tuna landed yesterday. Both of these wily devils succumbed to the Megabait style jigs that have been very effective during the past week. Good fun.

Tim Ekstrom.


Photo Here...

Well it appears that the most encouraging indications of bluefin tuna last weekend spread out all over the ocean into small spots containing a few handfuls of fish. As is so often the case, when the wind came up, the fishing went to heck as the water rolled over and a significant transition began. So, now that a big change is in the works, it is time for us to do our part joining the local fleet to collectively root out the next wave.

We departed on our first of two exclusive two day voyages that will feature all the Royal Star amenities as we ply the local offshore waters in search mode. There have been consistent indications of bluefin, and the weather looks like it is primed to cooperate, so we are set to make our best go of it on the grounds tomorrow. Still sitting on a primo load of sardines from Capt. Sims' and the boys latest, rugged three day effort, we are in perfect position to do some damage on any and everything we find.

I have to reveal that the overall picture is presently more than a little dubious. But, and I have said this many times before, this is when we show our true colors; when demonstrate what we are made of. Strength in the face of adversity. We have made a lot of catches over the years in what appeared to be the most difficult circumstances. Regardless of what we find we are determined to show this group of anglers a good time. We will make it happen.

Look for tomorrow's report with the details and good news to come. Have a fine day!

Tim Ekstrom

We headed in to an island last night and slept in flat calm conditions. We fished the Island for about two and a half hours in the morning. Conditions were poor and the fish were not biting. We then headed back offshore for the afternoon. We found similar conditions to yesterday, with small spots of bluefin up breaking on the surface. Unfortunately they were just as reluctant to bite. We managed a few for the afternoon and then ran out of time. This is typical of the elusive bluefin, a couple of days biting then back to all show and no go. These fish will bite again and I hope to be onboard to exact some justice. The guys from R.J. Allen made the most of their time, enjoying their surroundings and Chef Drew Rivera's exquisite cuisine.

We will be back at the dock at 0830 tomorrow morning and back out with Tim at the helm tomorrow night.

Brian

Today's offshore catching was on the slow side. We saw small spots of bluefin up crashing on the surface and could get the boat right next to them. The visual show was exciting , but the fish proved very reluctant to bite.

On the flip side Angler Henry Cortez had a great day. He hooked and landed the fish of a lifetime on a chrome and blue, glow back jig. The 110# Opah put up a valiant fight before coming aboard. Our photo of the day shows Henry proudly displaying his fine catch.

Brian

Photo Here...

With a great load of bait and good working weather, we are excited about tomorrows prospects for offshore fishing. We will be concentrating our efforts on bluefin tuna or any other game fish we might come across. Check back tomorrow to see how our first day of fishing went.

Brian

Right on cue the bluefin have arrived in the one hundred mile range and promise to continue coming. Based on what we see down below, and historical precedent, my best prediction is that we are in for some good bluefin action on the local (overnight through two and three day trips) beginning now. Following last week's blow there promises to be a good weather window this week, or at least the next few days. I would say things are shaping up beautifully for the upcoming Royal Star two day voyages this week. As of now we have at least a handful of openings on the Wed - Fri trip and possibly one or two on the Fri - Sat. If you can make either trip I encourage you to give Tracy or I a call in the Royal Star office. This is a great opportunity to jump on Royal Star and receive first class long range treatment on a voyage of only two days! The all inclusive price is fantastic and complimentary on board filleting is an added bonus. Also, anglers will have the option to have their product professionally butchered and vacuum packed by Fisherman's Processing upon request.

On that note Fisherman's Processing is up and running to our full satisfaction, and, more importantly, to the satisfaction of many customers who have opted to try the new processing service upon their return. Things are running smoothly and same day customers are very pleased with the short wait times, quality of the service, and finished product. I have to say, based on positive customer feedback, that it makes quite an impression to see Frank Lo Preste, Randy Toussaint, Sean Sebring, and I in the back, sleeves rolled up, getting the job done with our guys. This is the type of individuals all of us are. I mentioned in various promotions that we guarantee the outcome of your processing experience with a combined 120 years of San Diego Sport fishing experience between us. I meant it. We are hands on all the way when, where, and if we are needed. The combination of our incredible amount of experience on the Sport Fishing waterfront, our unique awareness of the importance of strong, consistent customer service, and our combined work ethic that speaks through our accomplishments and contributions to the sport fishing community, supports angler's decision to try Fisherman's Processing. That is all we ask for out of the gates - for anglers to give the new service a try. You will not be disappointed. Guaranteed.

