Our Annual Montauk Tuna AdventureWhen the Fish Don't Cooperate, the Memories Still DoBy Chris Avena There are few places that capture the spirit of saltwater fishing, quite like Montauk, New York. Known as the "Fishing Capital of the World," Montauk has long been a destination where anglers chase everything from striped bass and fluke to giant bluefin tuna. Every summer, the American Outdoor News Annual Fishing Event brings together friends, outdoor enthusiasts, and industry professionals for a day on the Atlantic. This year's trip reminded us that some of the best adventures aren't measured by the fish you catch, but by the memories you make along the way. The weekend began on Saturday, July 18, with warm summer temperatures hovering around 80 degrees beneath an overcast sky. Although the forecast called for thunderstorms, everyone remained optimistic that Mother Nature would give us a break. As morning passed to afternoon, however, dark clouds rolled over Long Island, accompanied by lightning, thunder, and torrential rain that continued well into the night. As I listened to the storms outside my window, I couldn't help but wonder if our annual tuna trip would become another weather casualty. At 2:00 a.m. Sunday morning, my alarm sounded. After only a few hours of sleep, it was time to load the truck with coolers filled with drinks, bagels for breakfast, snacks, and catered lunch platters before making the drive from the Millhouse Inn in East Hampton to Montauk. Anyone who has ever planned a fishing trip knows the excitement that comes before sunrise. Despite the uncertainty in the forecast, there was a feeling that today just might be the day. As dawn slowly broke, our group gathered at Westlake Marina. Friends greeted one another with handshakes, laughter, and plenty of coffee as we prepared for another adventure offshore. Joining us this year were Scott and Safari Pike, board members from the Northeast Chapter of Dallas Safari Club, Chris Benson, co-host of the Pursuit Live Podcast, along with Joe and Grace Mesaris. Like many of our annual events, this trip wasn't just about fishing. It was an opportunity to reconnect with friends who share a passion for the outdoors. Waiting for us at the dock was the November Rain, captained by Steve and Jill Ruiz. Their professionalism and experience have earned them an outstanding reputation among Montauk's offshore fleet. Before we left the harbor, Captain Steve gathered everyone together to discuss the latest weather reports. The wind had increased overnight, and the ocean was expected to become rough later in the morning. After reviewing the conditions, we all agreed to give it a shot, knowing that the safety of everyone aboard would always come first. As the November Rain cruised past the iconic Montauk Lighthouse, the Atlantic welcomed us with calm seas and incredible scenery. Jill carefully navigated our course while Steve prepared the rods and tackle for what we hoped would be an exciting day targeting giant bluefin tuna. The ride offshore quickly became a wildlife safari. Pods of dolphins raced alongside the boat, effortlessly surfing the wake as if they were welcoming us into their world. Farther offshore, whales surfaced in the distance, sending towering plumes of mist into the morning sky before disappearing beneath the waves once again. Above us, flocks of seabirds circled and dove aggressively into schools of baitfish, a sure sign that life was thriving below the surface. The Atlantic Ocean was alive with activity, offering a spectacular reminder of why so many of us are drawn to the sea. As we continued beyond Block Island and pushed farther offshore, anticipation continued to build. The rods were set, the drags adjusted, and every eye remained fixed on the spread, waiting for that unmistakable scream of a reel signaling a bluefin strike. Unfortunately, the tuna had other plans. Despite covering productive water and encountering plenty of marine life, the rods remained silent. Sometimes that's simply part of offshore fishing. No matter how much preparation goes into a trip, Mother Nature and the fish always have the final say. Roughly fifteen miles offshore, the weather began to change. The gentle breeze quickly strengthened into steady winds, while the swells continued to build with every passing minute. Before long, the November Rain was climbing and descending through increasingly rough seas. Captain Steve and Jill remained calm and completely in control, expertly handling the vessel despite the slightly challenging conditions. Mother nature was flexing her might and a few members of our group began to experience the effects of motion sickness. Even seasoned offshore anglers know that when the ocean decides to test your sea legs, experience doesn't always matter. Recognizing that the weather would only continue to deteriorate, Captain Steve recommended that we head back toward Montauk before conditions worsened. It wasn't the decision anyone hoped for, but it was unquestionably the right one. Offshore fishing demands respect for the ocean, and there is never a trophy fish worth risking the safety of your crew. Back at the dock, with solid ground beneath our feet and our stomachs slowly returning to normal, we gathered around the lunch platters we had packed earlier that morning. The conversations quickly shifted from the fish we didn't catch to the dolphins we watched play alongside the boat, the whales that surfaced nearby, the laughs we shared, and the stories that inevitably become better with every retelling. As anglers, it's easy to judge a trip by the number of fish brought back to the dock. Yet some of the most memorable days on the water produce empty coolers and full hearts. This year's American Outdoor News Annual Fishing Event was a perfect reminder that success isn't always measured by a full fish box. Sometimes it's measured by good friends, experienced captains, breathtaking scenery, and another unforgettable day spent on the Atlantic Ocean. The bluefin tuna won this round. We'll be back. Because that's what fishermen do. |