Posted: 08:31:00
We're back to our more familiar long range format departing on the annual Mako Nakamura six day charter in continuing primo conditions. Though we are far less accustomed to the 1 1/2 routine I do want to first express our gratitude to those who joined us, and second mention how pleased we are with the results from the prior two voyages. On both "mini" long range adventures not only did we clobber the bluefin tuna and other varieties, we sincerely appreciated the opportunity to introduce a number of new anglers to Royal Star and the overall long range experience. It was our pleasure, and one we look forward to repeating in the future.
Our focus now returns to longer range strategies with both offshore and Isla Guadalupe in our sights during this run. Foremost is the ideal, flat calm weather that calls for at least one or two days on the bluefin grounds before any alternate considerations. Perfect weather, consistent action on mixed grade and species of tunas, kelps representing excellent odds at finding good yellowtail and dorado - we couldn't ask for a better set up. And, as dismal and inconsistent as the whole offshore picture has been prior to this past eight days, we are not about to pass by any chance to settle the score in favor of the unknown.
Both Captain Toussaint and I are on this run looking forward to sharing the time with this group of anglers who have become far more than just customers over the past seventeen seasons. This annual voyage has a rock solid position in our history with so much incredible fishing to its credit I can hardly remember. I do know however that Randy and I traditionally teamed up on this run so we are back at in recognition, and appreciation of its continuing success. With any luck the fish will show a little recognition starting off the fishing portion in the correct tone.
8/15/11
Posted: 10:08:00
We made a day of it enjoying the flat calm and investing a wealth of time at the rail for a barely satisfying quantity of fish; just enough to keep us in the game; just enough to counter shame. There were a few good hits to be had, and I do mean a few, but we employed an amazingly effective strategy of avoiding the best of them by a quarter mile here, a half mile there, in favor of numerous spots around that exhibited that familiar bluefin reluctance to bite; one of those days I suppose.
For whatever reason we just couldn't seem to get our feet set early and it transmitted into our results, or lack thereof, the remainder of the morning. It doesn't happen too often around here, but, despite any level of experience in one's favor, it is a given that every day of fishing will not be kind. And I have to admit that while I am all too familiar with this fact, it does little to quell my aggravation when it is my turn to suffer. And suffer I did - nothing like driving around watching the show while the screens remain blank, the back deck is quiet, and the clock hands stand still.
But as usual the agony of defeat is reserved to the bridge where comparisons are constantly made and success is probably too often measured by what is happening elsewhere. On so many occasions the narrative from the deck is bright, light, and happy - as it should be; anglers are here to unwind and enjoy their vacation; fishing results are secondary. Meanwhile the narrative topside speaks a completely different tune - as it should; we are working; applying every possible thought and effort necessary to produce the best outcome possible from the picture in front of us. Fortunately for anglers below what happens on the bridge stays on the bridge - no need to share our lows; highs of course are a different story.
That said the day ended with plenty of good times and laughter below as everyone caught a few, relished the beautiful conditions, reminisced about voyages past, and anticipated events tomorrow. While we did get a start on things today, we definitely hope to fulfill the killer instinct a little more definitively tomorrow - and beyond.
8/16/11
Posted: 09:15:00
One of those love/hate experiences so typical of offshore fishing when signs of incredible abundance just twelve hours earlier are replaced by dust devils and tumble weeds the following morning. Though it is never thrilling to be on the receiving end of such twists at the same time it motivates the fishing instinct that both speaks of the obvious change, and the direction to go. In our case the only downside of the serenade was the direction from which it traveled - exactly opposite of the direction we needed to go; another one of those pivotal, voyage identifying, make or break decisions that create such comfort, tranquility, and ease on the bridge.
It really wasn't all that difficult though we would have loved to slide forward about twenty miles and administer some justice to those wily bluefin. I mentioned the love/hate element to the pursuit above. The truth of it, especially with time at hand, is that such transformations are so stark in their manifestation that one can't help but be amazed. It's the quintessential example of the world turning before our very eyes.
And when these built in changes occur offshore there is nothing better than a collective effort to get relocated. Everyone throws in their two sense, forms a plan, spreads out, and sets to looking. Southerly was our direction; south and east covering hundreds of combined miles in near grease calm conditions that made a beautiful day of it regardless of our results. Many subtleties were obvious in the mild seas among them little spots of what we call "puddlers" and "chippers", and far more prominent spots of yellowfin tuna jumpers.