Capt. Sims departed today on our annual RJ Allen three day voyage in perfect position to strike far or near in search of Albacore and Bluefin tuna. With the good weather pending and a great group of anglers, I am very optimistic about their odds. Look for Capt. Sims' (Gerbie's) reports to commence tomorrow as the narrative continues. Also, if I can get my act together I have some good images from the processing line at Fisherman's processing to share. Have a fine Sunday and keep your fingers crossed that the off shore setting continues to develop. Good fishing is on the way.


Tim Ekstrom

Our weather slowly improved throughout the day as we worked up the line prospecting for our upcoming trips. We didn't see much until this afternoon when we got into an area of 20-25lb bft and had two quick stops for ten fish.This area looked good and is well within range of shorter trips. With the weather being forecast to glass off and this bft showing, it looks great for the upcoming two and three day trips on our schedule.

Our weather slowly improved throughout the day as we worked up the line prospecting for our upcoming trips. We didn't see much until this afternoon when we got into an area of 20-25lb bft and had two quick stops for ten fish.This area looked good and is well within range of shorter trips. With the weather being forecast to glass off and this bft showing, it looks great for the upcoming two and three day trips on our schedule.

Just what we were hoping for today, nice steady surface action on the yellows in flat calm weather. The bulk of the fish were 12-18lb school fish but we did have a few shots at the 30-40lbers that put on a great show. After enjoying dinner in the lee we started our trek up the line and plan on looking for bft and albacore tomorrow if the weather cooperates.
Today's shot shows Phil Miranda with a 'premium grade' yellow.

We arrived here at Cedros this afternoon after a bumpy ride up from the rocks. Fishing yellows here in this beautiful lee is always a good time but we're especially thankful for it now with the poor weather offshore. We had one very good showing on the premium grade yellows with sheets of 30lb plus fish going through the corner looking like seals when they boiled. In spite of the show it was tough to get a bite but we managed to put 12 aboard before they continued on their way. With more rugged weather in the forecast we're opting to spend the night here and concentrate on the yellows tomorrow. I was hoping to finish the trip in the offshore grounds fishing bft and albacore but the lack of coverage combined with the weather has made it an easy decision to stay here at the island. A group shot today showing off the nice grade of yellows we typically catch here at Cedros.

Photo Here...

The morning bite never materialized again here at the rocks today but our patience was finally rewarded this afternoon when this nice grade tuna got on us and started hitting. We put 60 fish in the hatch from 30-60lbs by 1800 and decided to bid the rocks a fond farewell and start working back up the line. Our weather is deteriorating so we're looking forward to a couple days fishing yellows at Cedros in a flat calm lee. Today's shot shows Capt Brian Sims with an average Alijos yft gaffed for Bill Goodwin.

Photo Here...

I though I would add a supplemental to Randy's on the water report today to spread some news, and address a very consistent inquiry we have been fielding in the Royal Star office, and on Royal Star. Pertaining to Guadalupe, and the present status of the 2010 season, I know this. We (the SAC fleet) have permits to fish the big island in hand for 2010. But, we are still working to resolve an issue with the immigration department in Ensenada. This issue has been long standing, has been the root of our difficulties gaining uninterrupted access to Guadalupe, and is the result of a multitude of financial and political factors.

I can tell everyone that I feel more confidence in the process than ever before as our SAC director Ken Franke has made quantum leaps in developing positive relationships south of the border. This is not an easy issue to resolve, and has festered for several years, much to the chagrin of those of us who have been denied access to the amazing outside island in the past. I believe now that we are on the right track heading for a long term solution to the benefit of all user groups at Guadalupe. On a percentage basis, I hesitate to stick my neck out. Based on recent conversations with the director however, I would offer that we are in position to get this thing resolved soon. The most important component of the equation - permission to fish at the island, is in hand.


The next commentary I have to share is related to my daily posts from on board Royal Star in general. Based on feedback I receive upon returning from various voyages I feel it is time to set the record straight on one item in particular. It seems that a small percentage of individuals are convinced that every time I promote Royal Star, our experience, the benefits of our operation, exult some success we find, or recommend our operation over competitors, that I am slandering or "bashing" the long range vessel "M/V Intrepid". This is inaccurate, and false.

