Royal Star Long Range Fishing report Bart Ryder/Accurate ten day voyage. 12-9
12/08/10
Posted: 09:29:00
A brief night in to put up the tree and sling some Christmas lights before heading out on our annual Bart Ryder/Accurate ten day voyage. The standout feature of this voyage format is the conclusion on day ten in Cabo San Lucas rather than San Diego. Anglers disembark in the sub tropical haven and take the express route home while Royal Star completes the final three day travel leg with a skeleton crew.
This extended itinerary broadens our field of options and finds us presently licking our chops in anticipation of great things to come. However I offer that sentiment with profound caution knowing full well the potential for anything and everything that lies ahead. The one certainty is that we have a stellar group of fishermen on board that without question will make the most from any opportunity we provide.
We are southbound again loaded with a primo bait and a few days to unwind and prepare. Our fishing destination is yet undecided. As information comes in over the wire we will evaluate and adjust accordingly. Regardless we have a few days of travel in our near future. Reports and photos will continue.
Tim Ekstrom
12/09/10
Posted: 09:17:00
A fruitful day of transit fueled by the quest for any and every form of relaxation available. As mini buffalo's thundered by we chugged our way south incredibly pleased to be following their lead. Heading in the opposite direction would not have been nice. Our group of seasoned veterans was pleased to pass the day in style sharing libations and discussing the prospect of rigging some tackle in preparation for our fishing to come. If I had to guess I would say that by day's end at least one individual initiated the charge. But his efforts did little to inspire fellow anglers who preferred to observe, imbibe, and micro critique the details of the rigging as it unfolded.
No stress here. Everyone is content to take their time and appreciate the complete departure from the home routine rife with expectations and responsibility. Eventually, perhaps tomorrow, the bugle will sound and anglers will rally to the task of tending to the soul responsibility out here - preparing their equipment for the fishing to come. With such incredible previous accomplishments to their credit, and a portfolio of big fish honors only a handful of individuals can approach, even the rigging prospect freights zero stress. It's simply nuts and bolts, with meticulous attention to detail.
The ride continues, as does the indulgence in fun. We are nearing the point of no return in our decided destination that still wavers based on new, very compelling information received late in the day. Things are on the move. Just when one thinks they have a handle on the big picture, a significant condition change throws a curve to twist that certitude into a knot. Nothing would be better than the ability to be two places at once. I love fishing - when I am right.
Tim Ekstrom
12/10/10
Posted: 09:33:00
There is nothing quite like witnessing the ocean change in temperament. Whether for better or worse it always elicits a sense of awe as our self awareness manifests as a mere audience to the grand theater. That is if one thinks on it. Otherwise it is just another day, just another revolution of the planet, inconsequential other than the fact that here we are in it, affected by even the slightest change.
Though we are hardly the seafarer's of past, with technology to describe and explain almost everything at our finger tips, it is hard to imagine passing thousands of days out here without developing some connection to the elements. At the very least one would expect instincts to sharpen and become wisdom with the accumulated years. Those instincts developed, and attended to, translate into confidence among crewmen and anglers for the individual in command. It is a tangible quality of leadership and experience. Experience that is reflected in every aspect of a professional operation.
It is worth an individual's time and resources to choose experience over bluster. The difference is palpable. The structure resulting from experienced leadership is easily recognized and understood by angler's as the identity of mature, professional operations. Unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately depending on one's perspective, with the technology at our disposal today vast experience is sorrowfully unnecessary to survive. Admittedly one can come out here, wing it, catch some fish, and make it back home with relative ease thanks to the big brains of mathematicians and hard efforts of our predecessors.
However, the atmosphere on a vessel, the crew dynamic, the leadership qualities of the individual in charge, are all revealed to perceptive, even not so perceptive anglers, who instinctively know a dog and pony show when they see one. And the reverse is equally obvious; and much more comforting to anglers entrusting professional's with their safety, well being, and fishing success for whatever span of time they venture yonder.
