A strong final showing adding color to the catch and expanding the variety list while breaking up the ride north with some good old straight fishing fun. In aquarium like conditions swarms of voracious yellowfin tuna were entertaining both visually and physically as every bait once again was an instant bite. Another perfect opportunity to put the beach bait we caught to good use anglers were fairly successful at culling the largest of the tuna from the herd and getting more than a few baits through the melee to the dorado patrolling the outskirts.

In stellar, flat calm seas that one stop was the perfect ending to an already successful voyage; the “cherry on top’ if you will. The festive mood that began on day one carried through the final afternoon/evening as revelers determined to celebrate to the end continued rolling high and wide. In complete confidence I can report that a good time was had by all, even yours truly.

It is impossible to not be inspired by these anglers who bring the right spirit to this event. Recognizing that along with the pursuit of fish these voyages are about enjoying the vacation time among friends and like mind souls none of these guys missed the obvious. I love it when that happens. Truth be told it has become the norm here on Royal Star. Some groups are just more “expressive” in their appreciation than others. In that respect these guys earned high marks - 10 out of 10 in my eyes.

Final voyage photo features long time Royal Star veteran John Stuemke with a bonus White Sea Bass he caught on the jumbo MC Swimbait while fishing along the beach in the early am. Expecting calico bass this was a fine start to a great day of fishing. Look for Captain Brian “Gerbie” Sims to take up the reporting and photos as the next voyage departs tomorrow.