Now, mind you I have absolutely talked some smack a few years back, never naming any vessel in particular, but leaving little doubt in my references. I one hundred percent got too carried away on at least a couple of occasions. This is the genesis of the present cabal of Tim Ekstrom haters that go rabid on the various internet chat rooms every time I promote a Royal Star, or in the latest instance, long range advantage. It appears that plenty of effort is exerted toward misinterpreting whatever message I am offering. To what end I am not certain, but I suppose the ultimate goal is to tear me down, and marginalize my influence in San Diego Sport Fishing. O.K. Fine. The bottom line though is that it is pure negativity, and boasts zero productive potential for the sport fishing world, and all individuals involved. It is time to move on.

My message that I hope will resonate loud and clear among everyone reading this website, and to anyone else in the entire world this reaches via all internet forums, is this: The Royal Star website, and daily internet postings are about Royal Star. They are not about M/V Intrepid. I do not spend one second of my time scheming on how to tear down their operation. Live and let live. Once again so I am abundantly clear, I have earned some criticism through past comments, I accept full responsibility for all my actions. The distant past however becomes more distant by the minute; unless there is a concerted effort to kindle the flames of hatred.

So, to the Tim Ekstrom hate crew that so loves to pile on every time I so much as speak of how great we are, and how much better we do it than our competition. Let it go. I am not referencing the Intrepid or any other exact boat when I make such remarks. I am promoting Royal Star. I have tremendous pride in our operation, our crew, our product, and the advances we have introduced and freely shared with the sport fishing community. I am proud and market our operation as the best. I encourage every other sport fishing operation to do the same. If you don't believe you are, if you believe that you are only as good as the next guy out there, why should a potential customer choose your operation over the other? I believe we are exceptional at Royal Star. So do many other unbelievably loyal anglers who choose our operation year after year. They are never disappointed. For nearly seventeen years we have presented and maintained a consistent standard of quality, ability, and dedication to our industry that is a measure aspired to by others. I know it, and I live it every day I am out there with our customers and crew. We earn our living honestly. If you are among the Tim Ekstrom hate crew package up your ill will and move on. The time has arrived.


Tim Ekstrom

Nice scratching in beautiful weather here at the rocks today that started off with a night bite for 70 yellows. The better grade tuna were a little reluctant in the morning but made up for it this afternoon with a nice steady pick for 105 fish. The bulk of the yft were 20-60lbs with one standout that went 97. We are planning on giving this one more day before working back up the line. Today's shot shows Mike Nagao with the fish of the trip so far, a 97lber.


I though I would add a supplemental to Randy's on the water report today to spread some news, and address a very consistent inquiry we have been fielding in the Royal Star office, and on Royal Star. Pertaining to Guadalupe, and the present status of the 2010 season, I know this. We (the SAC fleet) have permits to fish the big island in hand for 2010. But, we are still working to resolve an issue with the immigration department in Ensenada. This issue has been long standing, has been the root of our difficulties gaining uninterrupted access to Guadalupe, and is the result of a multitude of financial and political factors.

I can tell everyone that I feel more confidence in the process than ever before as our SAC director Ken Franke has made quantum leaps in developing positive relationships south of the border. This is not an easy issue to resolve, and has festered for several years, much to the chagrin of those of us who have been denied access to the amazing outside island in the past. I believe now that we are on the right track heading for a long term solution to the benefit of all user groups at Guadalupe. On a percentage basis, I hesitate to stick my neck out. Based on recent conversations with the director however, I would offer that we are in position to get this thing resolved soon. The most important component of the equation - permission to fish at the island, is in hand.

The next commentary I have to share is related to my daily posts from on board Royal Star in general. Based on feedback I receive upon returning from various voyages I feel it is time to set the record straight on one item in particular. It seems that a small percentage of individuals are convinced that every time I promote Royal Star, our experience, the benefits of our operation, exult some success we find, or recommend our operation over competitors, that I am slandering or "bashing" the long range vessel "M/V Intrepid". This is inaccurate, and false.

Now, mind you I have absolutely talked some smack a few years back, never naming any vessel in particular, but leaving little doubt in my references. I one hundred percent got too carried away on at least a couple of occasions. This is the genesis of the present cabal of Tim Ekstrom haters that go rabid on the various internet chat rooms every time I promote a Royal Star, or in the latest instance, long range advantage. It appears that plenty of effort is exerted toward misinterpreting whatever message I am offering. To what end I am not certain, but I suppose the ultimate goal is to tear me down, and marginalize my influence in San Diego Sport Fishing. O.K. Fine. The bottom line though is that it is pure negativity, and boasts zero productive potential for the sport fishing world, and all individuals involved. It is time to move on.