That was quite a tangent from my original thought that was meant to describe a mid morning weather change that was so abrupt, and beautiful, that it was a pleasure to the senses. The wind, that had been restlessly huffing and puffing over the past two days creating that slate gray, chiseled sea state almost ominous in intent, instantly backed about twenty degrees and abated about ten knots. There had been several intervals during the past couple of days when the wind increased and decreased but this time was different. One could actually feel the change. The atmosphere softened, the temperature rose perceptibly, and the seas took on a gentle character welcoming and amenable. In short, we passed from temperate to sub-tropic in the snap of two fingers. Just like that it went from unpredictable, even slightly foreboding, to warm and hospitable outside.
Needless to say our group of anglers was more than pleased to commemorate the moment with a round of malt beverages and plenty of smiles. Now we can get down to business. Rigging is top of the order in preparation for the fishing soon to come. As far as the crew is concerned we are ready to go; ready to do what we do best - get down to the business of catching, and producing the premium product unique to Royal Star. At this point it can't come soon enough.
Tim Ekstrom
12/11/10
Posted: 10:15:00
With fishing foremost on my mind I'll spare the philosophic waxing in favor of my beloved preference. The time has arrived. Epic weather accompanies the opening round as we approach day one near bursting with accumulated energy. I can report with complete confidence that the collective anticipation at this point represents plenty of trouble for whatever we find in the way of biting fish.
With any luck we'll burn off any excess in short order and get down to the business of catching trophy class tuna. Everything we can possibly muster is in order, time is on our side, Mother Nature has provided ideal conditions, and the rest is already said. The time for talk is over.
Tim Ekstrom
12/12/10
Posted: 10:05:00
I have to say I can't muster a single complaint following a very productive beginning that had anglers and crew hopping alike. For awhile it was almost good enough to require high gear - almost. But between this extraordinary group of anglers, and extraordinarily capable crew, the challenge was well in hand, and embraced as hope answered. Finally, after suffering a mind numbing drought the previous voyage, the pain of which was exacerbated by our colleagues throttling beautiful grade yellowfin tuna in a different ocean below, we got in the game.
We headed south this voyage with hunger pains to be satisfied only with the caliber of action that drives our desire to out perform. Nothing is better, nothing is sweeter to this crew and I than to be on the brink - to be at that point when we are holding the line with every skill applied and every action tuned to the challenge. Then, after answering the call and earning that satisfaction known only to those who enjoy the contentment that accompanies a day of hard work well completed, we seek it again.
Tomorrow is a new day. We are ready; perhaps even more so now that we are riding an adrenaline charge. Everything is in order, our load of bait is perfect, the weather is perfect - the recipe for success is ideal. We'll see how the fish feel about it tomorrow. Charter Master Bart Ryder takes the photo honors today while pulling on what tragically became a one that got away story. Parted spectra was the culprit but no real reason for the malfunction was determined. It is a great photo though. Rest assured that Bart caught his share regardless. It is not about the calamity. It is about the recovery. With Bart the recovery is always certain. Confidence is an unassailable attribute applied to fishing.
Posted: 08:15:00
Dawn broke today to reveal a sheet glass ocean surface reflecting the advancing myriad of lavender to inferno red hues with such intensity it invoked a moment of thought beyond the moment. It was akin to when the volume is increased leading up to the crescendo in a poignant opera or symphony mingling one's emotional and physical response to create a profound instant, or series of instant's, if one's passion is charmed. Early dawn sped toward sunrise again unleashing that infinite freight train of kinetic energy to illuminate our activity.
And as I offer this observation following the crack of dawn it is entirely possible that very few anglers, if any, even noticed. The pursuit of our quarry may have obscured the intensity of a portrait that really was beyond words. There are a lot of sunrises and sunsets out here that come to pass without recognition. None of them are ordinary, or unworthy of notice, but some reach a distinct plateau of brilliance that requires more than a second glance. They require a moment of reflection, and appreciation simply for the fact that we are here in it. This morning was one of those.
