“After an uneventful day traveling down in blustery weather,” wrote Royal Star skipper Randy Toussaint May 29, “we arrived to Alijos this morning to start off our 2011 Summer season. After a few anchor jobs that produced a handful of 20-pound yellows and one small tuna, we got onto a spot that produced a great afternoon bite on quality 30 to 45-pound yellows. By dark we had 100 of these beautiful fish chilling down in our RSW tank. The yoyo and butterfly jigs accounted for a good portion of the bites with the two to four-oz. slider rigs producing well also.

“We didn't see much sign of tuna today but the water is prime for this time of year, hopefully our weather comes down a bit and we can get them located in the next few days. Willy Cloyes shows off a 45-pound yellow in today's shot.”



Summer Fishing Trip Date Is Close

Bill Roecker and Paul Sweeney are working out the final details on the dates of their first fishing trip of 2011. An announcement of the dates and the boat for the trip will be made here in the next day or two. The trip will be five or six days in length, so fishing at Alijos Rocks or Guadalupe Island will be a possibility, offering a shot at larger tuna as well as albacore and yellowtail.

American Angler skipper Sam Patella called his wife, office manager Lori Patella Sunday morning to say the boat had just caught two albacore of 15 to 18 pounds at 239 miles from San Diego, on the way to destinations south. The fish were likely trolled, but that information and more should be forthcoming later this evening.

Other boats that left yesterday include the Intrepid, Qualifier 105 Red Rooster III and Royal Star. Reports from them will also begin to come in soon.



Mossbacks Rock And Roll

The Purfield’s Pro Tackle trip with chartermaster Dick Schaffer and 29 other anglers docked at Pt. Loma Sportfishing May 29, when skipper Jeff DeBuys tied up after eight days.

“We had limits of yellowtail and wind,” quipped DeBuys.

“The yellowtail quality was over the top,” noted Schaffer. “The 40 to 50-pounders were common. They bit on yoyo iron, big mackerel and sardines. The best of it was on the bank, in the mornings. The bite was very good but slow to build.”

A ten-minute fight scored the best yellowtail ever for Randy Benner of Culver City, who won first place for his 46-pounder. He also had one that weighed 44.8 pounds. He said the big one came on a green and yellow Salas 6X jig, tied to 50-pound Izorline. He fished with an Avet HX reel and a Seeker CJBF 70 H rod.

Bob Hager of Tumwater, WA (home of Olympia Beer) won second place for a 43.6-pound yellow. Mike Golden of Bayside used a Spanish mackerel to bait his third-place winning 42.6-pound tusker yellowtail.

Big Al Scow’s annual “Fisherman’s Pals & Gals” trip returned to Fisherman’s Landing May 28 after a 15-day Excel trip with 27 anglers and skipper Justin Fleck at the helm. The trip found nine tuna over 200 pounds at the Hurricane Bank, and scored limits of wahoo.

“The wahoo weren’t as bad this time as they were last trip,” said Justin to dock reporter Bill Roecker. “They weren’t biting everyone off all the time. The tuna fishing was better.”

Jan Howard of Mission Viejo, who caught two cows, agreed. She wasn’t in the jackpot.

“The tuna rolled around in the mornings,” she said. “The last three days were hot for tuna.”

Luan Pham of Garden Grove won first place for a 252-pound yellowfin tuna. It bit on a flying fish under the kite. He said he used a 10-0 Mustad 7691 hook, 130-pound Line One spectra, a Tiagra 50 reel and a Super Seeker 6364 XXXH rod.


“That’s my first self-wrapped rod,” he remarked. “I got him in 30 minutes.”

Jim Carlisle of Long Beach won second place for a 217-pounder, and also had a 202-pound tuna. He said he fished with sardines and mackerel and got one cow with each. He used 8/0 Eagle Claw hooks and balloons for bobbers. He fished with 130-pound Izorline spectra on a Penn 50 T reel modified by Cal Sheets and a Calstar 755 XXH rod.

Gary Gillingham of Accurate won third place for a 206-pounder. He got that one with a sardine on a 6/0 Owner Offshore hook, 130-pound Seaguar Premier fluorocarbon, 130-pound Line One spectra, an Accurate ATD 30 reel and a Calstar 770 XXXH rod.

Jan Howard of Mission Viejo caught two cows that weighed 249 and 217 pounds. She fished a puffer under a balloon and a flying fish under the kite to get them. Her Mustad hooks were a 10/0 offset J hook and an 8/0 Demon. She fished with 130-Big Game line on a Penn 50 reel by Sheets and a Calstar 6455 XXH rod.

The bigger one fought for three hours.

“It was the meanest fish I ever pulled on,” she said. “I also pulled for two hours on a 160-pounder. That’s five hours in one day on two fish!”

Ted Kamenecka of Palm Beach Gardens, FL bagged a 246-pound non-eligible tuna. It fought for two hours, he said, and was his best fish ever. He used a 6/0 ringed Gorilla hook on 130-pound pink Yo-Zuri fluorocarbon, 130-pound Line One spectra on an Accurate 50 W reel and a Super Seeker 6364 XXXXH rail rod to take his best fish in two hours.

Roland Reesby of San Clemente spent two hours one day pulling on a 204-pounder. It bit on a flying fish under the kite, on a 12/0 Mustad offset hook tied to a Basil topshot of 130-pound Momoi. He used 130-pound Izorline spectra on a Tiagra 50 W reel and a Calstar 755 XH rod.

Chris Perez of Westchester caught a 201-pound yellowfin tuna after a scrap of an hour and a half. His best tuna ate a chunk on an Owner 8/0 ringed Super Mutu hook tied to 130-pound Blackwater fluorocarbon and 130-pound Izorline spectra on an Accurate ATD 30 reel and a Super Seeker 2 x 4 rod.

There was one other three-hour tuna fight that occurred when Curt Wiesenhutter’s 40-pound rig hooked a 170-pound tuna at night. The fish stayed on during an anchor move by the boat, and deckhand Derek Waldman played a big role in landing the tuna, a big fish on light line.

The trip concluded Excel’s big fish season. Her summer trips will begin in about a week.



Alijos Wind Makes Tough Fishing

“Nothing much has changed out here,” reported Independence May 26, “as the wind is still howling, and the seas are choppy. We awoke to some excellent yellowtail fishing at the rocks this morning, as many got their personal best this trip. Still no sign of tuna, so at 1300 hours we are headed up the line to gain some altitude.”

“Today’s report is pretty much like the last few,” said the report from Independence May 25, “except the yellows today were all jumbo, premiums. We had good fishing on these until about 1030, and then we looked hard for some tuna, but only came up with two for our efforts. There is very little sign of tuna here right now. We are going to give this one more try tomorrow, and then make a move up the line. The weather came down a notch, but is still breezy.”



Unusual Tripletail

I wasn’t aware that the tripletail, a sometimes highly-sought Atlantic species, existed in the Pacific, until Paul Sweeney got a photo of one temporarily in the tanks of the Excel. Anglers in the Atlantic think this fish is excellent eating and a good fighter. Here’s his picture of the first specimen of Lobotes pacificus I’ve ever seen. Sweeney said this little one weighed a pound or two, and was released unharmed.

Famous Fishing Quotes

These are from Frank Jig’s (The Jig HQ .com) Facebook page:

"Nothing makes a fish bigger than almost being caught." ~Author Unknown

"My biggest worry is that my wife (when I'm dead) will sell my fishing gear for what I said I paid for it." ~Koos Brandt

“We finished up our trip last night,” wrote Excel skipper Justin Fleck May 24, “and are now on our way home.