Although they didn't add up to a whole lot, they did provide a wealth of morning action. For quite awhile we rolled from spot to spot picking off a handful here and a handful there staying busy and regularly putting fish on board. Most important was the inspirational call of Hookup! at almost every spot that sent anglers charging forth to join the fray in a blur of flying baits and lines.
The action fit the stereotype offshore albacore style fishing to the letter; fast and furious, a blur of rods, lines, elbows, and feet as anglers engaged in the familiar dance astern attempting to remain on top of the wild, racing tuna traversing a living maze of lines. With the size tuna we were catching in particular (12 - 20#) the excitement out back was compounded tenfold. No matter how good an angler does it, no matter how much experience one boasts, a hot, fifteen pound yellowfin, on any size line - but especially the short topshot backed by spectra, makes for a wild time of it. Multiplied by eight, ten, or a dozen it can get downright crazy - for about three minutes. Then the smoke clears, the last few come aboard, we re-marshal our forces, and go again.
By about mid day it was all over as we chugged toward a change of scenery and pace. Something a little more consistent, a little less frantic, and a lot more fulfilling will fit the bill to perfection. And as the unyielding perfectionist Captain Toussaint assumes command tomorrow, we'll see how the fish fare - though we've seen it plenty before; they can run, but they can't hide.
Posted: 13:31:00
Boy I laid it out to perfection in yesterday's report - less frantic, more consistent, and more fulfilling, all these descriptions fit the fishing today to the letter. The change of pace was complimented by stunning contrast in scenery as well with the ocean displaying a staggering abundance of life in the form of miles of dolphins, whales, herds of sea lions, and, most important to our objective, miles and miles of 15 - 22# yellowtail. Fortunately the majority of the mammals were focused on sustenance apart from our efforts but naturally a few pinnipeds latched on to irritate with their thievery. It comes with the territory, and is tolerable in minor percentages such as today.
A nice steady pace was the theme; perfect even by our standards as one to five scrappy yellows seemed to remain hooked the majority of the morning aside from the occasional rush when a wave of ten or fifteen would come through. At this pace they accumulated well while providing anglers the opportunity to switch it up tying different methods to draw a strike and employ the full compliment of gear they brought for this exact purpose. Surface irons on the bow, fly lined baits all around, one to four ounce sliding sinkers, and/or yo-yo jigs were all effective at times. Honestly the yo-yo jigs were probably most consistently effective but the laborious requirement of furiously winding again and again sapped enthusiasm for the method beyond the first hour. And, it really didn't matter as there were plenty of bites to be had otherwise.
After the noon hour however it was a different story. The abundance of yellowtail we took advantage of early on moved out, down, or up leaving all the additional life behind mopping up an almost unbelievable amount of bait that seemed to multiply in spite of every critter out there shamelessly gorging. Beyond noon we poked, kicked, and scratched our way along finally throwing in the towel in increasing wind and seas after tea time. The overall score was just enough to fully satisfy and initiate the final leg of travel to the grand destination - we hope.
The big island west has been a difficult prospect at best during the past week to ten days. A few here, and a few there would best describe the picture with the real quantity of tuna no showing in the shallows now for quite some time. It has been dismal and difficult. So much so that we are under no illusions about the prospects. However we have three things in our favor that can not be overlooked: one is our indefatigable optimism inherent in all true fishermen, two is our knowledge of change in ocean conditions and how fast they often occur, three is the Captain Toussaint factor never to be ignored - the man's timing and uncanny fish sense could wring rain from a sunny Sahara sky in the middle of summer. This will be a true test. I'm already a believer but this time the Shaman really needs to show up for the party.
But, with the quantity goal mostly fulfilled, time to make the crossing, and a pressing need to place our anglers in position to target an exceptional catch, we are all in. Even if the pattern holds, and we wind up with only a few trophy class Guadalupe tuna, it is the right thing to do. We've made a lot from a little many times in the past. Don't be surprised if we do it again.
On the photo front I have been floundering taking perhaps the worst shots of my career during the past couple of days. The perfectionist in me just won't allow anything less than good to grace this narrative. I'm hoping it will come around tomorrow. I'll try shutting one eye or something.
