So You Want to Fish Alaska?
- alexosen
- Sep 11
- 5 min read
Hello friends,
In this edition, we'll be covering:
Fishing for Black Cod in Sitka Alaska
2nd Annual Striper Meetup at Sweeney's Sports
Live Bait Update
Give Your Gear a Second Cast
Catch of the Month Contest
Black Cod Fishing 1,700 Feet Down in Sitka, Alaska
Fishing trips don’t get much more memorable than this. On our recent Alaska adventure, we had the chance to fish for black cod (sablefish) in some of the deepest waters Sitka has to offer—1,700+ feet down. We stayed at the legendary Kingfisher Lodge, fished aboard the Gracie K with Captain Scott, and walked away with a new appreciation for one of Alaska’s most unique fisheries.
The Kingfisher Lodge Experience
Before we even hit the water, the team at Kingfisher Lodge set the tone for an unforgettable trip. Their warm hospitality, spotless accommodations, and incredible meals made the lodge feel like home. Every detail was dialed in, from clean sheets to gourmet dinners, so we could focus on what we came for: fishing.
Kingfisher Lodge has built its reputation on professionalism and passion, and that was evident the moment we stepped aboard the Gracie K.
Meet Captain Scott and the Gracie K
Captain Scott is the kind of guide every angler dreams of—calm, confident, and incredibly skilled. Under his guidance, we learned the intricacies of fishing deep, cold Alaskan waters. The Gracie K is perfectly equipped for these missions, outfitted with electric reels, proper gear, and the right layout for battling fish from these depths.
Fishing Half a Mile Down
When I first heard we’d be dropping lines over 1,700 feet, I thought the experience might feel like watching paint dry—just lowering bait and reeling up with the help of an electric reel.
I couldn’t have been more wrong.
Fishing this deep is a game of precision and patience. Feeling a subtle bite through all that line takes focus, and setting the hook—first on one fish, then the second—takes practice. Every drop is a 15-minute investment, and every reel-up takes about the same. That means mistakes are costly, but the payoff is worth it.
When you finally see a sablefish coming up from the depths, its sleek, dark body glistening in the Sitka sun, all that effort feels like a victory.
The Thrill of Black Cod
Sablefish, often called “black cod,” are prized not just for their rich, buttery flavor but also for the challenge of catching them. They live in deep, rocky habitats, making them a bucket-list species for anglers looking to test their skills.
Our trip was full of learning moments—tangles, close calls, and high-fives when we got it right. Captain Scott’s calm expertise kept us on track, and by the end of the day, we had a boat full of beautiful fish.
Why Sitka Should Be on Your Bucket List
Sitka is a fishing paradise, offering everything from salmon and halibut to black cod and rockfish. But beyond the fishing, it’s a town rich in culture, natural beauty, and hospitality. A trip here is as much about the adventure as it is about the catch.
If you’re considering a fishing trip of a lifetime, Kingfisher Lodge and Captain Scott are a dream team. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to deep-drop fishing, this is an experience that will leave you hooked.
Final Thoughts
Catching black cod at 1,700+ feet taught me that fishing isn’t always about brute force or flashy action. Sometimes it’s about patience, precision, and trusting your team. Sitka, Alaska gave us a fishing story we’ll be talking about for years.
Wanna go?
I am planning an adventure next year for Sweeney's friends and family. If you are interested to travel with like-minded people looking to have a blast fishing Alaska waters, respond to this email and I'll start putting together the group. We have to book early to get the best captains and fishing dates.
Let me know.
Tight lines,
Alex @ Sweeney’s Sports
2nd Annual Striper Meetup at Sweeney’s Sports is Tomorrow!
Event Details:
When: Friday, September 12th, 6pm-9:30pm
Where: Sweeney’s Sports, Napa, CA
Cost: Free entry (optional food/drink purchase available)
Featured Agenda:
Striper Trolling How-To with Alex Osenenko. Learn the ins and outs of trolling techniques, rod setups, and must-have gear to target stripers on our local waters.
Casting with Jerk Baits with Axel Herredia. Axel will break down how to effectively cast jerk baits for striped bass, sharing his go-to lures, rods, and retrieve tips.
Striped Bass Association Presentation with Ken Baccetti. Hear from a leading conservation voice about striper populations, conservation efforts, and how anglers can make a difference.
🎣 Whether you’re looking for expert tips, a chance to meet like-minded anglers, or an excuse to spend the evening surrounded by fishing gear, this event has you covered.
👉 Spots are limited — RSVP now to save yours!
Live Bait Update
In-Stock
Medium Minnows
XL Minnows
Grass Shrimp
Give Your Gear a Second Cast
Got old rods, reels, or tackle sitting around collecting dust? It's time to give your gear a second cast — and get rewarded in the process.
At Sweeney’s Sports in Napa, we’re now offering cash or store credit when you bring in your quality used fishing equipment as part of our growing Used Gear Buy Back Program. Whether you’re upgrading your setup, cleaning out the garage, or just want to trade unused gear for something fresh, we make it easy.
Why Trade In?
Get Cash or Store Credit — your choice. Store credit gets you the best value, but we’re happy to pay cash for eligible gear.
Support Local Anglers — your used gear gets a new life in the hands of someone who’ll actually use it.
Help the Planet — reduce waste and keep great equipment in circulation instead of the landfill.
Make Room for What’s Next — clear out old gear and get ready for your next big catch.
What We’re Looking For
We’re buying rods, reels, tackle, fly gear, and select accessories that are in good working condition. Think quality over quantity — if it’s something you’d still fish with, chances are someone else would too.
How It Works
Bring your gear to the shop – anytime we’re open.
We’ll inspect it within a few days and give you a no-pressure offer.
You choose cash or store credit
It’s quick, it’s easy, and it helps build a stronger fishing community.
Bonus: Trade-In Fridays
Want the best deals? Swing by on Trade-In Fridays — our new drop-in days where you can bring gear, hang out with fellow anglers, and score exclusive trade-in bonus.
Catch Of The Month Contest
Win a $30 gift card!
Show us your most impressive fishing moment by tagging @sweeneys_sports in your Instagram post or story. The grand prize? A $30 gift card and a feature on our social networks! 🏅.
📸 Cast your entry by sharing your photo and get ready to be a part of our winner's circle .
Let's make waves together! 🌊
P.S. We’re excited to announce the launch of ShopSweeneys.com!
Why shop on https://www.shopsweeneys.com/? Besides supporting your local shop,
Competitive Pricing and Vast Inventory
Ships Fast from our Warehouse in Sacramento
Buy Online, Return to the Store
Free Shipping for Orders Over $50 (some restrictions apply)
As always,
We truly appreciate every time you walk through our doors. Thank you for choosing to spend your hard-earned dollars with us. It's a privilege to be of service.
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