"Not only was tuna fishing again good in the morning, but the afternoon was steady as well. The final well in the center was topped off at dark so we broke down gear and called it a trip. Big fish for the day were Roland Reesby with a 203, his first cow, Gary Gillingham of Accurate Reels with a 206 pounder, and Jim Carlisle boated his second cow of the trip at 217 pounds. All three fish were caught just before dark. What a great trip! There were tons of wahoo and lots of big tuna for everyone.”



Day At The Rocks

“Good evening from the Independence,” said the report for May 24. “Today was pretty much like yesterday, as we had good fishing for yellowtail, but another no-show for the tuna. We did catch one lonesome tuna. Conditions were not the best, as the wind is really blowing out here. We are going to give this another try tomorrow. We hope the wind dies, and the fishing picks up.”



Yellowtail Wakeup Call

A great fish count of 103 yellowtail for 29 anglers was scored by a Seaforth boat yesterday, likely signaling the start of the long-awaited summer inshore bite.

The San Diego, running a ¾ day trip with skipper Ryan Bostian, fished at the Rockpile for 16 to 22 pound yellowtail, reported landing manager John Yamate, who noted that fishing was “…good for a small handful of jig fishermen, but most fished with bait.”

The bite went on most of the time the boat remained on location. The water temperatures recently have been 63 to 65 degrees, said Yamate.

Seaforth wasn’t the only landing to cash in on the bonanza. H&M counterperson Martha said the Malihini fished at the Coronados yesterday on ¾ day trip, scoring 20 ‘tails by 11 in the morning, and ended up with 26 yellows for seven anglers.

“The weather was beautiful, and the fish, up to 25 pounds, bit on bait. The skipper was Clay Williams. Today, the boat left with 48 people,” said Martha to dock reporter Bill Roecker.

Guy L. Halpain of Granite Hills, co-owner of the 105-foot Red Rooster III long range sportfisher with his wife Linda Palm, has died. He had been struggling with some heart problems for several years, but cancer was the cause of death, according to his longtime wife and partner Linda Palm-Halpain.

With a great many local friends, Guy was well-known to anglers on the Rooster, and Linda said he had been familiar with the workings of the boat since it was launched. He had many skills, including carpentry, mechanics and roping. He was the proud owner of a 1940 Willys coupe, one of the last remaining steel-bodied versions of that model, very popular in the 60s and 70s as a drag racing “gasser.”

Born in Indio on December 20, 1938, Halpain was also a highly skilled pool player. He often met the boat at the dock on its return from fishing, to talk with anglers aboard about how they enjoyed the trip and the boat.

According to the Red Rooster III office and Christina Braaten, there will be a memorial service for Guy on Friday, June 3rd at the El Cajon Mortuary at 2 PM. The address is 684 South Mollison Avenue, El Cajon, CA 92020 (619) 440-8033. The cross streets are East Washington & South Mollison Ave.

“After a long annual maintenance session we are out on our first trip of the year,” said the report from Independence May 21. “I must say the boat is in the best shape ever, as we installed two new John Deere generators, and did countless cosmetic upgrades to make things even more enjoyable for our passengers. The crew is just outstanding this year. So here we go, we departed on the Purfield's Pro Tackle eight-day trip yesterday with a nice supply of sardines, and a boatload of eager fisherman. The weather is ok, and we have high hopes for finding something today in our travels. We should be down to The Rocks in the morning to begin our trip."

The next day’s report said: “I can say for sure that the reality is they will be necessary on any of our 5 to 7 day trips starting with trip 11 on 7/23/11. I would also highly recommend having a passport on any of the long trips as well, we have had times in the past when a medical emergency has put us in at the nearest Mexican port for assistance and a passport is a must in that type of scenario. Thank you for understanding this need in the future and lets all hope for good conditions and lots of fish."

On May 23, the report noted, “Here is what we know so far. Yesterday we covered lots of good country with good conditions for no fish and no sign of fish. Today we arrived around 1100 hours, and had good fishing for yellowtail, and poor sign of tuna. The weather is up, and we are going to give it another try for tomorrow.”



Passport Costs

This is the latest from Celia Condit of the Searcher (posted May 21), and should answer some of the questions that have surfaced recently, after the announcement that Guadalupe Island will open this year to anglers with passports:

“If you are faced with applying for a passport, you might consider the passport card. It's less expensive and sufficient for our Guadalupe Island trips. It is not accepted for air travel, however.

“Thanks to a sharp-minded customer (Michael Townes) for that one!”

The new passport rulings have caused at least one owner-operator to revamp his boat’s fishing schedule for the summer. Mike Keating of the Spirit of Adventure said he couldn’t make four-day trips to the island with a half-day stop included, so he would adjust his planned trips.

Yellowtail Derby Winner

First results come from organizer John Campbell, sent Monday night at 10:30 PM:

Tom Keus caught a 39.5-pound California yellowtail to beat second place by 9 pounds.

“The past couple of days have been busy for us down here on the bank,” observed Excel skipper Justin Fleck May 22.


“Tuna fishing remains steady throughout the morning and then the wahoo take over for the afternoon. Most of the tuna are coming on board before daylight. Big fish for the past two days were caught by Chris Perez, with a 201-pounder, Luan Pham, with his personal best at 252, and Jan Howard boated her second cow of the trip at 249 pounds. There have also been several in the 180 to 195-pound range.”



‘Gun Goes Codding

On the way home from a rockfishing trip aboard the Shogun May 22, Bruce Smith told of a new combo jig:

“Today I stumbled across a new rock fish jig; at least it's new to me. Some will say it's just a knockoff of another more popular and much more expensive cod jig, but it has differences. First off, I want to give credit where credit is due, hopefully I have the story straight. Aaron Chung had one tied to his line. I said that looks great. Sometimes when you see something or a new kind of lure you just know it will work, trust me, this only happens about 1% of the time when looking at new stuff. Anyhow, Aaron saw that I was interested and gave me one to try out.

“I promptly got the little Accurate out put it on a Seeker SHS 70L Hercules and made a few drops. The jig worked really good. Then I inquired with Aaron again on the name of this jig and it's origin. He said it came off of Alan Chin's boat the TigerFish from up Half Moon Bay way, Alan helped out with the design. Then I asked if it had a name. He told me it's called the Ho D or something like that. Well that made a lot of sense to me, as I know that Ho D is a fantastic fisherman from the bay area that also rides Alan's TigerFish.

“The jig sinks fast, has the two free swinging single hooks (so the reds don't spin off), and doesn't hang up on the bottom since the hook are arranged a third of the way up the jig instead of hanging off the tail end. Today this jig, no lie, caught 3 to 1 over any other technique that was being fished. Use 65-pound spectra to a short, 5-foot piece of 30-pound mono and then attach the jig. The lings eat it as well as the reds, chuckleheads and boscos.”

"I hope I don't get into too much trouble for revealing this really productive rockfish jig, The Ho D!"

“Well, after finally getting located yesterday,” noted the report from American Angler May 20, “I thought today's pace would be upbeat, but still the group had to work for every fish, and if I may make a comment, the grade of this fish is awesome.

“We had a couple of standouts and took some time to have ourselves a little Calico Catch & Release party today as well.

“We are going to move up tonight and start the journey home and as of right now, this is the best weather of the trip, but I'm not counting my chickens yet.”



