Bass Cast Radio

Mid-May brings prime time for hawg hunting, and Bruce Callis Jr. shares his battle-tested strategies for landing trophy bass when conditions get tough. In this episode, Bruce breaks down his three-pronged approach to May fishing success: explosive topwater action with SPRO Bronzeye and popping frogs, contact fishing with Texas-rigged Missile Baits soft plastics around laydowns and lily pads, and the underrated power of SPRO Fat John crankbaits in shallow water. From choosing between 65-pound Seaguar Smackdown braid for heavy cover to 20-pound AbrazX fluorocarbon for finesse presentations, Bruce emphasizes that "Fishing is a Contact Sport" - it's all about adapting your approach to the cover, conditions, and constantly moving fish. Perfect for anglers looking to step up their May fishing game and land more quality bass when the bite gets tough.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

On the latest episode of Bass Cast Radio, Geek & I discuss a letter written in  Fishing Tackle Retailer titled "Private Equity Gutted Surf Brands — Is Fishing Next?". This is one episode that we hope will make a small difference as we navigate this challenging season in the tackle industry. Discount Tackle PATREON add Free Member plus early release Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

Calvin sits down with Johnathan from Redbeard Outdoors to discuss the importance of staying physically fit in the outdoors.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

In this industry-focused episode of Bass Vault, we examine the surprising resurgence of traditional bass fishing techniques dominating 2025's professional tournament scene. The discussion analyzes how four of seven Bassmaster Elite Series events were won without forward-facing sonar, featuring victories like Bill Lown's swim jig approach, Brandon Palaniuk's cranking success, and Pat Schlapper's FFS-free grinder win. We explore factors driving this shift, including rule changes limiting FFS usage, diverse scheduling, and wetter spring conditions favoring shallow water fishing over suspended bass patterns. The episode breaks down how "scoping" encompasses various techniques beyond stereotypical presentations, discusses the role of unfamiliar venues in leveling the playing field, and celebrates the versatility returning to professional bass fishing while acknowledging that elite anglers will always adapt regardless of technology constraints.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

On this week's episode of Bass Cast Radio, Bass Geek gives the team a look at what he thought were some of the best takeaways & new items from 2025 ICAST. With boots on the ground, Geek was able to uncover the cool stuff that many people didn't talk about so that we could bring it to you. PATREONDiscount TackleBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

Calvin sits down and updates listeners on local weather and lake conditions. Calvin also explains some techniques he would use during this time of year. Calvin provides an overview of the events that have occurred in Bassmaster and MLF over the last week.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

On the latest episode of Bass Cast Radio, Thomas & Brian sit down & get you up to speed on what's been going on with him, locally & our thoughts on ICAST 2025. It's just one of those good old show discussions we love having at Bass Cas Radio & we hope you enjoy it. PATREONDISCOUNT TACKLEThank you all for your support Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

On this episode of Before the First Cast, Calvin sits down with Zach and discusses summer-time patterns and baits. We discuss upcoming events at the lake this fall.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

On the latest episode of Bass Cast Radio, Thomas and I sit down with professional angler David Miller to discuss the devastating fish & grass kill sweeping the USA & how we can reach out to our politicians to stop it—an eye-opening episode for any angler or even just someone who loves being outdoors, enjoying our water. Become a Patreon Member ACMTackle OnlineDISCOUNT TACKLEBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

On this episode of Before the First Cast, Calvin sits down and talks about fishing at night. Calvin will give some safety tips and lures to help you be successful at night.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

 On the latest episode of Bass Cast Radio, we discuss the latest show to hit the airwaves, and that is "The Bass Vault". A new podcast created from the content that you will find in our Newsletter "On The Line" from three great writers, Bruce Callis, Calvin Herdon & Carson Maddux. We have taken their content & tuned it into a five-minute podcast with the help of AI. Each Wed we drop a new episode & today we played you one of them episodes. We hope that you enjoy & please head on over to wherever you listen to podcasts & subscribe to The Bass Vault. PATREON ON The LIne The Bass Vault Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