We also caught a few fish, including a fine 210 pound specimen for long time Royal Star veteran John Santaella who enjoys full photo honors today. Overall the day, introduced by the glorious dawn, was a satisfying success. From the morning action, to pursuing a few good spots on the outside, to finishing off with a long drift that plumb wore our anglers out, we wouldn't ask for better. Of course a few more big cows in the mix of 100 - 180's we are consistently catching would spice it up that much more, but there is a line we dare not cross understanding the pain of reprisal. This is very good fishing - and catching at the moment. We are appreciative as such.
The good weather is forecast to continue as we forge into day three getting warmed up to the idea of maintaining this momentum all the way through. As I mentioned yesterday no one is more pleased with the present set up than this crew and yours truly. Every fish that comes on board is recognized as, and handled like gold. The more the merrier. At this rate there will be plenty of holiday cheer spread among fortunate family and friends following this voyage. We are happy for it.
Tim Ekstrom
12/14/10
Posted: 15:21:00
We shifted gears today attempting to narrow the effort toward the biggest yellowfin available ignoring the pursuit of quantity for the sake of it. Not that there is anything wrong with the quantity approach if demand supports the effort. There are many variables to factor in the endless effort to build the ideal voyage for each individual group of anglers. It just so happens in this case that we have a group of seasoned veterans who are more satisfied with the opportunity to capture a giant than the pursuit of anything and everything to occupy the time.
So the big numbers realized the first two days ground to a halt though we still managed a fine score overall. The standout feature in our zone of choice was a much higher percentage of tuna 150 pounds and larger that captured our anglers interest most effectively. We were definitely firing on all cylinders, but were admittedly under tasked by the prior two day's standard. It felt like a good roll was established then came to a comparative standstill. That description is perhaps a little excessive, but given my bottomless reservoir of energy for challenge, fully understandable.
If you didn't know me and read this narrative I can easily see how you could think I am full of baloney. If you have fished with me over the past twenty six years in the world of San Diego sport fishing you know I am not. The best part of it is that such enthusiasm tends to be contagious. There is no magic in the fact that we have developed a history of maintaining the finest crew's in this business for eighteen years running. We lead by example. And love every minute of it.
Enough fawning over our exceptional standards however. My pride in this crew simply overwhelms me on most occasions. I have a very difficult time not recognizing the effort these young men apply to all our benefit. They earn every accolade I regularly offer. You have to see it to believe it. There is a marked difference in the complete Royal Star experience. I have said it many times - it is not about the boat, it is about the crew. They make or break a voyage.
Long time Royal Star veteran Warren Sakamoto, who graces the 2011 - 2012 Royal Star brochure cover with his 309 pound yellowfin taken at Isla Clarion in April 2009, does the honors again today with a 214 landed shortly after daylight. I'll let the photos speak for themselves. It was another magic sunrise though not nearly as striking in contrast as yesterday's masterpiece. It was a great beginning regardless as Warren got our day started with the correct foot forward. As always we can count on Warren to catch his share and then some. Enjoy the photos and think about giving Tracy a call to book a voyage with us if you haven't already done so. Availability is plentiful and now is a fantastic time to book for the spring, summer, or fall of 2011.
Tim Ekstrom
12/15/10
Posted: 07:12:00
The best morning yet by a long shot featuring a bite on the big baits reminiscent of so many years in this arena. A couple more deuces, a couple that were just shy, and a dozen more in the 120 - 160 pound class made for a few periods of hot and heavy action from the crack of dawn to just after sunrise. It was good fishing that then turned into a consistent scratch on the sardines well into the afternoon. Between the flat calm weather that continues, consistent fishing for big tuna that is rapidly accumulating into a capacity load, and this group of anglers who are making a fantastic time of it for everyone on board, we could not ask for better fortune.
Another long time Royal Star veteran from the "old school" drew upon distant memories and was rewarded with a 220 pound yellowfin tuna that steam rolled his bait right under the boat. Immediately following the crushing strike that left no doubt about the dimensions of the beast on the end of the line, further confirmation was provided in the form of a pulling devil that gave Bob Palatella all he was worth. Today's photo features Bob in the moment focused and determined to prevail.
Another day another tuna. We will finish tomorrow on what we hope to be a successful final note. Regardless of what transpires at this point however, we are good.