Summing It Up

Tim Ekstrom has finished his last tagging trip and is getting Royal Star ready for the summer fishing season of shorter trips and variety fishing for albacore, bluefin, yellowtail and other summer species. Here’s what he had to say May 20:

“A flawless arrival yesterday evening prefaced what will be a productive week ahead as we make final preparations to Royal Star for the big season that begins next Friday. Before moving on to our traditional voyages however I want to make final mention of the Revillagigedo tagging project that has been so instrumental and transformational since 2006. Eleven voyages total were made to the Revilla reserve where for the first time ever anglers ventured long range voyages for the sole purpose of science and research donating thousands of specimens to this tagging study. Other than a handful or two of anglers who were well ahead of the traditional perspective that everything needed to be taken in order to validate the success of any given voyage, it required a few trips for the idea to gain momentum. The overwhelming success, and countless stories of ecstatic anglers returning with tales unlike anything previously known, compelled more anglers to experience the process first hand. Without fail everyone who did came away from these voyages with a changed perspective of what is possible in the way of landing, handling, and releasing large yellowfin tuna.

“A tremendous amount of dedicated effort was applied to the idea by Royal Star crewmen as we worked tirelessly to advance and improve our knowledge and methods of effectively tagging large yellowfin tuna. In this respect it can be safely stated that no other crew presently possesses the unique skill set necessary to efficiently meet such a challenge. This said I want all Revillagigedo tagging participants, and anyone interested in such unique opportunities, to know that the end of this project does not close the door on future tagging opportunities on Royal Star. While there is nothing presently tangible, there are talks in progress, and several ideas in the works to continue our involvement in yellowfin tuna tagging studies in some form.

“We will certainly keep one and all updated on any opportunities as they come to be. In the meantime I do wish to express my sincere gratitude to both the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission and Mexico’s Instituto Nacional de Pesca for allowing us the one of a kind opportunity to join the scientific community and combine our resources and efforts to the benefit of advancing management strategies of the yellowfin tuna resource in the Eastern Tropical Pacific Ocean. Data, details, and conclusions from this project are forthcoming as lead scientists Kurt Schaefer, Dan Fuller, and Gabriel Aldana gather and process information from tags that come in to their laboratories at almost a daily rate.

“Updates will continue throughout the upcoming week as I still have a wealth of photos, and a few more stories to share. Today’s photo features angler James Moran with a “stock” 140 who made the journey all the way from Australia to join us on the final Revilla tagging voyage. This being James’ first voyage targeting large yellowfin tuna, he tagged and released a ‘deuce,’ numerous 160 to 180-pounders, and countless other 70 to 100-pounders, to confirm the fact that while he was new to this fishery, he was not new to fishing; he took to it like a fish takes to water. I’ll end today’s narrative on that sorry attempt to insert a little humor. I need about three hours of rest per night for around ten or twelve consecutive days to really crank up the levity.”



Latest On Guadalupe Trips

Celia Condit of the Searcher has added some information of interest to anglers about fishing at Guadalupe Island this summer:

We have ALL been waiting patiently for the news about fishing Guadalupe Island and now we have it. We can fish the island! But In order to fish there, we are required to clear Mexican customs and immigration in Ensenada, both on the way there and on the return. We will also need to clear back into the US before returning to the dock. Because of this, each passenger on a Guadalupe Island trip is required to have a passport.

If you are on a 5-day trip or longer (for trips after July 1) there is an opportunity to fish Guadalupe, so getting a passport is required. This doesn't mean we will go to Guadalupe on every trip. But if everyone has a passport, we have it as an option. We will require the passport information in advance of your trip for submission to the authorities. At this time, you do NOT need a passport for a 4-day trip or shorter.

GETTING A PASSPORT: It can take 4-6 weeks to get a passport so we recommend you start the process soon. There are options for on-line submission or you can make an appointment at a processing center. Usually main post offices are processing centers. All the information for applying for or renewing a US passport can be found at the State Department web site:
http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html

We have designated three trips in the fall that are Guadalupe Specials: Oct 17-23 (6-day) and Oct 8-13 and Oct 21-26 (5-day trips) if you want a trip targeting that legendary island!

Get your trip booked by calling 619-226-2403 or email at reservations@searchersportfishing.com. Try our new on-line booking system.

We're looking forward to the 2011 season!

"Tuna fishing has picked up for us here on the bank," Excel skipper Justin Fleck reported May 20, 2011. "Most of the action is from 0530 to 0900 every morning. A good percentage of the fish are in the 100-180 pound range with a few cows mixed in. One concern of ours is that there seems to be more and more sharks showing up all the time and they are definitely taking their share. Hopefully we can keep putting fish aboard that haven't been bitten. Ted Kamenecka currently sits at the top of the leader board with a 247 pounder. Jim Carlisle also picked up a nice one at 204 pounds. The weather seems to be hanging in there with 15-20 knots of wind throughout the day, but its not that bad sitting on the anchor."

“We had a very long day looking for some action today,” reported the American Angler May 19, “checking out all of our yellowtail spots with Gold Stars next to them, only finding cold water, cold, dirty water or cold, dirty, smutzy water. (‘Smutz’ is the term used by skippers to describe meter readings that are heavily marked, flecked with minute organisms or objects like plankton.)

“Sometime in the late afternoon we found the right conditions; warmer clean blue water and can you believe it... fish. We are going to go out on a limb and hope conditions stay the same here and go to work a little earlier in the day tomorrow.

“The photo of the day is Ms. Tammie and her personal Capt. Taro with a sample of the grade fish we enjoyed today. We have another day to fish the shallows before we make the run offshore (weather permitting).”



Boatwork Report

“What’s going on aboard the Royal Polaris…First, the engineers: The engineer team is Billy, Eddie, Jonathan, and Evan. First thing is they took out the port and starboard gearboxes and did major work on them, installed new sump-tank on starboard side, and then installed new plumbing to the heads downstairs.

“Then there’s the paint crew (Roy, Kenny, Ralph, and Chris). There has been sanding, bounding, painting, you name it, they have been hard at work. Chris has installed new electrical outlets on the celling in the galley. That brings me to "Big D". Dharyl has been hard at work, sanding and varnishing. Believe me when I say ‘The Crew Works Hard For Their Money’. We will keep you informed and updated on our daily events. The phone has been on the blink, that's why no reports, but we are back in action.”



Ekstrom On Guadalupe Island

Tim Ekstrom of the Royal Star posted this report May 19: “The guys will be arriving in San Diego this evening after a run up the hill featuring both the best and worst side of what the temptress has to offer. Today’s arrival will be followed by a final week at the dock where preparations will be made for the upcoming season that begins on Friday, May 27th. Meanwhile a few positive items to emphasize include falling fuel costs and details finalizing our access to Guadalupe this season coming together. The falling fuel costs translate into a smaller impact on our angler’s resources while the Guadalupe access provides opportunity at the magical outside island for the larger class yellowfin tuna less extended travel times necessary to reach Alijos rocks and beyond.

“In reference to Guadalupe it does appear that anglers must carry U.S. Passports (or a Passport from your country of citizenship) and we will be required to travel through Ensenada and U.S. customs upon return. All voyages will originate and return to San Diego with anglers remaining on board Royal Star the entire time. No disembarkation is required or necessary. There are still some final details being worked out but the main news is that Guadalupe will be among our list of options during our summer and fall voyages. We will keep everyone posted as additional details become available. The main component is that anglers on voyages that may access Guadalupe, more specifically voyages from the middle of July through October in the four to seven day range, should carry a U.S. Passport. Depending on fishing circumstances it is not certain that any given voyage will travel to Guadalupe, but a voyage carrying anglers without passports will not be permitted access. If you do not have a Passport we strongly encourage you to submit an application now so you will have the option of fishing at Guadalupe Island.