On the latest episode of Bass Cast Radio, we sit down with Texas phenom Chad Mrazek & discuss his successful young career ($470,000) in winnings so far & two big wins to go with that. We wrap it all up by discussing his second-place finish at the MLF Tackle Warehouse event on the James River & discuss his GIANT final day bag that got him a 2nd place finish. This is one man you should have on your radar for the MLF Pro Series soon.Are You tired of commersial & woould also like to get your episodes on Sunday not Monday & support the Bass Cast. For a less than a pac of baits your can become a Patreon member just by clicking the link below. PATREON Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

Calvin sits down and breaks downs tips and tricks to stay safe in the summer time while fishing in the heat.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

On the latest episode of Bass Cast Radio the team sits down & discusses some of the topics that shaping tournament Bass Fishing in one of the craziest seasons yet.

Calvin sits down and explains what happens during June. Calvin gives his top 4 baits for June.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

On the latest episode of Bass Cast Radio, Thomas & I sit down with long-running MLF tournament director Kevin Hunt & discuss the upcoming Tackle Warehouse event on the James River. We dive into his long-time career with MLF & discuss the future. 

Calvin and Bruce sit down to discuss options between fishing from a boat, a kayak, or the bank.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

Join us as we sit down with the legendary Smallmouth Bass expert, Ryan Doll! Ryan shares his thrilling adventures traveling the world in pursuit of these stunning fish and reveals expert tips to help you land more smallmouth bass this summer, no matter where you fish. With his wealth of knowledge and incredible photos to back it up, Ryan breaks it all down in this must-listen episode. Follow him on Instagram @ryandoll82 for more fishing inspiration!Become a Patreon member today & get every episode a day early as well as add free, just click  here PATREONBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

Take a listen as the team sits down to discuss the changes that are taking place in the tackle industry. Robert Welch, a salesman with Pitman Creek Outdoors, watches over it all. Robert looks at the good, the bad, and how we should move forward as well as go back to past bait styles for the future. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

Calvin sits down and talks about early summer fishing. Calvin will give the secret of the locations where the bass congregate during the summer months. Calvin also gives his top baits to try in the summer months.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

On this week's episode of Bass Cast Radio, the team sits down & discusses the second biggest debate in tournament Bass fishing today. That is Kyak vs Bass boat tournament fishing 7, how we compare winnings as the price of it all keeps rising. Go add free & become a patron member by clicking the link PATREONBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

Calvin sits down and talks about the Major League Fishing Bass Pro tour Heavy Hitters on Smith Mountain Lake. He expresses his likes and dislikes about the event.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

On the latest episode of Bass Cast Radio & Bass Geek, we discuss the latest changes to the Bassmaster Elite Series, thoughts on the new FFS rules & where do we go from here. One episode that you don't want to skip, & after you listen, we would love to get your feedback. Subscribe to our Newsletter ON THE LINE 

Calvin, Cory, and Colin sit down and discuss how both Cory and Colin were introduced to fishing. They also discuss the college fishing season that is underway. Colin and Cory discuss some of the lessons they have learned in their fishing careers. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

Host Brian Carter, Thomas Arrons with Fishing DMV & Bass Geek welcome Charlottesville's Ewing Minor, fresh off a Tennessee kayak fishing win. They discuss his journey, the boat ramp shortage, bass boating costs, and kayak fishing's growth with Bassmaster. Plus, tournament updates. Looking to get into Kayak Bass Fishing well you found the right episode.

Calvin and Zach sit down and discuss how Zach got himself into fishing and where fishing has taken him in his life. Calvin and Zach discuss Zach other hobby of BMX and how he use the skills from BMX to relate it when he is fishing. Calvin and Zach go over their favorite last spring lure.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

In the latest episode of Bass Cast Radio, we hit the water with Bassmaster Elite angler Tucker Smith to dive into his impressive performance at Lake Hartwell. Tucker shares insights on his strong finish, life as a rookie on the Elite Series, and the challenges and thrills of competing at the highest level of professional bass fishing.