Posted: 10:15:00
And if any readers thought my comments yesterday about Captain Toussaint's ability to make it happen were in jest take special note of this episode of "Toussaint's Tales". As we rolled into Guadalupe our expectations were in line with the reality of this island during the past eight or ten days - not much fish showing; and what few fish there were had to be divided with the loathsome Guadalupe denizens - Great White Sharks. It has been a disappointing prospect on the outside at best with opportunities at the 60 - 90# Guadalupe yellowfin few and far between. Enter Captain Toussaint.
Beautiful, glassy conditions greeted our arrival as well as an obvious, very favorable condition change we traditionally seek in the zone Capt. Randy selected. It looked good. He knew it, and I knew it, but we reserved our comments to that only - that it looked good. Regardless it had that distinct feel that something had changed. I've spoken of it before. Whether it is instinctual, or comes naturally after spending so much time on the water, the fact is that there is a palpable sense to "fishy" changes in conditions, or just simply areas holding fish. I couldn't explain how it feels, or why, but I know that any genuine fisherman reading this is keenly aware of the condition.
So Capt. Toussaint sets the anchor, we settle back, and the waiting game typical of this fishery begins. And, true to Toussaint form, the conspicuously absent tuna over the past few weeks make a good showing within half an hour. For us on the bridge it was particularly noteworthy because the sonar tells no lies - there was a real deal amount of fish around us that triggered youthful enthusiasm. For anglers on deck the surface showing of 60 - 100# yellowfin tuna wrecking the tranquil sea surface in big blowouts and flying leaps the excitement level pegged the meter - in fact it blew the top right off.
Nothing serves to make anglers fish for their life like the sight of big tuna sailing from the depths in spectacular leaps mere yards away. Everyone at the rail is tuned in, in the zone, directing laser like focus to the challenge at hand. And with this kind of dedication, and plenty of fish to be had, it usually doesn't take long; this time it didn't either. It began slowly - one, then another, then two - then gained momentum and had us hopping for a couple of hours as the bigger fish steadily trickled on board. The best of it was over after a couple of hours, and it was far from material of legends, but I have exalted the relativity of success much before: fifteen 60 - 85# Guadalupe yellowfin in a couple of hours, from a total of about twenty five or thirty opportunities, was very good fishing; had it lasted longer it would have been a banner day. And wouldn't know it - no sharks; none - classic Toussaint.
Going back to the success being relative however it was a banner morning from our perspective. Actually from any perspective keeping in mind the fact that the majority of the fish were taken on 40#, short fluorocarbon top shots. There were bites to be had for those practicing patience and putting in their time. After the morning rush hour, or two hours in this case, fishing slowed and finally stopped in the afternoon. We poked and prodded in a few different zones but it was more than obvious that time of day was the key factor in today's success. That of course and Captain Toussaint's legendary ability to be in the right place at the right time and make the most of the opportunity. All I can say to this effect is that I am glad he is on our team. Man that guy is good.
Photo today features long time Royal Star veteran and master angler Tom Lawrence who rightly graces the narrative as the one who got us started with the first 60# class Guadalupe yellowfin of the morning. Brawny Blake Wasano does the lifting while a jubilant Tom revels in his victory. Look for tomorrow's final fishing report from the offshore grounds. It appears that the whole offshore picture is back on track with good scores coming from several locations. That however is a story for another day - perhaps tomorrow.
Tim Ekstrom
8/19/11
Posted: 10:14:00
It never hurts to approach a day of fishing with confidence instilled by a fine catch in hatch. In our case such was true, but we were definitely in the market for at least a little bit more. The first couple of days offshore were okay, but nothing more than that; we still had a hankering to get in on some of the far better than okay fishing that has been happening on the outside for the past couple of days. We were close to full satisfaction with a good catch featuring the coveted big three: quality, sufficient quantity, and variety; both in species landed and scenic variation.
To close the voyage I resumed command as the Master turned over the helm to allow me a final shot at redemption. Almost unbelievably I had managed to shut down the whole southern fleet on round one so, at the risk of banishment from my brethren, I stepped up to see if the winds of change had freshened. And, following a dandy morning for 85 bluefin, 60 fat, offshore yellowfin, and a sole dorado I am pleased to report that my status of worthy among journeymen has been reinstated. We had a great finish; exactly what we had hoped for ending the voyage on a peak note.