“In the meantime reports and photos will continue during the upcoming week as the boat arrives with a new stock of full resolution shots today. Also Capt. Sims will be back at the video side posting a few new clips from the last two tagging voyages on the Royal Star Facebook page. Don Franks gets top billing today as this full resolution shot, with a magnificent Cape Pearce providing the backdrop is well worth a repeat. In contrast to the smaller rigs I heralded yesterday, Don’s use of the big 80-class reels produces awesome results. The cranking power, the giant drag surface, the torque, the pure dominance of such equipment once a fish is hooked is unmistakable. Fishing with a sardine for an extended period of time toting one of these beasts around is definitely less than attractive however. It is that classic trade off that boils down to personal preference, to how one best likes to do their thing. There are many ways to get the job done.

“Finally, I suspect that the information regarding Guadalupe will generate a host of questions that we are glad to answer. Tracy, Randy, Brian, and I will be available tomorrow and throughout next week to do just that. It is a perfect opportunity for one and all to get the information direct from the source; and I encourage everyone to do so rather than depend on the trusty rumor mill that predictably leads the majority of individuals seeking valid information astray.”

“The weather overall was a notch better,” said the report from American Angler May 17, “but still not good. Even so, the gang has done a great job dealing with the elements the last couple of days to put some fish in the hatch.

“The fishing was down from yesterday; 47 yellows and five tuna. However, we did get a few bigger ones like Harold's, on the kite today, so there is still sign of fish around. You just have to be here on the right day.”



Down In The Zone

“Our first day in the lower zone was a huge success,” observed Excel skipper Justin Fleck May 17. “After looking around for a bit we put the anchor down and went to work. It didn't take long before we had 100-plus skins on the board so we turned our attention to the tuna for the afternoon. Even though we could see them jumping around the boat, it was pretty tough to get through the wahoo. We did pick up a few nice ones for the day.


"Jan Howard wins big fish honors today with a 217-pounder hooked on the kite. Dave Rocchi plucked a nice fish out of the chunk line. His fish was just shy of the 200-pound mark."

“We arrived at our destination just before lunchtime today,” said the report from American Angler May 16, “after a nice ride down, because if we had been traveling in the opposite direction, it wouldn't have been so nice. The weather is up for the first chapter of this trip, but looks like it will lay down for the ride home. O.K. enough weather dope.

“We had very good fishing today, mostly yellowtail, but with just enough tuna to keep the gang at the rail all afternoon. We are still trying to get a feel for this place and are looking forward to being here at daylight, which can be important at times, and hope to scratch at the tuna a little better tomorrow."



Finito

“And they were done; finished, roasted, toast, sated, fulfilled, and ready to head for home,” noted skipper Tim Ekstrom of the Royal Star May 15. “The final morning in the world famous 'Lunker Hole' where the world record yellowfin tuna that stood for thirty something years was caught; the last chance to soak a line in the legendary Revillagigedo reserve, and, one man, then two, then three were all we could muster for the last hurrah. These anglers are done.

“There has been so much superb catching, so many opportunities to hook and land premium grade yellowfin tuna over the past twelve days that the vast majority of anglers have reached their saturation point. Our final hit last night spoke volumes to this end. The festive atmosphere barely took into account the fact that three or four good tuna were hooked by the diehard half-dozen anglers at the rail. When I mentioned this, and encouraged everyone to give it their all, the vast majority looked at me as if I were nuts. Even the Thai masters preferred to observe and cheer on the indomitable "Stan" as he pulled on a final beast that required a backup to tame.

“All told this is the exact atmosphere we seek to accomplish on any given voyage. This being the final Revilla tagging voyage for the foreseeable future sweetens the victory that much more. I'll keep the narrative going as the boat slogs up the line on what promises to be quite an adventure according to the forecasters; not good. We'll see. In the meantime I'll send full resolution shots from the beach as well as a few thoughts on events current and past. Capt. Sims now takes the helm tightening the chinstrap on his crash helmet with the resolve of a seasoned pro; all in a day's work.

“Photo of the day features first time Royal Star angler Andre de Boton who made the trip all the way from Brazil to take part in the final Revillagigedo tagging adventure. What a pleasure making the acquaintance of such a fantastic man full of vitality, spirit, and knowledge. I, in particular, look forward to the opportunity to fish with Andre again as we shared many a fine conversation in time passing between fishing. Andre is one of those individuals who reminds me of how exceptional the opportunity to meet new people and share perspectives really is. I wouldn't trade it for anything.”

“Extreme would be an understatement,” offered Royal Star skipper Tim Ekstrom May 14, “to describe the contrast between conditions yesterday and today. Yesterday was sweetness defined; paradise I believe I dubbed it: calm seas, inviting breeze, conditions working in tandem with us not against; today not so much. We made a catch regardless. In fact the early morning produced yet another round of excellent fishing on tuna in the 70 to 130-pound class followed by a drift for a dozen or fifteen of the 130 to 180-pound models, then the wind got on it. Or better said, the wind got it on.

“Our delightful drift track was wiped white by thirty to thirty five knots of breeze that did wonders to diminish enthusiasm for standing out in it fishing for a bite. The only good part of the equation was that being a local condition the sea state was far less severe than would normally accompany such stiff ocean breezes. That and the incredible phenomena of up drafting generated by the three thousand four hundred foot Socorro island that created dramatic wind lines, eddies, and complete direction shifts as we drifted along amidst the theater. One minute it would be howling with such authority you could hardly hear someone standing next to you speaking in a normal voice then, in a matter of one minute, it would slack off to a gentle pleasant breeze. Then the direction would shift one hundred and eighty degrees and the side of the boat an angler was correctly fishing from reversed, or the boat would start spinning doughnuts; crazy conditions to work with no doubt. One can imagine the havoc it played on the boys attempting to maintain the kite; more than once we were on top of the wheelhouse disentangling gear from the shrieking rigging and antennas, pure fun.

“And the final significant change to contrast was the ubiquitous population of local sharks that finally decided to assert their prerogative to annoy, hassle, harry, pester, bother, steal, take, and make a general nuisance of themselves in every way, shape, and form. Nothing changed as far as their numbers were concerned, the aggression switch simply turned on making for a few handfuls of corn-cobbed, or totally lost tuna, and plenty of sacrificed leaders and hooks. To quote the late Marty Milner from the original Let's Talk Hookup broadcast, "A little of that goes a long way.” I couldn't have said it better myself.

“But with all this we still had another excellent day of production tagging exactly fifty yellowfin tuna in the 70 to 180-pound class. The breakdown was similar to yesterday with about half from 130 to 180 pounds, and the remainder 70 to 120, with the majority in the 90 to 100-pound class; not a bad day of fishing by any standard. The present standard has been skewed by so many days of phenomenal fishing we have experienced throughout this voyage. As of now, with one final morning to go, six of the nine fishing days thus far have been excellent to stellar. In such consistency it is difficult to find fault. Being human though we'll go to any length to find a chink in the armor.

“By day's end we were sad to be going, but glad to go and be gone. It was time. The place had an air of change today that elicited that thief in the night feeling. Motoring up toward San Benedicto the farewell to Socorro was in good spirit. We are grateful beyond measure. Any little thing tomorrow, any little bonus round will place a cherry on top of and already colossal portion of good times and fun. And then - we are going home.