In this episode of Before The 1st Cast Podcast, Calvin shares his thoughts on the 2025 Bassmaster Classic, highlighting what he loved and what fell short. He then breaks down the essentials of bass fishing, offering practical tips and recommending the best baits for success in May.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

On this week's Bass Cast Radio, we sit down with professional angler James Watson to talk about what's happening in the world of competitive bass fishing today. James shares his thoughts on where the sport is headed and the changes he's seeing. We finish up our conversation by discussing his good friend and fellow pro, Scott Martin.

In the latest episode of Bass Cast Radio, we dive into the topic of tariffs with tackle company owners Austin Rohrer of Louis Lures and Danny Brazalo of Brazalo Custom Lures. They share how their businesses are navigating these challenges and offer insights on the potential long-term impacts on the industry if tariffs persist.Whether you're a bait manufacturer, tackle shop owner, or consumer, rising costs affect everyone. Here's hoping for a swift resolution.

On the latest episode of Bass Cast Radio, we catch up with Scott Gordon, the MC of the Big Bass Tour. Tune in as he takes us back in time, sharing some of his most memorable moments and a brief history of the event itself.

Your host, Calvin Herndon, welcomes special guest Billy Kohl to the show this week. Calvin and Billy sit down to discuss Billy's success of a 2nd and a 5th place finish on Smith Mountain Lake for the past Phoenix Bass Fishing League BFL. Billy discusses his game plan throughout his practice and on tournament day. Billy also reveals the baits that allowed him to be successful during the tournament.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

On the latest episode of Bass Cast Radio, I get to catch up with two great men Bryan Hendricks with the  Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, who has been an outdoor writer for decades & is well known in this space from the book she has written & the stories he can tell. Then Chauncey Niziol, the host of Chauncey's Great Outdoors on ESPN Radio, distributed it to thousands of people across the Chicago listening area. If you'd like to get early access and help support Bass Cast Radio, become a Patreon member now, and you'll save on your first month. Enter Code SPRING to get 25% off your 1st monthPATREONBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

Calvin sits down and gives pros and cons between kayak fishing and bass fishing. Calvin also explores why the kayak bass fishing is taking bass fishing by storm.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

On the latest episode of Bass Cast Radio, we sit down with two local Smith Mountain Lake sticks, Chad Green & Johnny Martin. We discuss the introduction of the Tiger Bass into SML & then we dive into what its like having & finding a great fishing partner. We finish it all up by discussing the first ever dirty 30 on SML. These two keep dropping so many records & achievements on SML & creating a season we will never forget. Want to cut out the commercials & get the show a day early? Then join our patreon & support what we do at Bass Cast Radio. When we hit 25 supporters, we will begin doing giveaways, so please tell your friends & click the patreon link below.PATREONBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

On the latest episode of Bass Cast radio the team sits down & discuss the 1st NPFL event of the 2025 season & some of the highlights. Then we dive in & discuss one of the latest videos from You-tuber Randy Blaukat with "Intuitive Angling & voice our opinion on "It's Sad To See What The Bassmaster Classic Has Turned Into…" So lets dive in & get your thoughts & opinions n this years classic & the future of professional bass fishing.Want to go add free as well as support whart we do here at Bass Cast Radio? Then click the link & starting supporting today for as little as a pack of plasticks your money will go a lonmg way in what we do here. PATREAONBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

Calvin and his guest Matt Harmon sit and talk about prespawn bass fishing on Smith Mountain Lake. Matt advises those fishing the pre-spawn on Smith Mountain and suggests some baits to try.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

On the latest episode of Bass Cast Radio, we sit down with local angler Charlie Davis and discuss the latest Bass he caught during a tournament on Smith Mountain Lake: his GIANT 10+ lb Bass. We break down the day as it unfolds, and believe it or not, this is not his largest Bass ever caught. So listen to the end, and you can learn more than we know about "Big Stick" Charlie Davis.Click the link below to become a Patreon member today, go commercial-free, and support what we do here at Bass Cast Radio.PATREONBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

