Nestled on the Kenai Peninsula, 120 miles south of Anchorage, lies the picturesque town of Seward, Alaska. Once the ancestral home of the Alutiiq people, Seward is now known for its breathtaking landscapes, from towering fjords to majestic glaciers. The area teems with diverse wildlife, offering 13 types of wild game and waterfowl, as well as over 10 varieties of fish and shellfish.
From May to October, Seward draws in countless anglers, eager to experience its renowned fishing waters. The summer months see the fishing docks bustling with excitement as hopeful anglers, many on booked charters, await the thrill of reeling in their big catch. Among these fishing charters, J. Dock Fishing Company stands out.
Founded in 2005 by Kamell Allaway, affectionately known as “The Duke,” J. Dock Fishing was born from a desire to offer a first-class fishing experience in Seward’s stunning surroundings. Today, the Allaway family proudly carries on Kamell’s legacy, sharing their passion for fishing and commitment to providing high-quality, wild-caught seafood to their customers. Operating from May to September, J. Dock offers a variety of charter experiences tailored to the different fishing seasons. Additionally, they sell only the freshest catch, free from chemicals or additives, which they proudly regard as a superfood—rich in nutrients and flavor. An average season sees J. Dock processing around 200,000 pounds of sports-caught fish and 20,000 pounds of commercially caught fish, which are either sold locally or shipped to eager customers across the country.
As the summer season winds down and the cooler months settle in, life in Seward, and for the J. Dock crew, slows to a more relaxed pace. Kristyn Allaway-Stickel, a member of the Allaway family, explains this seasonal shift beautifully:
“We’re a bit like the bears in Seward—when winter comes, we tend to hibernate. People don’t get out as much, which is why gatherings with family and friends become so important during this time.”
At these family gatherings, it’s tradition for the fishermen to bring the seafood, while the hunters provide the game. Kristen fondly recalls holiday memories of pairing freshly cooked salmon with a delicious curry sauce, a recipe passed down from her father.
As New Year’s Eve approaches, the people of Seward come together once again, this time on the beach. They gather around fires, awaiting the town’s annual fireworks display, a tradition that lights up the sky as they welcome the new year. In a town where celebrations are few due to the harsh winter weather, these moments are cherished—a time to connect with loved ones, swap stories, and honor the memories of those who have made the holidays so special.
During the holiday season, amid the hustle of shopping and the sweet smell of freshly baked cookies, it’s easy to get swept up in the chaos. But in these moments, it’s important to slowdown and appreciate the memories being made—memories that can often slip by unnoticed but will be cherished for years to come. Take a moment to fire up the grill with Grandpa or Dad, or spend time in the kitchen, making something special from scratch with Grandma or Mom. After all, Christmas isn’t about the gifts we receive, but the gift of family and friends that we are so fortunate to have.
J.Dock Website: J-DOCK Halibut & Salmon Fishing Charters in Seward Alaska (jdockcompany.com)
THE WILDWOOD EXPERIENCE
