Once at the northeast station, James fired up the receiver and started our sweep. We were looking for two fish in particular in which we had placed continuous pingers. After a few minutes, the receiver indicated that the fish were nearby. Unfortunately, they were right in the middle of Mike and Rick’s survey area! Not wanting to disturb their fish counts, we decided to search elsewhere for the remaining fish.

We attached our reel to the excursion line and headed out. We searched for a half hour with no luck. The searching gave us time to explore a new part of the reef we’d not yet visited. Scientifically frustrating, but selfishly, I enjoyed the tour! It was a chance to play tourist and admire the corals and sponges around the reef. Knowing that this was my last dive of the mission, I was happy to have the chance to take in all the beauty!