present position: 19deg 57.1' N 161deg 56.3' W, COG 068, SOG 5.5kts estimated 24hr: 20deg 35.9' N 158deg 0.0' W

baro: 29.89 24hr range 29.83 - .89

wind: NE 18kts, 24hr range NE/ENE 11-20kts

seas: 2-3m

Clouds: 35% coverage low cumulus scattere

Summary: 228 Miles to Hawaii surface current is inconsistent

Squirrelly current. Yesterday in our favor, today the opposite. We press on.

Yesterday afternoon I was fishing with only the 50W big stand up rigs challenging the marlin to pick on something his own size. (Feel a bit like Bill Murray with gophers) Outcome unfortunately exactly the same. Big Blue marlin blazed out most of the 80 lb test before I cranked down the drag to avoid losing all the line and he broke off at the leader again. For those who wonder about my knots, Dino, I have had a Bimini Twist break, a surgeons knot, as well as uni knots above the snap swivel. These critters are like hooking a fuel injected dragster. Although there is a chance to land one if we turned around, our goal is to not tarry in the middle of the ocean for an hour or two fighting a game fish. Still trying for fresh fish for the table. And although I make light of it, the mere sight of these marlin is absolutely spectacular, if I have not already mentioned it. We all feel really lucky to be visiting their neighborhood.

Looking at less than 2 days to Honolulu. Everything great with Shearwater and crew. Wondering if we will have trouble walking on terra firma.