It was to be Commodore Andy’s last dive of 2009, and he wanted to enjoy one more bug hunt before the New Year. Since Phil had to work, my plan was to buddy up with Patrick, watch the master in action, and document the efforts of the Moby Kate crew.
As we approached the Marina Del Rey boat launch, I sensed that this trip would be a little different.
Commodore Andy

As we left the dock, Andy entreated the powers that be to grant them a successful hunt.

On the way to the dive site, crew members revealed their own methods to ensure a successful hunt.
Bill Brush, famous for photography and ski hats, sang.

Captain Patrick Smith meditated silently.

Andy danced a jig as a final measure of insurance.

I did what I could to contribute.


It wasn’t long before the first catches of the day were in the bag and on board.

Here’s a shot of Patrick in action.

Topside conditions were perfect. Just as Andy predicted, a mild westerly swell gave way to ripples and glass after the wind changed.
Periodically throughout the day, the Moby Elf King appeared.

Also, Patrick wasn’t taking any chances on missing his limit. The connection between the elf hat and lobster hunting is obviously proprietary.

Vis differed throughout the bay, but it averaged about 10 ft. with no current or surge. The Fish-of-the-Day was spotted by Patrick – a 250 lb. giant sea bass! And as is his custom, Andy took a calico home to Admiral Gaye.

All divers got their limit. Back at the dock, we conversed with an official from the DFG – a very nice young man who was impressed with the catch!

Back at Andy’s house: A bountiful ending to another beautiful day on the water.

• Merry's "first" dive report? Sweet! Divebum Don 17:23:42 01/02/10 (0)
• Re: Moby Kate Elves Bags Bugs in the Bay – 12/29/09 Elena 16:37:00 12/31/09 (0)
• It is all the fault of Max Bottomtime! Commadore Andy S 09:59:23 12/31/09 (3)
  • Apparantly the Elf flu is a water-borne virus Max Bottomtime 15:53:08 12/31/09 (0)
  • Hope you take Pay Pal - nt Phillip Gardener 12:42:18 12/31/09 (0)
  • Merry is the brains of the gang Elaine 10:32:40 12/31/09 (0)
• What a bunch of nutjobs... ~eJ 16:11:21 12/30/09 (0)