Never thought I was going to make it out for the tourney. I let some “NY Yankees” ride on my boat over Memorial Day weekend and the boat actually broke down twice (Ignition Module). Yankees on a boat might just be worse that a banana. You got to be able to get to the fish to catch fish.
Next I had to go to Hawaii for business. Got back Friday morning to get ready to fish. Thanks to Billy for the efforts during the week to get ready. Had to borrow a boat for the tourney and when I launched it at Shem creek 5 minutes later the port engine buzzer is going off. Fixed the problem the morning of. Good thing lines in was at 8 or we could have missed prime time.
Now to fishing, headed almost straight out (barely South) to the ledge. Plan was to stay for an hour and then fish the 380 hole for the rest of the day. Five minutes after lines in had first hook up of a wahoo. Lost him on his run to the boat. Poor communications. Needless to say with the action, the 3 missed sails (one the smallest I have ever seen) and the .5 temp break we stuck it out till 1024am with two 20# dolphin in the box. We finally commited to pick up and run to the 380; however, 6 nm later we ran into a barrel and a board. That was what made us stop, but that is not what made us stay. I know that SC has had a 700# plus Blue captured off the coast, but I believe I saw the grander. No doubt it was 500#+. It was busting on a school of what appeared to be 40 - 60 + yellowfin and eating them like peanuts. I got on the radio to contact Jeff of SeaJays VI and Robbie and Jeff of Split Bill for some professional help but they never answered. I could have at least enjoyed someone who knew what to do is such a situation catch and release the Blue or land a quality tuna. Ended up boxing 3 more dolphin for the day. Only one slinger. Good thing that was the last fish of the day because the gaff broke on our 28.4#er.
Great day on the pond.
