The weekend weather report called for high pressure with clear skies and temperatures in the mid 70’s. From there we looked up the forecasted ocean data come to find that NOAA was calling for 3-4ft.\u00a0 swells coupled with light and variable wind. Realizing these conditions are ideal, we contacted multiple friends for a trip out on ol’ blue in search of Oregon Halibut. We packed the RV and drove to Newport where other friends gathered for an early morning over the bar.\u00a0Due to the\u00a0early season outing, it’s always a good idea to throughly inspect and prepare your boat as well as plan to travel in numbers for safety. Having a well serviced boat with good communication, GPS and safety\u00a0equipment\u00a0can save lives not to mention back up gear\u00a0with good life vests (ON).<\/p>\n
Morning came early\u00a0(4:30 –\u00a0ughh)when we launched the boats. We headed West over the bar calling\u00a0Yaquina Coast Guard station for a bar report and to let them know we would be out till 1400 with four passengers on board.\u00a0Yaquina tower reported mild seas and calm winds with no restrictions on the bar – so off we ventured into Big Blue!<\/p>\n