My message that I hope will resonate loud and clear among everyone reading this website, and to anyone else in the entire world this reaches via all internet forums, is this: The Royal Star website, and daily internet postings are about Royal Star. They are not about M/V Intrepid. I do not spend one second of my time scheming on how to tear down their operation. Live and let live. Once again so I am abundantly clear, I have earned some criticism through past comments, I accept full responsibility for all my actions. The distant past however becomes more distant by the minute; unless there is a concerted effort to kindle the flames of hatred.

So, to the Tim Ekstrom hate crew that so loves to pile on every time I so much as speak of how great we are, and how much better we do it than our competition. Let it go. I am not referencing the Intrepid or any other exact boat when I make such remarks. I am promoting Royal Star. I have tremendous pride in our operation, our crew, our product, and the advances we have introduced and freely shared with the sport fishing community. I am proud and market our operation as the best. I encourage every other sport fishing operation to do the same. If you don't believe you are, if you believe that you are only as good as the next guy out there, why should a potential customer choose your operation over the other? I believe we are exceptional at Royal Star. So do many other unbelievably loyal anglers who choose our operation year after year. They are never disappointed. For nearly seventeen years we have presented and maintained a consistent standard of quality, ability, and dedication to our industry that is a measure aspired to by others. I know it, and I live it every day I am out there with our customers and crew. We earn our living honestly. If you are among the Tim Ekstrom hate crew package up your ill will and move on. The time has arrived.


Tim Ekstrom

We got our latest eight day voyage off to a great start this afternoon with a full rack bite on beautiful 20-30lb albacore and a handful of 25lb bluefin. After catching our daily limit on the albies and seeing a lack of bluefin, we left them biting and continued our southern trek to Alijos where we'll arrive tomorrow around 1300. Hopefully we can pick up where Tim left off and spend a few days down here catching quality tuna and yellows before working back up the line. Today's shot shows the aftermath of our wide open albacore bite.

Photo Here...

Not the hot and heavy action that they had last trip but we still put together a nice afternoon here at Alijos. We put 70 yft in the hatch from 18-55lbs and released numerous small fish. We're hoping they act better in the morning as we saw very good sign of fish. Sam sends his love and misses you Adriana. Today's shot shows first time long range angler Ruthann Vaughn getting a helping hand from her father with a 50lb class yft.

We covered some good water, enjoyed fine weather, and made way to the northwest scouring for any signs of new life or things to come. Though we came up with zero fish for the effort, it was worth it. And, after many such missions and plying these waters in the early phases of upcoming seasons I will offer this: the door is open. Without a doubt the water structure is in place, and the offshore bluefin and albacore are on their way to the local zones. I can't nail down any exacts on where and when, but I can say that it will happen.

On the long range front it sounds like the guys absolutely throttled the albacore and bluefin again yesterday late. Supermarket fishing again. How incredible. Before I sign off for this voyage I want to throw out a friendly reminder about these early eight day voyages that we have run since I began operating Royal Star in 1992. This fishing we are presently experiencing is no phenomena. I have experienced this exact same set up, at this time of year, at least eight or nine times over the past twenty four years of working on long range vessels. It is very common for things to develop quickly at this time of the year. Even our brochure references this. If you take a look it is clearly presented under the spring/early summer eight day title. This voyage is the living example of what these trips are promoted as and designed for. In short, it is a great time of year to go fishing.

For whatever reason these early voyages have fallen out of favor with many fishermen who opt to wait until the fishing "gets good" later in the season. Taking the results of this trip into account, and so many like it in the past, you all should put this time of the year back on your fishing radar. Between the incredible value, and obvious, consistent fishing potential again I state - this is a fantastic time of year to go fishing.

So with tomorrow comes our first turn around of the new season and changing of the guard as Capt. Randy Toussaint returns following a long winter and spring of harassing white sea bass in the local kelp forest. Without a doubt he is ready to get back out an assert his well know superior ability in the offshore arena. In addition, it appears that just about everywhere is waking up. After Randy has had such a long stretch on the beach I almost feel pity for the fish. Between Randy returning, and the Baja Fish Gear group of outstanding anglers, there is going to be some real catching forecasted in the near future.