“Today's image features a bow action shot of 'Stan' pulling on one of his four 160 to 180-pound class yellowfin landed today; that's just the big ones I mention. I don't even know how many others he landed from 75 to 130 pounds. I cannot even begin to relate Stan's enthusiasm for fishing that goes far beyond extraordinary. He is insatiable, driving himself to produce through sheer will, winding in these big tuna one after another on his equipment of choice: Shimano Talica 25's and smaller, custom rods. The gear the Thai anglers use is topic in itself that I will expound upon during the upcoming week. I have plenty to say and pictures to share on the subject. This is Stan's moment however that he earned ten times over, every day of the trip. I have never seen a better, more enthusiastic fisherman."



On Her Way South

“Hello Anglers,” wrote Excel skipper Justin Fleck May 16, “the ride down so far has been pretty uneventful for us here on the Big X. The anglers have used this time to relax and to prepare their gear for when we arrive to our first destination tomorrow morning just after daylight. The weather has been a little on the choppy side thus far for us but the forecast looks better.”



Marina Del Rey Halibut Derby Results May 16, 2011

(Press Release)

The 2011 MDR Halibut Derby is in the books and by all standards it was a great success. The 36th Annual MDR Halibut Derby was completely reinvented this year with the goal of making it more accessible to anglers and at the same time reducing the pressure on our local Santa Monica Bay halibut population. The changes included making it a one day event, reducing the costs, including additional fish species for awards, expanding the geographical boundaries of the tournament and adding a special 20% weight credit for live halibut releases.

The 2011 MDR Halibut Derby was held on Saturday, May 14. Derby anglers awoke to gray overcast but calm weather. Anglers fished especially hard all day knowing there would be NO tomorrow. Forgoing the big barracuda bite reported in the bay, many worked the spots for the intended targets some inshore for halibut others out in the rougher deep seas for rockfish.

Talk started early as one call came in about a big fish. Few take that too seriously but it turned out to be true. Anglers started arriving to weigh in their fish around 3pm. There was a definite buzz around the weigh-in dock as anglers and bystanders gathered to see the big fish that the boat “But’s Up” brought to the docks. They weighed in a lovely 43.7-pound California Halibut caught by Don Kobabe of Agoura. It immediately went to the top of the leader board.


Second place came in late. With just a few minutes to spare kayaker Tony Copos weighed in a sweet 17.7-pound halibut. Tony worked locally and caught a full limit of halibut and said he released more shorts back to the bay. Fishing from kayak in shallow waters is the hottest new trend in the angling community.

Some of the new “Save the Halibut” rules were quite effective. Two anglers took advantage of the 20% weight credit and released healthy fish at the docks with witnesses. They were Paul Thompson, 6.6 pounds, and Larry Silver, with a 6.7-pound flatfish. Both fish swam away from the docks to keep growing and helping the local Santa Monica Bay populations.

The officials weighed in many of bags of rockfish and some bass. Eventually a big bag of rockfish went high on the scales to earn Shawn Bevin a spot on the leader board in Third place. His total bag was 16.7 lbs. for a nice tasty stringer of fish.

The expanded variety of species being weighed in increased the excitement, as more anglers felt they had a chance to successfully weigh in fish. Those lucky enough to weigh in were rewarded with a subscription to Western Outdoor News. The winners received prizes along with the trophies. One treat is the souvenir photo of their catch with a lovely Miss Halibut. This year the many anglers with fish were able to pose with the lovely Deve McLaughlin who with the help of celebrity photographer Gisele Rebeiro worked to make every photo great. The photos will be viewable on the Marina Del Rey Anglers web site.

Marina del Rey Anglers is a fishing and conservation group and a non profit 501(c) 3 organization. Proceeds from the MDR Halibut Derbies have traditionally funded the club's well known and respected MDRA Youth Fishing Program, its White Seabass Grow-out Pens in Marina Del Rey and various other critical marine environmental and conservation programs. It hosted over 500 children to fishing trips over the summer of 2010. These future anglers come from inner city areas and at risk environments to the ocean for new eye opening experiences. Over the years MDRA has released nearly 100,000 white seabass from its WSB grow-out pens. MDRA welcomes new members and all donations. For more information visit HYPERLINK "http://www.mdranglers.com" www.mdranglers.com and look for derby photos and results or HalibutDerby.com for information on this event and the sponsored charities.

Attached photos and credits:

Wining Fish Photo – 
Photo left to right: Don Kobabe, 43.7 lb halibut, Alan Perry, and Miss Halibut 2011 (Deve McLaughlin)

2nd place fish photo – 
Photo left to right: Tony Copos, 17.7 lb halibut and Miss Halibut 2011 (Deve McLaughlin)

Live Halibut being Released – Photo Larry Silver and a live fish being released 


Credit: Each photograph above by professional photographer Gisele Rebeiro for MDR Anglers

Contacts: 
Phone (818) 642-1889 or Email to: info@halibutderby.com to reach MDRA President Bob Kissling

Phone 310-391-0821 or Email to: info@mdranglers.com to reach MDRA webmaster Keith Lambert for photos.

Phone (310) 398-3133 at home to reach 2011 MDR Halibut Derby Chairman Ken Raymond

New Guy Harvey Marlin Boss Sun Mask From AFTCO Bluewater

(Press Release)

We are excited to introduce the latest category in the Guy Harvey Headwear Collection. The Marlin Boss Sun Mask is a must-have for anyone concerned with sun and wind protection. Our sun mask can be worn in many different ways; as a basic mask, headband, pirate cap, hair scrunchie, bandana, beanie, helmet liner, and anything else you might come up with! The awesome Guy Harvey art, with the “Save our Seas” I.D. Tag sets our Sun Mask apart from the rest. Other key features include flat lock seaming for comfort, anti-microbial treatment for odor, and 100% quick-dry 50+ UPF polyester, for protection from the damaging effects of the sun. Our Guy Harvey Sun Mask will definitely have you covered.

The MHSM1002 Marlin Boss Sun Mask is one size fits all. It comes in Black and White. The MSRP is $19.99. To see the entire Guy Harvey Sportswear Collection, go to GuyHarveySportswear.com.

For more information contact:

Terry Simms
AFTCO Mfg. Co. Inc.
17351-B Murphy Ave
Irvine, CA. 92614
terry@aftco.com
949-660-8757

Out on his last tagging trip, Royal Star skipper Tim Ekstrom endured rough conditions and arrived at Clarion Island only to find a dearth of tuna showing. Preparing to head back to the inside islands, he spotted fish, and reported for May 12:

“…A spot of tuna jumping on our bow literally seconds after I informed everyone that if we didn't see any sign within the next half hour we would depart for the inside, delayed our inevitable move back east.

“At least one more morning will be dedicated to my beloved Clarion to prove beyond reasonable doubt that our effort will be better focused elsewhere. Though I probably sold the overall results of our day at Clarion a little short, similar to our day at Partida it will take nothing short of excellent to overshadow the action at Socorro. We did have a good time, we did meet our exact tagging objectives, and we did contribute a bunch of butterfly jigs to the local wahoo population before getting a few shots at decent grade yellowfin tuna late. And, to end the day on a beautiful note, we did wind up on the anchor in the flat calm lee enjoying the peace as only those who have endured a distinct thirty something hour butt kicking are able; life's little pleasures are so poignant at times.

