By Dave Dolan
On a sunny December morning, The Royal Polaris departed Fisherman”s Landing on the Let’s Talk Hook Up limited load, seven day trip. This trip was limited to 20 anglers. Let me state that again, this trip was limited to only 20 anglers ! What an experience to enjoy one of the premier sport boats with such a light load.
The reports were that there was still a shot at the blue fin tuna in the San Clemente area. Captain Roy Rose made the decision to give it a late season shot at the big boys. In route to the island, a fine load of prizes were raffled off. These gifts included Shimano Flat Falls, Colt Snipers, AFTCO fighting belt and a nice array of AFTCO shirts.Everyone on board scored. The next day of fishing in the zone showed large schools of tuna around the boat. Two blue fin in the 120 pound class were landed along with a few 30 pound grade. But with the large number around, and so few takers, Captain Roy decided to make a move.
Our move was to be a 400 mile run south into Baja. Don’t let anyone tell you that these boats won’t make a move just to save fuel. This was a major move that certainly changed the game plan. After a 40 hour run, we were in the area of Hipolito and Abreojos in Southern Baja. The move paid off. Our first day of fishing found abundant action on yellowtail. This was a nice grade of 18 to 25 pound fish. Our biggest problem was getting thru the bonito and barracuda to get to the tails. These barracuda were a size I have not seen in years, a lot of “stove pipes” and logs in the mix.
That night we made a move north and next day were within sight on both Cedros and Natividad Islands. The yellowtail action in this area exploded to non stop.Most were caught on the yo yo iron. By sundown it was ” no mas “, we are tired.
The next day we started making our way up north, tight to the Baja coast line. In short order, we limited out the boat on yellowtail. Over the next two days we concentrated on a variety of calico bass, reds and ling cod. This made a nice variety of fish for the trip.
I can’t say enough about the crew on this trip. And to enjoy this all on such a limited load was a special treat.At the time you arrive at the landing, the crew carries and loads your gear on the boat. They do the same in reverse on return. Captain Roy Rose is a high energy guy who has a passion for catching fish. There is never a dull moment arou
nd Roy. The crew was very helpful and always seemed to be there when you n
eeded some help. What I also appreciate is the cleanliness of the boat. The deck area was always scrubbed clean and you never saw anything unkept in the galley. And the food is off the charts. I am talking baby back ribs, seafood plates and prime rib. The mid morning and afternoon snacks can substitute as a meal. I came back 4 pounds heavier.
I would certainly recommend this limited load, Let’s Talk Hookup trip next year. Or any time, you can’t go wrong with a trip on a first rate long range boat like the Royal Polaris. You can book a trip through their office at 619-226-8030.
