I had the pleasure of fishing aboard the Mirage on Galley Chef Joe Pineapple's Birthday Charter. The weather forecast looked threatening throughout the week however the manifest was loaded with personally invited guests who were some of the best anglers I've ever shared the rail with. Anglers representing Get Bent Sportfishing, Dark Kings, Gold Coast Lady Anglers, and Ventura Rod and Lure Co. weren't about to let the weather get in the way of their plans!

Captain Tucker and Second Captain Alex led us out of the channel after baiting up to take refuge behind the islands until the wind settled down. The plan was to slide into Santa Rosa Island in the morning, however the conditions made the crossing unbearable. Pineapple kicked off his party with an early morning raffle with some awesome prizes generously donated by Pineapple and many of his friends! Pineapple even hosted a secondary Jackpot for the largest fish caught on an artificial lure! Captain Tucker put us on some nice grade Rockfish at Santa Cruz Island and quickly loaded up the sacks. The Mirage Crew with Ryan and Dan on deck, and Chef Andrew tearing it up in the galley, did an outstanding job making sure everyone was well taken care of.

Everyone on this trip had such a good time including Mr. Joe Pineapple. As a matter fact, next year's manifest on Pineapple's birthday is already accounted for! We all experienced an unforgettable day in some pretty terrible weather conditions. The camaraderie on this trip was amazing, and so were some of the custom fishing rods!

The channel was ripping on the way back to the barn. We had gale force winds on top of some pretty big swells. However the Captains at the helm made it seamless as the Mirage carved its way back to Port Hueneme. You couldn't tell how nasty it was until you walked out on deck. I even took a VIDEO but it really doesn't do the conditions justice. Looking back at this trip, I really wouldn't change a thing! Happy Birthday Joe Pineapple, thanks for having a charter aboard the Mirage!