It was so good in fact that we departed in the face of wide open biting fish preferring to share the wealth with one of our colleagues from the local fleet rather than succumb to gluttony. There is a gratification unlike any other watching a boat full of incoming anglers slide up the downwind side with rods going off and exclamations of exuberance splitting the air. With a quick nod and a wave we maneuvered away satisfied that we had caught our share then shared the wealth with a boat load of new friends. I love that, and never miss the opportunity when it arises.
To put a final note of success on the day very good offshore working weather, not grease calm but just right, made it that much better. Between eye balling small spots of jumpers and making for a relaxing, comfortable ride up the line we could not have asked for more. We departed on a northerly heading fat and happy basking in the satisfaction of our job well done. And this tremendous group of anglers, who take expressing good will and having fun to new heights, were the main component of our success. Their drive to make a great catch and create a warm atmosphere while doing so reflected in every stop, every aspect of this voyage. It is our most sincere pleasure to work with and share in such enthusiasm. Our gratitude to Mako Nakamura and this entire group of stellar individuals. We look forward to next year and many beyond.
Look for today's photo a little later as I will hold off and post at full resolution from the home front. Capt. Brian "Gerbie" Sims now takes the helm working his unique mastery for the annual Mitch Otera group. With six days to get the job done and a set up like we haven't seen in long time the potential for success is as good as one can imagine. In fact, it is hard to step back as I can't stand the thought of missing even one day of good fishing. Duty calls however and Capt. Sims is always up to the task. Look for Brian's reports to continue and photos later. I'm out.
Tim Ekstrom
08/19/11
Posted: 11:32:00
As promised here are a few photos featuring Guadalupe highlights from 8/18; the first two photos feature long time Royal Star veteran Ron Hobson and his 65# class yellowfin at the moment of gaff, and in the classic vanquished position. The second photo features another Royal Star living legend Jim Taoka, with crewman Blake Wasano, sporting a rarely captured grin for the camera. As many years as I have tried I finally offered a remark quick enough to trigger Jim’s wit beyond his control. He cracked the smallest hint of a smile and I pounced on the opportunity. Look for tomorrow’s report with a few more photos at full res.
Tim Ekstrom
8/20/11
Posted: 19:42:00
Another day comes and goes far smoother than the built up nightmare prospect of seven big long rangers turning around today suggested. Of course there was some momentary congestion in the dreaded parking lot, but plenty of friendly exchange between outgoing and incoming anglers sharing tales of success, and tips fresh from the scene, outweighed all the little nuisances associated with arriving and boarding long range vessels of choice. And, most certainly the sight of fantastic catches being unloaded and whisked off to waiting friends, family, and processors added fuel to the enthusiasm among anglers waiting to board. As a whole I would offer that practice makes perfect. And in the long range fleet there is plenty of practice working together on days like these; and it definitely shows.
The whole scene at the top of the dock was actually reminiscent of a few years back. Between the fantastic fishing taking place, an inspirational set up unfolding offshore and at the coastal islands, and plenty of smooth summer weather finally consistent in the forecast there is a sense of relief among all of us. It feels like the strangle hold we have been trying to wrest ourselves from is beginning to break. Perhaps not so much from the economic angle, but good fishing serves to medicate our psyche more than one can imagine. It shouldn’t be so surprising – our love of fishing was the original inspiration, and is the reason why we are still here. Participating in a wide open bite, when the tuna are plowing through the corner, anglers are getting instant bites, and fish are coming over the rail in droves is the apex of our time offshore. Everything else is simply a waiting game; waiting, plotting, and scheming toward creating the next opportunity to get ‘em – it never gets old.
On the processing end I can’t say enough about the overall efficiency down at our venue Fisherman’s Processing. With an experienced team of twenty five individuals working the processing line I likened the image to that of a lawn mower at the height of production this morning. I was placing whole fish on the table at one point and as fast as I could reach for another they were perfectly filleted then sent down the line for trimming and vacuum packaging. The finished product was coming off the line at a speed that absolutely could not be faster or more efficient. Co-Owner and manager Sean Sebring has done an incredible job of both assembling a fantastic team of dedicated professionals, and organizing the production to a level unmatched in quality and efficiency.