“Today's photo provides a little insight into angler Benz's unique sense of humor. When I say he is a laugh a minute I am speaking in literal terms. Here is Benz with one of his two nice yellowfin landed late in the day. Classic.”



SeaTow San Diego Adds 35-footer to the Fleet

(Press Release) SeaTow San Diego CEO, Capt. Chris Cucuru announced a 35-foot Willard has been added to the fleet. It is a former fire & rescue craft from the Columbia River, Oregon. The SeaTow Fleet now consists of 5 boats and 6 Towing certified Captains.

In The Mailbag

"Dear Bill: I just finished reading your new book, At The Rail, and I really enjoyed it! I've been fishing the San Diego long range boats for the last 20 years, and I still think I learned at least a dozen new techniques to make me a better fisherman. Plus, I just like the way you tell a fish story. Very informative, and very entertaining. Tight Lines,"
Mike M., (by US Mail May 12, 2011)

Tim Ekstrom has moved his anglers out to the west, having spent time on larger tuna at Socorro Island. When he arrived at Roca Partida, observers were treated to the sight of some huge schools of small yellowfin reflecting sunlight en masse. Here’s his account from May 10:

“Nothing wondrous about the fishing results today. In fact, combined with sloppy, undesirable weather conditions one would be hard pressed to extract a positive impression of Roca Partida. We tagged a few fish, and endured the trying conditions, but the catching was horribly overshadowed by the previous four days. The fish watching was grand however, yes, fish watching.

“Shoals of micro to small yellowfin tuna, undeterred by the sloppy sea state, performed their version of the popular Wave that we are all familiar with from stadium sporting events. In the fish variation, that typically begins at the end of the swiftly moving school, each fish turns on its side while running down swell reflecting the sunlight in succession as bluish, silver flashes ripple through the masses like a shockwave. At times even the whole school synchronizes illuminating an entire section of ocean in a brilliant flash of blue to greenish iridescence.

“More often than not these amazing displays are reserved for those of us who spend countless days observing the ocean surface for signs of life and fish. Subtlety is more commonly the theme as the wary ocean tends to holds her cards close. But there are those occasions when her startling treasures are revealed. How they are received I suppose is the measure of their value to an individual. I certainly convey my enthusiasm when such occasions arise, but I often find that I am the one most energized by the vision.

“Today I had at least a couple of fellow admirers however as Bruce Posthumus and Doug Taylor joined me on the top deck in awe of the spectacle of so much visible fish. At one point we motored along for about a half-mile with an entire school, happy as clams, running, shining, and breezing high and dry right along side. The whole time a handful of anglers was busy catching the eager little devils for the tagging effort. It won't make the front page, or compare to targeting big cows, but fishing for the fun of it is still fun - to a fisherman.

“It didn't take long however for the thrill to subside and the Clarion bell to beckon us west. Taking our medicine in the form of a sloppy ride, the prospect of what may lie ahead in the way of both fishing and sanctuary was incentive divine. Tomorrow we will be back at it harboring high hopes of finishing out the voyage at my beloved Clarion. Photo today features "O" with a dandy 190-pound yellowfin he subdued in short order a few days ago near Socorro. On this topic I have a whole round of tales to relate that I am saving for later. Suffice to say these anglers from Thailand are still proving some pretty unbelievable ideas, and having the time of their lives in the process; consummate fishermen; every one of them.”



In The Mailbag

“Hey Bill, What is the reason for the passengers on the Royal Star wearing face masks? Does the galley on the Star serve a lot of beans? Also, what is the name of that big metal plug you posted on your site last year that resembles a large metal Flatfish or Quickfish plug? Thanks!” Paul G (by email 5-11-11)

“Hi, Paul: Your guess is as good as mine! The Asian anglers wore those last year, too. The big lure (it comes in all sizes and weights) is called a Russelure and I got an albie with it first time I dropped it off on the slide. It is a bit like a flatfish but it’s made of u-shaped metal. Comes from Texas and has been around since 1947.”

Jordan Richard, skipper of the Channel Isle Sportfishing of Oxnard, worked for several years aboard the Excel with then-skipper Shawn Steward. Jordan, known as “Shrek” in those days, has experienced some excellent barracuda fishing on the Tradition out of Redondo, and posted this photo to prove it. Barries this big used to be called “stovepipes.”

Shrek’s mentor Steward has been wailing on halibut aboard his Aloha Spirit, as shown by the photos he’s been posting.

“So good in fact,” wrote Tim Ekstrom of the Royal Star May 8, “that the tireless Thai anglers, and I offer that observation in complete sincerity, began to show signs of fatigue after a morning hit of 35 yellowfin of 100 to 150-pounds, followed up by a couple of drifts for about 30 more 75 to 120-pounders. After that flurry of action, broken up by a short visit to the local Navy base to check in, we resumed fishing to find participation affected as anglers tended to equipment, took five, or simply preferred to relax until afternoon.

“And while that strategy made perfect sense, our afternoon results diverged from the pattern as we headed back to yesterday's successful big fish area to find wild, un-catchable fish; literally uncatchable, as we chased spots for what felt like an eternity and never successfully closed the distance. In the end the four-hour, fishless afternoon sojourn did wonders to restore angler's energy as most took advantage of the opportunity to catch a siesta in preparation for activities to come.

“Recognizing that our goose was cooked about halfway through the mid afternoon tour, we pivoted with time sufficient to return to the morning's productive zone. In doing so, we made an evening of it, scratching steady at a completely different grade of fish than the morning: 60 to 80-pound yellowfin with a few standouts over one hundred filled the void created by our flyer and thankfully closed out the day on a high note.

“The ideal combination of conditions, weather, and scenery frame our results thus far as extraordinary. On this voyage we are joined not only by a significant group of anglers coming all the way from Thailand but a handful of other anglers calling from Brazil, Australia, and Singapore. When we hit one of these spots and forty or fifty big tuna explode in the wake charging toward our stern flying out of the water, then almost every line out there simultaneously comes tight accompanied by the unmistakable pitch of spectra peeling off reels and signing through the guides, it makes quite an impression on a fisherman who has never imagined such things.

“So into day four we charge, prepared to continue the roll we have established. If the fishing holds up to standards of the past three days we will soon be heading west. Photo of the day features Doug Taylor giving his new popping outfit a test drive. After watching the Thai and east coast anglers having such a fantastic time using the poppers and spinning outfits, Doug contacted tagging veteran and now good friend Greg DeFelice to get tuned up with a new rig. True to form, yesterday Doug cast into a group of 100 to 150-pound tuna blowing out under an advancing bird school, and was rewarded with the ultimate top water experience, a massive explosion as a 120-pound tuna detonated on his stick bait. And true to form, Doug subdued the beauty in short order using the Shimano Stella and appropriate rod. If there are still any disbelievers out there they are missing the boat. This gear is incredibly effective; and good fun.”



Record Bluegill?

“A redear sunfish,” wrote Kelly Burgess May 6 for twitter.com/latimesoutposts "pulled from Lake Havasu on Monday may break the standing International Game Fish
Assn. all-tackle world record for the species.

"Robert Lawler of Lake Havasu City landed the huge redear, which weighed in at 5.55 pounds (digital) measured 16.75 inches long and had a 19-inch girth.

"The Arizona Game and Fish Department has confirmed the fish as the new species state record. If certified by the IGFA, the sunfish will also best the current IGFA all-tackle record of 5 pounds, 7 ounces, set in 1998 by Amos Gray in South Carolina."

