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Ritzy, I appreciate the kind words about my writing, and, just so you know, I always enjoy reading about your exploits and projects as well :)

Regarding those BIG guzzlers, I sure agree! It may be worse than you thought, however. Those particular engines require premium fuel, no less, per Yamaha! I figure about $800 a trip on fuel every time I go out for a day. I guess I am used to high expenses now though, after so many years of fueling big old Johnsons, and diesels, doing the same sort of "crazy" thing...offshore Gulf fishing. It's addictive, and I have been "hooked" every since I arrived on the Gulf coast way back in 1980 after growing up back east.

I would bet you get some really good fishing up there in your area as well! I see your area on fishing shows a lot, you got some of the biggest darn flounder I have ever seen! I know you folks call 'em Halibut, but I swear they are identical to our flounder, just look like they live in Jurrassic Park :)