Calvin sits down and explains to listeners the bass pattern shift for the month of March. Calvin gives the viewers and listeners a sneak peek of what he will be throwing in March.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

After years of stocking Tiger Bass in Smith Mountain Lake, the efforts of local investors and Game & Fish are paying off. We talked with seasoned tournament angler and local guide Chad Green about the lake's thriving ecosystem and the monster bass lurking beneath the surface.Want to go commercial-free as well as receive the show on Sundays instead of Mondays? Click the link to become a Patreon Member!PatreaonBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

Calvin and Alex discuss his passion for fishing and where it all started. They also discuss the art of kayak fishing and his future plans for his YouTube channel.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

In early 2025, after seeing multiple disqualifications in the Bassmaster Elite series, we decided to tackle the controversial "Information Rule." We explain what the official rule says according to Bassmaster's own definition. Then we analyze what happened with Scott Martin, who was disqualified at his home waters of Lake Okeechobee for supposedly getting early information.We want to hear what you think! Is this rule too vague? Are the penalties too harsh? Join our discussion about where to draw the line between fair preparation and breaking the rules in professional bass fishing.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Are you a Patreon member? Click to join now & get early access to all shows as well as add free episodes. PatreonBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

In this episode, in honor of Valentine's Day, Calvin invites his wife Savannah to be a guest on the show and explain the early days of dating to prioritizing faith, family, and fishing. The two also discuss hard decisions that had to be made and other ways to get involved with fishing.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

In this episode of The Bass Cast Radio, professional angler James "World Wide" Watson exposes the biggest mistakes made by major tournament organizations, including B.A.S.S. (Bassmaster), Major League Fishing (MLF), and the National Professional Fishing League (NPFL).He discusses their failures to grow the sport, lack of transparency, and the suppression of competitors' voices in decision-making processes.In this candid interview, James "World Wide" Watson shares his insights on the shortcomings of major fishing tournament organizations.He highlights how B.A.S.S., MLF, and NPFL have hindered the sport's growth, lacked transparency, and restricted anglers' ability to voice their opinions.Watson's firsthand experience offers a unique perspective on the challenges facing professional fishing today.

Calvin sits downs and discusses bass movement and areas to catch bass in the month of February.

On the latest episode of Bass Cast Radio we sit down with the owner of "Just Rig It" Paul Gring & discuss what is taking place in the world of fishing electronics & how it will affect the future of fishing. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support.

On the latest episode of Before the 1st Cast, we sat down with VA angler Jared Ward & listened as he dove deep into a catch of a lifetime. Jared reeled in a giant 10lb bass on the Smith Mountain Lake as he & his brother were just out fun fishing. Jared is no stranger to landing giant bass he won the Big Bass Tour on Smith Mountain Lake in 2022 when he won the fall event with an 8.62. This episode should be shared with anyone who loves Giant Bass. 

Tune in to the latest Bass Cast Radio where we welcome Dave Miller for an engaging discussion about the first Bassmaster Open of the 2025 season. Plus, our team shares their insights on the opening MLF Bass Pro series event. The tournament season is underway, and we're excited to kick off the conversations about what's ahead.

On the latest episode of Bass Cast Radio, we sit down with VA native Chase Clark & discuss his career as a professional angler. Then we break down one of the biggest wins of his career on Clarks Hill at the 1st 2025 Bassmaster Open Win. We break down brush down fishing & much more. What a great conversation, that we believe will make you a better angler.

On today's episode, Calvin sits down with his guest Carson Maddux a former member of the Auburn University Bass Fishing Team. Calvin and Carson discuss their thoughts on the upcoming College Bass season and get his thoughts on the changes that have happened with College fishing.

Calvin sits down and breaks down his January bait selection for the northern and Southern regions of the country.