I will send photos for today from the home front as the remaining shots from the voyage will certainly look better at full resolution. I have a couple of real dandies to share. In the meantime I sign off. I will be attending to plentiful administrative duties in the office next week preparing the schedule for 2011 - 2012. In addition to Tracy, I will be available to field calls throughout the week. Randy will keep everyone posted as to the progress of the next voyage on Royal Star. They are going to clobber them.


Tim

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Probably everyone reading yesterday's report easily determined that I wasn't too wrought up by yesterday's lack of results; with good reason that I have spoke of before. There are those times when our fishing instincts are in sync with the grand mechanism and one can almost feel what is coming. This works both ways. Sometimes you know you are going to get punished, sometimes you know it is going to be your day, or your trip. Admittedly the sixth sense is not one hundred percent accurate. I have been surprised by an incorrect notion plenty of times. But more often than not it is dependable.

I have known the results we experienced today were coming since the first day of the trip. Not the exact details of course. But, I have had the feeling that we were lined up perfectly for the offshore zone to develop in our favor since the day we traveled down the line and saw all signs pointing in this direction. We staged our moves accordingly. And tempered our catching to be able to take full advantage of any opportunities to catch albacore and bluefin tuna we encountered while heading up the line. It worked out this time.

Don't get me wrong either. I'm not claiming super hero status for making a good catch. It happens out here all the time. Every good long range Captain out here practices the same art. It is what we do for a living. I'm simply pointing out, for those who didn't or don't know, that such incredible catches of variety, quantity, and quality, are not by accident or luck. They are almost always a result of a well executed strategy coordinated by a good fishing Captain. A huge amount of experience in these waters doesn't hurt either. This is not the first time we have seen this set up.

On this note I would encourage anyone to do their homework when considering making a long range trip. Use the information above as a measure. Your best resources are the local tackle stores like Baja Fish Gear and Fisherman's Landing tackle that employ anglers enthusiastic about fishing who are in the know. I trumpeted the merits of experience above. While I can guarantee that the results of your fishing voyage with an experienced Captain will not be the result of pure luck, I can not say the same of the results of a trip with an inexperienced Captain. Yes, sometimes luck is better than experience. We have all had our rear ends handed to us by a new comer. But, who would you rather stake the success of your voyage on? Someone who has never fished a day in these waters, or someone who has fished down here for many years?

So our final full day was akin to going to the fishing super market. Drive up, get out of the car, head inside, grab a cart, and commence walking the isles loading up as you go. Even with pacing ourselves, we were done on bluefin by about 1600 then spent the remainder of the day doing our best to avoid them exclusively targeting albacore. It was a difficult task. Almost every time we stopped the boat on albacore, the bluefin showed up again. They were very prolific, and very eager. The vast majority were 20 - 25 pounds, with a few 30's and 40's, and a few handfuls of real standouts in the 50 - 65# class. What an incredible day of offshore fishing. Add the albacore to the equation and wow. Flat calm weather didn't hurt either. Suffice to say that every angler on board is presently on cloud nine. They certainly earned it.

Our final day will be spent in prospecting mode as we are presently fat on fish and fully satisfied. When this opportunity arises we are quick to take advantage and do some looking for the rest of the fleet, and next round of trips to come. With epic weather, a huge load of fish, and time on our hands it is the obvious thing to do. So a few hours of our day will be spent in search mode then we will call it and head up the line in preparation for a 0600 arrival at Fisherman's Landing on Saturday. If any of you have every wondered about how a beautiful load of RSW fish appears Saturday is a fantastic opportunity to find out. This catch is bound to be a good as they come.

Photos today feature a couple of the "standouts" that illicit a flood of fond memories in this Captain about the unbelievable fishing for bluefin tuna we experienced in the 1990's and early 2000's. It was a sweet albeit too short trip down memory lane. These are beauties though aren't they? Long range veteran Keith Bridges and crewman Greg Tanji do the honors with Keith's 50 pound dandy. And Royal Star ex crewman now fire fighter Mike Morrison shows he still has the stuff with Capt. Sims and another fifty pound class bluefin prize. Look for tomorrow's final report and photos.

Tim

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If it weren't for the fact that we are sitting on a beautiful load of tuna and yellowtail in the RSW tanks, dressed, cleaned, and cared for to perfection by the guys on deck, we would likely be wrought up by today's lack of results. In short, we caught almost nothing. It was a full day of looking, scouring, and grinding out every nook and cranny in an attempt to make rain fall from a clear sky. Well, maybe not quite that tough. But, there was a lack of sign nearly everywhere and not a whole hell of a lot we could do about it.