Tim
12/16/10
Posted: 13:26:00
It was one of those classic endings that followed the theme of this voyage to the letter. Another good morning hit had us earning our keep as the traditional mixed bag of 100 - 210 pound yellowfin, and everything in between, showed tremendous enthusiasm for a journey to San Diego on board Royal Star. Naturally we were more than happy to accommodate them. Then we reached that tipping point rapidly becoming less certain of our ability to accommodate the demand by space limitations in the tanks. As we slipped, shimmied, slid, and shoved perfectly dressed and cleaned to perfection tuna into their final positions the call was made to end it on a high note. Of course the fish, as so often occurs in these scenarios, began biting even better after the call was made.
Being plenty familiar with this program we did the easiest most rational thing that in reality is the most difficult act a fisherman must occasionally come to terms with - we stopped fishing. As in "lines out of the water boys, we're done." Leaving them biting can simultaneously be the most gratifying and painful decision a fishermen has to make knowing full well that there will be a thousand times or more down the road when he/she will dream for an opportunity to catch anything. Driving away from fish that want to bite is simply counter to our instinct. However it is far from counter to intuition. I have to admit that there isn't much big thinking in the act of departing because the tanks are full of fish. Though I suppose that is a notion relative to capacity for thought. The things that I have seen.
The final round was landed, the boys prepared for the challenge of creating space for them, and were rewarded with a pleasant surprise courtesy of a little strategic planning earlier in the trip. Suffice to say we hoarded a little room in one tank just in case. In they went, and off we went into the sunset following a scenic farewell revolution for old times sake.
Today's photo was almost an epic shot. As is it still strikes a chord of interest, perhaps even a little awe, as one is almost there with angler John Santaella while he pulls on his 210 pound yellowfin in the final circle. Seconds after snapping this off the cuff image I switched hats and stuck a gaff into the defeated beast camera dangling from one arm. Exhilarating.
Tim Ekstrom
12/17/10
Posted: 15:23:00
Not very often do I get the chance to describe a ride north as pleasant; relaxing even. The same calm seas and light winds that accompanied our entire fishing stint ushered us through the potential hell stretch we passed late in the day without so much as a bump. There was one roll that tragically led to the spillage of a half glass of fine wine to the great sorrow of the consumer. Many friends were on hand however to console the unfortunate and fill the void from additional fine vintages.
As one can likely determine there is not much stressing or straining going on here. I'll pass on some more thoughts on this whole adventure while traveling north over the next three days. Suffice to say with another near dream voyage to their credit I am beginning to believe that these anglers, with positive energy pouring forth in every way imaginable, manifest this spectacular good fortune. That old saying about making your own luck seems to apply.
Luck or otherwise we feel incredibly fortunate to be part of this adventure. Every ounce of arduous effort we invest in making this voyage a success is returned one hundred fold in the satisfaction these veteran fishermen express. They have a unique understanding of the entire spectrum of factors that contribute to an adventure that succeeds on this level. While luck in timing is recognized, the product, the service, the celestial cuisine prepared by Chef's Drew Rivera and Jeffery Grant, and the strategic itinerary supported by over fifty years of combined experienced between Captain Randy Toussaint and I, all create the professional atmosphere that allows these individuals to focus on their fishing vacation less any stress, consternation, or question as to what is happening and why.
This level of expectation drives our will to exceed the standard that much more. It is much more than simple competition with our colleagues out here on the water. I have said it plenty of times before: even a Chinese fire drill squad can produce a load of fish when the catching is easy and the fish are plentiful. It takes much more than that however to launch a voyage into the category of success. Poise and professionalism resulting from experience and strong leadership create an elevated standard recognized and expected by discerning individuals. Consistently delivering on this level of expectation is what we are all about. It is different on Royal Star. And we are pleased to offer our complete product to one and all.