“It's a rare day that finds me at a shortage for words;” wrote Royal Star skipper Tim Ekstrom May 6, “better stated in this case a shortage of time necessary to craft something beyond ordinary. The good news on the fishing front is that while day one began on shaky ground - zero tuna for the first seven hours, we made a move that landed us smack in the middle of a productive afternoon zone.

“And interestingly, or rather, fortuitously, the timing of such a move would have been lost had we followed the traditional pattern of movement between the islands. As it turned out, our delayed departure from Cabo San Lucas led directly to the opportunity found today. Sometimes things are meant to be. Anyway the afternoon sign was exactly what we came for with steady hits for straight quality yellowfin offshore. 90 to 120-pound tuna made up about half the total with 150 to 190-pounders making up the difference. It was a good showing that actually has me charged up to see what tomorrow brings.

“Not wanting to get too far ahead however, day one of ten is checked off in the success column; nine more now to go. Perhaps tomorrow will allow time for a side dish or two with the meat and potatoes.

“Photo today features master angler Jai from Seven Seas tackle who again made the sojourn west to try his hand at the big yellowfin of the Revillagigedo archipelago. And, as usual, he came out on top, throttling more than his share. In this series Jai almost drew a losing hand as a bigger model threatened to take all 550 yards of mono from his Shimano Talica 25. We connected the backup just in time for the crazed tuna to finally stop and turn. The fish was ultimately subdued with little trouble after a few rounds of back and forth with a mere twenty or thirty yards left on the reel. All in good fun, exactly what we came for.”

Ekstrom and his passengers are on the last of his tagging trips. Expect more of Tim’s accounts from the islands over the next two weeks. The Star’s last trip for science saw over 500 yellowfin tuna caught, tagged and released.

Bloodydecks.com has changed its website to present an online magazine style or format. The new look reflects a greater emphasis on information and events, although the forums will remain unchanged. The new look is attractive and presents numerous subjects. Here’s more about it:

Welcome to BD Outdoors

(Press Release)

After more than a year of planning, scheming and dreaming, the crew from Bloodydecks is proud to present its new-and-improved website, www.BDOutdoors.com! Before you freak out, the forums that made Bloodydecks the largest, most-active online saltwater fishing community on the web today will NOT CHANGE. We're simply giving our users more information and photos in an expanded format.

BD Outdoors features in-depth articles and product reviews, a cutting-edge multimedia viewer, recipes, forum feeds, destination features, video galleries and much more. And as always, it's all free!


BD Outdoors is not constrained by the boundaries of traditional print media. The site can display everything from breaking news to lengthy photo galleries in a timely, attractive, magazine-like format that readers can access from anywhere on a number of devices.

“No one has truly harnessed the multimedia capabilities of the web to capture the essence of the sportfishing lifestyle,” says Ali Hussainy, president and co-founder of BD Outdoors. “We want to bring the adventure and passion of the fishing world online, using the latest technologies and top-tier content from around the world.”

The company hired on Charlie Levine to lead the editorial development and create a team of writers and photographers. Levine has written hundreds of articles about boating and fishing and has more than 10 years of experience editing magazines. Before coming to BD, he served as senior editor of Marlin.

To head up the creative effort, the company brought on board Derek Redwine. For the past 16 years, Derek has owned and operated BoldWater, a web-development and design firm. Over his career Derek has drawn thousands of fish and designed countless logos and websites for marine-related companies. Derek is responsible for giving BD Outdoors its unique look that is unmatched in the world of fishing websites.

We're also happy to welcome many of the sport's top writers and captains to the BD Outdoors team. Leading up the offshore content is Capt. Steve Lassley, who's won just about every tournament on the West Coast. Steve will be writing a bi-monthly column called “As I See It,” and will also contribute feature articles on various aspects of the sport. We're also excited to introduce outdoor writer Gary Graham as BD's Baja Editor. Gary will cover all of the action south of the border in his “Baja Bytes” column. Gary has been covering the Baja region for years. He will write several articles throughout the year as well. Some of the other contributors that will be writing for BD Outdoors include Dave Hansen, Ben Secrest, Todd Mansur,Bill Boyce, Tony Peña, Fly Navarro and Nate Treadwell, just to name a few.

We'll also be featuring reports and photos from our users on the homepage and throughout the site, so make sure to continue to post your fishing stories.

We've created a Pro Staff made up of the top captains across the United States and abroad. These guys will be our eyes and ears on the water and file reports and photos from their regional areas.

What it all boils down to is a love of fishing and the outdoors. It's this passion that drives everyone on the BD Outdoors team and fueled the desire to give our community an information-filled, action-packed fishing and outdoors site that they can call their own. We hope it will get you fired up.

Wahoo were so thick on the Hurricane Bank that they became pests to the anglers trying for big tuna, said the crew and 22 fishermen aboard the Excel’s 17-day Ralph Mikkelsen trip. They bit all day long, and snipped off the leaders meant for yellowfin tuna. Summer tuna were spotted on the way home, offering promise of some good fishing to come for the short trips beginning soon. Eight cows came home with the anglers.

“Tuna fishing on the bank was unique,” said skipper Justin Fleck to dock reporter Bill Roecker at Pt. Loma Sportfishing May 5. He offloaded his catch there, a process that took a couple of hours, since the Excel’s holds were full of tuna and wahoo, with a few large yellowtail from Alijos Rocks, visited on the way home.

“The tuna were night fish,” continued Fleck, “and the wahoo were prevalent during the day. We had no wind or sharks until the last day. The water was 76 degrees.”

Fleck said he looked for fish on the way home with some success. He saw plenty of yellowtail on the kelp floating offshore, even this early in the season.

“It’s a good setup down there about 280 miles,” remarked Justin. “It looks like it did last year, with albacore and bluefin in the area.”

“The Hurricane Bank was too good to leave,” said one angler. “We got wahoo on everything you can think of. I got one on a popper!”

Mike Holliday of Placitas, NM won first place for the trip’s best fish, a 246-pounder.

“It’s my best fish ever,” he said. “It stayed up on the surface most of the time, with its sickles out of the water.”

Mike said he baited a flying fish on a 20/0 Mustad circle hook under the kite. He used 130-pound Izorline on a Penn 50 W reel and a Baja Boomer rod to take the fish in an hour.

Skipper Fleck mustered in a big tuna in the dark, which he gave to angler Pat Gallagher. Had it been eligible it would have taken second place. It weighed in the 240’s when it was caught.

Allan Goldman of Toronto won second place for a 224-pounder, his first cow. He said it took him around the boat once and around the anchor four times. He said he got it with a flyer under the kite on a 20/0 Mustad circle hook. He used 130-pound Blackwater fluorocarbon and 130-pound Spectra on an 80 W Penn reel and a Calstar CT 555 XXXH rod to take his prize in 45 minutes.

Marc Monforte of Fullerton won third place for a 223-pounder, and also caught a 201-pound tuna. He said the big one came on a skipjack and a 16/0 Eagle Claw hook tied to 130-pound Seaguar fluorocarbon and 125-pound Ande line. He fished with a Penn 80 W reel modified by Cal Sheets and got the fish in 35 minutes.

“He came over green, still splashing,” said Marc. I got a lot of ‘hoos on bombs, with chrome heads and multi-colored skirts.”

Wayne Newman of Saugus bagged a 219-pounder with a sardine on an 8/0 Eagle Claw hook. It was his first trip and his first tuna, and it fought for an hour and a half, taking him around the boat four times. He said he used 130-pound pink Yo-Zuri and 130-pound Line One spectra on a Penn 50 reel modified by Cal Sheets, on a Super Seeker 6463 XXXH rod.