What we can do about it when these inevitable occasions arise is keep trying. And try we did logging in a full day scratching a few, and I mean a few, premium grade yellowtail in the process. As far as the lack of sign is concerned I would chalk it up to conditions and nothing more. In no way did I have a sense of Armageddon or doom about long term prospects for the areas we searched. We were just there on the wrong day, or the wrong week.

Like I said however we took the slow day in stride, enjoyed the weather and scenery tremendously, and finally threw in the towel at day's end satisfied to drop the hook and allow anglers the opportunity to fish potluck; or otherwise just fish for the sake of fishing. It was a good time. Everyone loosened up, threw the bass tackle, soaked a few baits on light gear, or loafed around yarning as fishermen do. You should have heard the stories. What a bunch of B.S. - exactly what I would expect from any good fishing crew. These guys can really sling it. Sundown, grease calm, glorious scenery, zero pressure to produce; and best of all - no television, no cell phones, no grief from the vast array of domestic sources that grind away at one's sanity. It was a fine ending to an otherwise uneventful day.

Now we change gears shifting to offshore mode in search of albacore and bluefin to round out our catch of Alijos rocks yellowtail and yellowfin tuna. Thus far we have nailed the weather perfectly and it appears that the trend will continue for our efforts outside tomorrow. Prospects are encouraging as one of our colleagues connected big time late today. After today's results, or lack thereof, needless to say our drive to produce significant quantity has been recalibrated. If they show themselves, and have any inclination to bite, they will pay dearly. We are definitely looking to tip the scales back in our favor.

Photo today again features the photogenic Capt. Brian Sims and Royal Star veteran Jimmy Rabbit with a fine example of yesterday's quarry. Have a fine day and look for tomorrow's report with the offshore details.

Tim


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It is a good thing we made hay while the sun was shining as the tuna decided to take the day off down below. There was plenty around, and conditions were fine, but they went off the bite opting to tour around the boat and tantalize anglers with their jumping antics only occasionally slurping down a jig or hooked bait. Such is fishing; and no surprise. Taking the change in stride, and feeling some serious gravitational force from happenings offshore above, we called it just after lunch and commenced the first northward travel leg of trip.

The present weather is as good as possible with flat calm seas affording anglers the opportunity to relax and enjoy themselves with zero effort. Heavenly would best describe it. Heavenly. Everyone reading likely recognizes that I consistently place strong emphasis on weather and sea conditions in my daily reporting. It is because the sea state is the single most significant comfort component of an ocean fishing voyage. As an example just ask the anglers who were out here last week. It's not that difficult weather ruins a trip or completely shuts us down, we are all well aware that Mother Nature's fiery disposition is unpredictable, and the given in the equation. And, we are well versed on how to make the most of whatever conditions come our way. It can be said however that fishing in flat calm conditions is infinitely more enjoyable than the opposite. I believe I'd be hard pressed to find anyone who would disagree. As such, it is always notable when conditions are good. Always.

So the pace changes tomorrow as we focus one day on the coast before continuing the northerly trek to resume fishing offshore. I mentioned above that there are some very exciting developments, and incredibly rapid changes occurring all over this ocean consistent with this time of year. Both bluefin tuna and albacore appear to be expanding by the minute as this now four day stretch of flat calm weather has opened the door for the flood to begin. And begin it has. Best said get ready. From what I know right now I would not be surprised to see a good showing of 15 - 25# bluefin and a sprinkling of albacore within the range of the local fleet in the next couple of weeks; perhaps even sooner. At the very least however there is a very good spread of ocean for all of the long range guys to focus on. We are ready, and will join the effort for our final two days in an attempt to end this voyage on the perfect note. There is nothing like topping off an already fine catch of yellowfin tuna and yellowtail with albacore and bluefin tuna on the way up the line. It is a picture perfect example of what these late spring/early summer eight day voyages are about. We have a ways to go before I start reveling however. The job is only half way done.

Photos for the day feature anglers Ron Volmer, pulling on a good yellowfin with serious determination at Rocas Alijos, and Joe Cavallaro, with Capt. Brian Sims, in a magazine style image with his trophy Alijos yellowtail. Have a fine day!

Tim

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