Photo today features anglers Kevin Leong and Bart Ryder enjoying the early morning action amidst one of our several good dawn hour hits. Blissful is how I would describe it - the soft blanket of tropical morning warmth, light breeze buffeting flat calm seas, the vermillion glow of sunrise shining like a foundry against the face; all while pulling for what one is worth on trophy yellowfin tuna's emboldened by the life and death stakes of the competition. Man against beast in pure form. Primal instincts satisfied. Strip away all the modern conveniences and accoutrements and we are still the same. Fortunately, here we have the best of both worlds. Blissful. For a fisherman that is.
Tim Ekstrom
12/18/10
Posted: 15:26:00
It is always a pleasure to watch a group of triumphant anglers climb off Royal Star in Cabo San Lucas to enjoy the local sights and entertainment. Even better is the knowledge that they are avoiding what is almost an inevitable butt kicking that is the standard prominent feature of the three day uphill ride. No fishing, no joviality, no relaxing, no fun; just pounding, slamming, and teeth jarring free falls for up to seventy two hours of pure enjoyment.
Judging by the weather maps it appeared that we were well positioned to avoid the majority of the above stated. It even appeared that conditions would be calm. Not so much. For the second time in a month our amazingly accurate weather forecasters missed the mark. It was not calm today; especially into the afternoon and evening. It was not even close to rough or rugged either. Just the typical hobby horse, jerking and banging our way through short chop generated by 18 - 22 knots of north west wind. The main event appears to be up ahead.
That said I return to the original thought of how pleased I am when our anglers embrace the opportunity to avoid an unpleasant uphill run. While we all understand that cruddy weather is possible, even likely, on any given voyage, the occasional stretch of sloppy conditions rarely taints the result when fishing is successful. It can become a little tiresome; though it never seems to at thirty thousand feet on the two hour express ride home.
Photo today features Royal Star crewman Blake Wasano for whom our fondness, and respect, is tremendous. Blake is a rare kid nowadays whose core values of integrity, character, and respect are reflected in his impeccable work ethic. Blake is an invaluable member of the Royal Star team. As a four year veteran, Blake has accumulated a vast amount of experience that he utilizes in every aspect of his job performance. He is dependable, knowledgeable, and extremely proficient in rigging and catching fish. Above all however is Blake's magnanimous personality that brightens every day on board Royal Star. He is the undisputed ambassador welcoming anglers with his huge smile and sincere hospitality. Today's photo was a special occasion for Blake as a mid day lull, and plenty of encouragement from charter master Bart Ryder, provided him the opportunity to wrestle and triumph over this one hundred seventy pound class yellowfin tuna. What I didn't mention about Blake is that he is also strong as an ox - literally. The photo does a better job of describing Blake's Herculean strength than I ever could.
Tim Ekstrom
12/19/10
Posted: 08:09:00
It seems that I cried us up some darn fine weather after the initial insult provoked my unwillingness to accept ill treatment for this passage north. Once in a great while those moods arise when one just does not resign to enduring the abuse. Fortunately the occasion is rare, and realistically a useless expectation, but it occurs nevertheless. With enough time spent on the ocean that I have earned the right to express my opposing sentiments, I am occasionally obliged to do so - knowing full well that it falls on deaf ears.
As indifferent to our folly as the ocean really is, there are those rare times when I feel she gives a little back. Actually there are many times when she gives back in many forms, but primo weather is the sweetest of them all. Time at sea is magic in these conditions. And fortunately for this latest voyage, and of paramount significance on any and every other, the good weather window was wide open from the first day of fishing through the last. It is a feature that casts any ocean going experience into a completely different light. The sweeter, gentler side of the ocean's temperament is so alluring, offers such charm, it could tame the fiercest abomination. It hypnotizes to instill a sense of well being and security that beckons wayfarers to venture forth and beyond.
In a more practical sense it just makes the time out here that much more comfortable and pleasant. Everything is easier when executed from a stable platform. Making a successful catch of fish is always a good time. One landed is a triumph equal, regardless of sea conditions. But the catch made in primo conditions is the one regaled and fondly recalled from the armchair in years to come. The endurance of less than favorable conditions proves grit. The preference of calm conditions proves civility.
