Written by A deep-sea fish, the sablefish, also known as the black cod, lives in the muddy sea bottoms of the North Pacific Ocean. Fishermen catch the sablefish in depths of 750 to 3500 feet. Due to the great depths, professional fishermen should only use long lines and nets to catch black cod. You now have the opportunity to experience sablefish sport fishing in Sitka, Alaska!
How and Where to Fish for the Black Cod?
- Located on the Outer Coast of Sitka
To catch black cod, we must be able to go out to the Alaska Panhandle’s outer shore, where Sitka, Alaska, is located. We’ll be out in 700 feet of water after a 60-90 minute boat voyage (depending on ocean conditions).
- Conditions of the Sea and Wind
Beyond 700 feet of water, we can only venture out to fish for black cod if the circumstances are right. This deep-water fishing requires calm seas and mild breezes.
- Aim for a Depth of 600-700 Feet While Securing Your Anchor
A few years ago, the only method to capture these deep-sea fish was to snag a bonus black cod when deep-sea halibut fishing. Anglers would sometimes catch a few halibut or king salmon while anchored out in 600-700-foot depths searching for the fish.
As part of their normal migratory cycle, the black cod would sometimes reach depths of 600 to 700 feet. The deep-water current worked to the advantage some of the time, transporting the bait fragrance down into the continental shelf. Every 2-3 halibut, 1-2 king salmon, and 2-3 spiny dog sharks were captured and released which yielded one black cod.
When the black cod are in the region, and there is a strong smell of bait traveling out to the depths, this fishing approach (anchoring in 600-700 ft) can be pretty fruitful.
One can only crank up a fish from 600 to 700 feet manually so many times, though. However, getting your first fish on the line isn’t all that horrible. When you get to the second fish, you feel the pinch. How about a third and fourth go-round?
- Electric Reels Have Revolutionized the Industry
If you’re going to catch more fish, dive deeper, especially if it is a deep-sea fish, such as black cod. Black cod get larger the farther into the ocean one travels.
It was a game-changer when we installed electric reels on each of our boats this winter. We may now go out and look for them without having to worry about the depth of the search.
You can use the same gear and techniques as when fishing on the continental shelf when halibut fishing.
- Drifting Across the Depths of the Ocean
When fishing in waters deeper than 800 feet, you are almost always drifting. In order to prevent your lines from snagging too far behind the boat, it’s best to keep one of the outboards running when drifting. Using bigger (3 to 4 lb) lead weights also aids in lowering baits more quickly and reducing scope in the line.
A sea anchor can also be used when fishing in the deep sea. By using the sea anchor, you are able to slow down the boat’s drift and maintain your lines in a straight line.
- 1400-To-1800-Foot-Deep Seas
If you want to catch black cod, you’ll want to fish in waters between 1400 and 1800 feet deep. Other species of fish, such as the shortraker rockfish, may be found at depths of 900-1300 feet (another excellent tasting fish).
- The World’s Tastiest Fish
If black cod weren’t delicious, catching it would be no purpose. Butterfish, also known as black cod, is widely sought for its buttery flavor and flaky texture. It’s what you’d find at a fine dining establishment.
White as snow, the black cod filet has big, delicate flakes of fat on it. It’s possible to cook the filets in various ways, from grilling and smoking to frying and to serve them as sushi.
Omega-3 fats (fatty acids) are stored by black cod due to their extended life spans in Alaska’s chilly, deep waters. Black cod’s high omega-3 lipid content makes it one of the healthiest white flesh fish in the Pacific.
The Bottom Line
For the best results and an amazing experience, always go with a professional fishing charter. Not only do they know everything out there but also understand the sea condition and the wind.
Experts such as Action Alaska Sportfishing may also help you in preparing lures or gaffing a hooked fish. It includes everything from how to tie a hook to casting to the current season’s and state’s laws and restrictions.
The goal of a charter company isn’t just to help you catch fish or crabs, it’s also to teach you about ecology and the rules that regulate boating and fishing. To learn more you can call our sportfishing experts at (907)738-7311 today.