Skipper Justin Fleck docked Excel after a 10-day Braid charter that ended at Fisherman's Landing October 12. The Excel's 28 anglers caught a variety of fish, including two marlin and two sailfish; all released. Chartermistress Jan Howard said, "The trip was slow, but skipper Justin did a fantastic job."

"He never loses his sense of humor," said Jan. "He's really funny, especially when he's up in the wheelhouse talking with fleet. He made it a wonderful trip. And I got to gaff my first fish! That was the most exciting part!"

Vince Gammarano of Oceanside was on his first long range trip, fishing with his father, Pete, a long range regular. Vince landed a 143-pound yellowfin, tops on the boat. Vince flylined a mackerel on an unknown hook, 60-pound Berkley line, an Avet two-speed reel, and a Sabre 660 rod.

"His dad was just proud as punch," said Jan. "You should've seen it; Vince's rod was bottomed out."

Excel regular Craig Arnold of Fallbrook was second for a 74.6-pound yellowfin, and Craig Sauter of Manchester, New Hampshire was third for a 69-pound tuna.