And, just so everyone considering using our same day processing understands, the time of same day turn around on your product depends on a variety of factors – the most important being the amount of product to be filleted in the shop in advance of your arrival. There are many occasions, in fact most, when anglers are on the road in an hour or two after their fish arrive at the plant – sometimes even less. But a reasonable expectation of two to as much as four hours, if there is a large amount of product in the shop from other vessels that precede your arrival, will prepare customers choosing our same day service accordingly – four hours being the maximum. Today’s return was an excellent example. Fish from Royal Star, as the third boat in, arrived at Fisherman’s Processing at 0830. We processed twelve same day orders, with everyone out the door and on their way by 1115. That is about as typical a scenario as I can provide. There are many times when the turn time is far less, but our ultimate goal, even on the days we are slammed, is to have all of our same day customers on their way by 1200.
One last note about Fisherman’s Processing I am very excited to share is the pending arrival of our first run of premium quality canned yellowfin tuna, directly from the long range fleet. We have been working to this end for some time and soon will be proud to offer once cooked, hand packed in 8 ˝ oz. cans, premium grade yellowfin tuna in olive oil and spring water to all Fisherman’s Processing customers. It is another option we are pleased to offer that will allow anglers to have their long range yellowfin tuna canned at $3.00 per pound. Anglers canning their tuna will receive one, 8 ˝ oz. can/per pound, which is a fantastic value for the premium grade of the product. Comparable “gourmet” canned product in high end markets typically retails for $5.50 to $7.00 per can. Anglers choosing to have their tuna canned by Fisherman’s Processing receive actual tuna landed on San Diego long range vessels. The satisfaction of enjoying and sharing your catch with families and friends in vacuum packaged fillets, delicious smoked and jerky product, and now premium quality “gourmet” cans is entirely unique to Fisherman’s Processing. We are absolutely determined to provide our customers with the finest service, finest processing facility, and most complete choice of processing options available. The addition of canning to our extensive list of options completes one more of our many goals to best serve all returning long range anglers.
To shift gears and close for the day Capt. Sims piloted Royal Star from Fisherman’s Landing at 1045 ready to get back to fishing with the annual Mitch Otera group on board. Six days to get the job done, a wealth of fishing options, good weather to begin with, and motivation off the charts is a harbinger of much good to come. Look for Capt. Sims’ reports to commence tomorrow and continue throughout the upcoming week. Meanwhile Captain Toussaint and I will be holding down the fort shore side tending to the processing shop and the office while perhaps slipping in a little R and R.
Photos for the day feature crewman Steve Gregonis with a classic long range fishing moment gone wrong, and longtime Royal Star veteran Gary Edwards with crewman Blake Wasano and Gary’s 67 pound Guadalupe yellowfin. In the case of crewman Steve Gregonis he made the most of the moment when a smaller class reel broke from the rod leaving only the frame behind. While this is uncommon at best it does happen every once in a while. The solution, grabbing another reel, detaching the broken frame, then splicing the line and attaching the replacement to the rod, was successfully executed after Steve passed the rod and detached reel back and forth under the anchor line no less than ten times. Unfortunately, after all the fuss, and a great show of determination and experience by Steve, the fish broke the line and escaped. It was valiant effort though, and one that was sincerely appreciated by defeated, but satisfied with the effort angler Jeff Schmoll.
Posted: 08:10:00
Today we fished for yellows on the inside. After getting things located, we enjoyed pretty good fishing on 16 - 25 # fish. All methods were working from the surface to the bottom and both live bait and jigs. This was especially enjoyable because the fish were in an area out of the wind and weather. We will be in a different area for tomorrow.
Elaine we miss you this year, today was your kind of fishing.
Brian
08/21/11
Posted: 09:11:00
We did a fine job today of being close to the right schools without finding one. We did manage to scratch at the yellowfin and mixed in a few flats for color. Even though the big hit eluded us today, our spirits are not dampened as this seasoned group of anglers has been here before. With a little more wind forecast we are changing gears for tomorrows fishing, still looking for some action before we go trophy hunting.
Posted: 13:54:00
The Weather was flat calm. The sun was shining. The scenery was stunning. The quality of the yellowfin tuna was outstanding at 60 - 110#. We all enjoyed the day and are hoping for a repeat performance.
Otera Charter regular and extraordinary angler Greg Poldy gets the honors today with an 80# tuna He whipped on a Talica 10 and 30# fluorocarbon.
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