Larry Hengsteler of Buckeye, AZ caught a 214-pound tuna on a mackerel and a 9/0 Eagle Claw hook. He used 130-pound pink Yo-Zuri fluorocarbon and 100-pound blue Izorline and 130-pound Line One spectra on an Avet 50 reel and a Calstar 6455 XXH rod.

John VanDeventer of Canyon Country took a 202-pound tuna with a mackerel on an 8/0 Eagle Claw hook tied to 100-pound pink Yo-Zuri fluorocarbon and 130-pound Line One spectra on a Sheets-treated Penn 50 reel and a Super Seeker 6463 XXXH rod.

“It took about 45 minutes,” said John. “Those night fish were crazy around the boat on the last night because of the sharks.”



Small Craft Warnings Curb Contest

(Press Release)

Several Derby anglers went out on Saturday and Sunday. No weigh slips were submitted indicating no fish were weighed. High winds and rough seas have put a damper on fishing. Reports of large numbers of Yellowtail and Albacore just south and moving up are exciting.

Nineteen days remain in the 2011 Int’l Yellowtail Derby to Catch the Big One.

The Derby can be fished on private, open party vessels and Kayaks. It will run for 22 days, April 30 to May 22. Celebrate the Awards Party on the May 22nd at the Bali Hai, 2 to 4 pm, with exciting prizes and fun, including weighing in the Winning Angler!

The 2011 International Yellowtail Derby is sponsored and supported by: the Port of San Diego, Sunroad Resort Marina, Sunroad San Diego Boat Show, Boyce Image, Maritime Institute, Seatow Services, CFB Marine Group, West Marine, Everingham Bros, Fisherman’s Landing, H&M Landing, Point Loma Sportfishing, The Bali Hai, Pacific Beach Fish Shop, San Diego Marine Exchange, AFTCO, To The Point Café, Silverfish Press, SportClips, UniButter, Ramona Cafe, Angler’s Choice Tackle, Fisherman’s Landing Tackle, Ballyhood “Top Gun” Int’l, Angler’s Arsenal, Western Plastics, Arizona Boating & Watersports, Steve Crouch Ins. Agency, BlueSkyNews.com, Lets Talk Hook UP radio, Rod an Reel Radio, and All Outdoors Radio, Cosmopolitan Hotel and Restaurant.

The Derby Headquarters is located at the Outboard Boating Club at the Trailer Boat Ramp on Shelter Island Drive in San Diego. The Derby mailing address is 3960 W. Point Loma Blvd. Ste H347, San Diego 92110.

Enter online www.InternationalYellowtailDerby.com

"We made a quick stop at Alijos Rocks this morning where we topped off the fish holds with nice grade yellows," Excel skipper Justin Fleck reported May 3, 2011. "Since we can't fit any more fish in the hatches, we decided to call it a trip and go home a day early. This means that the Excel will be arriving to Fisherman's Landing on the morning of May 5th around 0900."

“Tuna fishing has been good at night here on the (Hurricane) Bank,” observed Excel skipper Justin Fleck May 1. In fact, it's been so good that we have filled the boat and are now making our way up the line. Most of the fish have been coming on sardines with a sinker, a few chunk fish, and a couple caught on skippies. The grade at night is better too. We also picked up a few more cows in the mix. Marc Monforte boated a pair of cows at 202 and 222 pounds. Larry Hengsteler got his personal best at 214 pounds. As for now, we plan on making a couple of quick stops on our way home to do some scouting for upcoming trips.”



Bottom Jigging Is On

“It turned out to be great weather for us on the codding grounds,” wrote skipper Bruce smith for the Shogun April 30. “Along with the outstanding conditions the fish cooperated with us and decided to bite. The hot ticket for most of the guys was a heavy diamond jig or Jax Jig on the bottom and one baited hook or shrimp fly above it. Most of the time we sweeten the jig with a small strip of squid or strip bait. The key word here is small. A small strip, instead of a big hunk of flesh clogging up the gap of the treble, allows for the jig to sink quickly. Our new SHOGUN jig from Salas lures in the heavy models has been working on yellowtail and great on the cods, it sort of looks and is shaped like the old Holiday Special, one of my favorite vertical jigs.”

On May 1, Smith added these remarks: “Our weather held on for another beautiful day. The current and water conditions made for tougher cod fishing today, it was slower than yesterday for sure. Some nice lings, up to 18 pounds (biggest landed by Brian Pearlman), came over the rail along with the standard quality reds.”



New Guy Harvey Black Marlin Sandal From AFTCO Bluewater

(Press Release) Our Guy Harvey Footwear Collection has grown with leaps and bounds! The latest, exciting addition is the Guy Harvey Black Marlin Sandal. This stylish sandal is designed with pigskin suede upper, and footbed that is saltwater friendly. The straps are lined in a patterned waterproof, soft sponge neoprene. A Guy Harvey “Black Marlin” and Guy's recognizable signature is etched on the super comfortable, cushioned footbed with indented heel and built in arch. Other features are reinforced two-tone stitched straps, and a soft web toe strap.

The HSL32101 - Guy Harvey Black Marlin Sandal is available in sizes 8 to 13. It is available in Black & Brown. The MSRP is $49.99. To see the entire Guy Harvey Footwear Program go to www.guyharveysportswear.com.

For more information contact: Terry Simms AFTCO Mfg Co. Inc. 17351-B Murphy Ave., Irvine, CA. 92614 terry@aftco.com 949-660-8757

New Apple App For IGFA

The International Game Fish Association, the world’s foremost global authority on record-breaking fishing, brings you the App anglers have been asking for. The new IGFA Mobile App for the iPhone and iPad will amaze and inspire your fishing adventures. Search IGFA angling World Records, plan your trips, identify your catch with our Species ID section, log your catches, find the nearest IGFA Weigh Station, track your Slam Club progress and more all from this must-have App!

Want to know how your catch measures up to the world’s greatest? The entire IGFA World Records database is right at your fingertips! Searchable by vacant, approved, or pending records, the World Records database makes selecting your next line- or tippet-class record target easier than ever. The App is automatically updated with the latest records when it is opened and connected to cellular or wi-fi signal.

Want to know what you caught? Find out by searching the IGFA Species ID section. Along with marine artists Diane Rome Peebles’ and Duane Ravers’ incredible full-color images of record game species, the ID descriptions include extensive reference material from the IGFA including thorough habitat information, geographic distribution, and anatomy.

(Press Release)

The Yellowtail Shootout is going back to its OG roots this year!

The Tourney runs June 24th, 25th and 26th

This years Shootout will be back in Mission Bay for the Captains Meetings/Awards Party. We will hold both at San Diego Boats. San Diego Boats is right next to Dana Landing Market. That means FREE parking and getting back to that BBQ/chill vibe we had at the first Shootout. San Diego Boats will also give us the opportunity to have indoor and outdoor seating.

We are also rolling back entry fees to year one prices. A team of three will be $300 with each additional angler running $100. We will still have the $100, $300 and $500 jackpots.

Did I mention BBQ? This years Shootout will be catered by Phils BBQ. (wipe drool off chin now). Phil's we be on hand servering up all the grub.

Check out all the details at YellowtailShootout.com

If you know the deal and want to go straight to registration, go here.

Captains Meeting - June 24th
Tournament Fishing Day - June 25th
Awards Party - June 26th