top of page

What’s New from Okuma for 2026


Hello friends,


In this edition, we'll be covering:


  • New gear from Okuma

  • WISH - What's New in the Shop

  • 2nd Annual Striper Meetup at Sweeney's Sports

  • Live Bait Update 

  • Give Your Gear a Second Cast

  • Catch of the Month Contest


Okuma’s 2025 Gear: Lightweight Power and Innovation for Serious Anglers



At this year’s trade show, I stopped by the Okuma booth to get hands-on with their latest rods and reels. Okuma is known for balancing affordability, reliability, and performance—and this lineup is no exception. Here’s a breakdown of what’s new, what’s been improved, and why you should be excited.


Rockaway SI Reels

Okuma’s Rockaway SI is designed for surf and inshore anglers looking for a lightweight, smooth, and well-sealed reel. The big change? They’ve eliminated the front selector to prevent saltwater intrusion.

  • Sizes & Specs: 3000 (18 lbs drag), Compact 5000 (24 lbs drag)

  • Price: $99.99 for smaller sizes; $109.99 for the 5000

  • Why It’s Cool: The compact frame and high drag make it perfect for halibut, surf perch, and striped bass fishing without adding bulk.


Rockaway SP Rod Series

These rods are purpose-built for surf perch but versatile enough for other light tackle applications.

  • Features: 2-piece design, ultra-lightweight, highly sensitive, casts up to 1.5 oz comfortably

  • Lengths: 8’6”, 9’, 10’, and 11’ models

  • Price: Around $90

  • Pro Tip: Pair with the Rockaway SI for a balanced, responsive setup.


Safyre Reels

A great crossover reel for freshwater anglers who occasionally fish brackish or saltwater.

  • Highlights: Front selector for backpedaling, robust yet freshwater-focused build

  • Price: $90

  • Ideal For: Drift fishing rivers, bass fishing, or multipurpose setups.


Avenger Series Refresh

The classic Avenger is back with a facelift and two new colors (blue and pink) in addition to the original.

  • Why It Stands Out: Affordable, smooth, and incredibly reliable—perfect for anglers of all levels.


Tesoro Lever Drag Jigging Reels & Rods

Okuma is leaning into the slow-pitch and vertical jigging craze.

  • Tesoro Reel Specs:

    • 46 lbs drag with dual-force drag system

    • Triple anti-reverse system

    • Spool lockout for easy snag break-offs

    • Price: $450

  • Rod Pairings: Speed Jigging and Slow Pitch models, both under $200

  • Line Recommendation: 40–50 lb braid for versatility


Okuma’s 2025 lineup combines innovative design with price points that make upgrading accessible. Whether you’re surf fishing for perch, jigging deep for lingcod, or looking for a classic workhorse reel, these products are worth checking out.

Visit us at Sweeney’s Sports to get your hands on these new models and see for yourself why they’re generating so much buzz.


Tight lines,

Alex @ Sweeney’s Sports

What's New in the Shop



P-Line Predators are back just in time for Striper season on Napa River. This means only one thing.


The Wild Things are Baaack!!!


We were completely sold out for weeks, as P-Line was fixing their manufacturing mold. They promised to be back in production in September, and they delivered.


We ordered a ton, in all available colors.


Sweeney's hats are Back!


We just got an order of 100s of Sweeney's branded hats. Stop by a check them out.



2nd Annual Striper Meetup at Sweeney’s Sports



At Sweeney’s Sports, fishing isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way of life. Join us as we kick off Napa River striper season with our 2nd Annual Striper Meetup!


Meet and swap stories with fellow anglers, get insider tips from the pros, explore the latest striper gear, and take advantage of exclusive in-store specials.


And if you’re hungry, stick around for our optional pulled pork sandwiches and refreshing drinks—perfect fuel for a day of fishing talk.


About the event


Whether you’re a seasoned striper angler or just curious about catching Striped Bass on the Napa River—or beyond—this event is for you!


What to Expect:


  • Meet Fellow Anglers: Connect with others who share your passion for fishing.

  • Explore the Latest Gear: Check out cutting-edge tackle and tools for striped bass fishing.

  • Learn & Share: Exchange tips, tricks, and locations for targeting stripers.

  • Stay Informed: Discuss the latest Fish & Wildlife regulations and updates.

  • Enjoy Great Food & Drinks: Oso Moody’s BBQ will be serving freshly smoked pulled pork sandwiches with coleslaw, paired with beers and wines (optional food & drink ticket available for $30).

  • Plan Future Adventures: Help us organize group fishing trips and events.

  • Shape Our Inventory: Share your input on the products and gear you'd like to see in the shop.


Cost & Registration:

  • Free Admission: The meetup is free to attend, but prior registration is required.

  • Optional Food & Drink Ticket: For $30, enjoy a delicious BBQ meal and drinks.


Join us as we celebrate the sport of fishing, share knowledge, and build a stronger angling community. Together, we can make every cast more rewarding!

Space is limited, so register now to reserve your spot. We can’t wait to see you there!


📅 Date: September 12, 2025

Location: Sweeney’s Sports, Napa


Register Now for Free.


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


  1. Bring your gear to the shop – anytime we’re open.

  2. We’ll inspect it within a few days and give you a no-pressure offer.

  3. 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,


  1. Competitive Pricing and Vast Inventory

  2. Ships Fast from our Warehouse in Sacramento

  3. Buy Online, Return to the Store

  4. 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.  

Comments


napa river fishing in the morning

Weekly Fishing Reports and Outdoor News in your Inbox

Thank you. The next newsletter will land in your inbox on Thursday.

bottom of page