And so we enjoyed the majority of this day following a morning of pissing and moaning that paid off with a near flat calm afternoon. As such it appears that we will make our scheduled arrival time in San Diego on the 21st of 0800 at customs, then 0845 - 0900 at Fisherman's Landing. We have a huge load of beautiful tuna for any one who can make the time to come down and watch the process of unloading.
Otherwise a side note to pass on from Tracy is that one spot just became available on our January 8th - January 20th 12 day voyage that is a smoking deal poised to take advantage of the phenomenal tuna fishing occuring down below. Perhaps the inside banks will come to life again, perhaps not; either way we will be in position to make it happen in the twelve day time frame of this voyage. If you can make it give Tracy a call as soon as possible. As I mentioned this trip is a fantastic bargain that can not be ignored especially in light of the fishing presently occuring.
Photo today features anglers Mike Neal and John Santaella pulling on a couple of good ones during a mid day stop fishing on the outside. Look for tomorow's final report from this voyage in advance of our 0800 arrival.
Tim Ekstrom
12/20/10
Posted: 11:44:00
Definitely a holiday gift granted as grease calm dawn conditions obscured the horizon in one behemoth pastel magnificent yet foreboding; the calm before the storm. As the unbroken portrait of morning serenity gradually succumbed to the blood tone creeping, then overwhelming the tranquil blues and lavender from the east, it had that eerie feeling that always seems to accompany an advancing front. The threat develops, and palpable malevolence is transmitted in a fearsome black sky to the north and west. While ominous, and potentially disconcerting, the stark contrast, the august impression, always elicits a sense of awe in this narrator as I shrink to my real position of insignificance relative to the surrounding machinations.
Not as a mouse in a corner however terrorized and cowering overcome with despair and a sense of doom. Aware; with the senses tuned, mechanics double checked, boat ballasted for weather, and equipment secured we prepare and wait. Being party to this scenario on so many past occasions the stages are all too familiar. It is always just a matter of how it unfolds - how the boat works, and how extreme, if extreme at all, the sea conditions get. The weather man tells us one thing, but as we have all become familiar with over the past couple of weeks, the weather man can not always call local conditions reliably.
So we braced ourselves for the worst possibility, and were rewarded with a surprisingly good ride. The expected passage of the front, and backing northwest wind, did not occur - yet. Straight southerly winds and highly confused seas made for a relatively comfortable ride. I mentioned that the boat was ballasted well. It, but much more the sea state, made for a giant water bed type ride rolling and lolling lifting and declining into troughs perfectly sculpted for this class hull. There was plenty of movement, but gentle slipping and sliding buffeted by chugging combers on soft feet padding by. We'll take it, with gratitude.
Thus ended the final travel day that began in grease calm, like a huge lake, sea conditions and ended with twenty five to thirty knots of southerly winds with 3 - 6 foot confused seas and a west southwest swell 6 - 8 ft at 12 sec intervals. Quite the contrast that again served as a perfect demo for would be sea travelers. Always proceed with prudence and caution. For us, on this voyage anyway, it will all be over soon. On schedule for our 0800 arrival at San Diego Customs and Immigration we hope to be arriving at Fisherman's Landing by 0900. After pitching off this phenomenal catch of premium size and quality yellowfin tuna we will get the old girl spruced up, fueled up, and ready for the next twelve day adventure departing on the 26th.
In closing I want to extend our most sincere best wishes to everyone reading, and all Royal Star anglers, during this holiday season. We hope that all prosper in family, love, and life. We certainly do as a result of the tremendous support received from our loyal customers whom we covet and appreciate. Our success, our commitment, is your support in kind. As the best, most capable, most experienced team in long range sport fishing we will continue to advance the industry, and exceed our customers expectations for many years to come. Thank you.
Royal Star crew 2010
Tim Ekstrom
Randy Toussaint
Tracy Toussaaint
Brian Sims
Sean Bickle
Gregg Tanji
Steve Gregonis
Blake Wasano
Paul Caramayo
Drew Rivera
Jeffery Grant
Justin Jackson
p.s. Long Range veteran Bob Pound takes photo honors today leveraging one of his two jackpot winning "deuces" in like the old pro he is.
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