It's that time of year when the US Coast Guard makes its mandatory inspection of sport fishing boats. The checkups ensure the safety of passengers and the seaworthiness of the boats.

Ready for her inspection at Fisherman's Landing, the Condor had her life jackets laid on the rail April 24.

(All Decked Out: Condor is ready for inspection, sir!)

Across the way at Pt. Loma Sportfishing, the Intrepid is sporting a new mast and crow's nest. Dockside vernacular refers to such a setup as "the stick."

Intrepid's new stick was built from a hand-drawn design by the boat's engineer, Danny Nichols. Danny and skipper Jim Lilly were aboard seeing to the ongoing work, as was skipper Kevin Cleary.

(Skipper Jim Lilly (seated) and Intrepid engineer Danny Nichols and Interpid's new "stick.")

Yellowtail season is on the verge of starting up in the San Diego area, and anglers are anticipating the arrival of albacore.