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Is there really more than one species of smallmouth bass? This week on Outdoor Journal Radio, the crew dives into groundbreaking research suggesting the fish we all know may actually be made up of four distinct evolutionary lineages.Plus, University of Victoria PhD candidate Wesley Greenree joins the show to explain how everyday anglers are helping scientists study Chinook salmon by collecting stomach samples, revealing surprising changes in the Pacific food chain and what they could mean for the future of our fisheries.Also in this episode: Could British Columbia produce the next Canadian record largemouth bass? Clearing up misconceptions about Apple AirTags and Bluetooth tracking A fascinating Northern Ontario walleye tournament format Proper tick removal and Lyme disease prevention The latest Fishing Canada updates and new merchandise Whether you're a hardcore angler or just love learning about fish and conservation, this is one episode you won't want to miss.
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's episode. Dan Johnston talks about StCroix customer appreciation day June 20th in Park Falls, Wisconsin. Dave Kranz and Dan Johnston discuss the 10 year anniversary of the WeFishASA podcast!Bobby Dennis from Headhunter talks about new lures and being a WeFishASA podcast sponsor. Dave Kranz thanks podcast sponsors and recalls favorite podcast guests. Happy 10th anniversary. Thanks to all the listeners, guests and sponsors!
Send us Fan MailThis week on American Roots Outdoors, host Alex Rutledge and Redbone Rick sit down with 2024 RiverMasters Elite Series Classic Champion Rick York to break down everything you need to know about chasing river smallmouth bass in the Ozarks. Rick shares how these fish think like predators, where they hold in current, what they eat, and exactly how to present your baits to trigger strikes — from down baits and tube jigs to crankbaits and spinnerbaits. We also cover current events, the CRSA tournament results, Missouri's Free Fishing Weekend, and the first 2026 RiverMasters Elite Series tournament at Doniphan. Plus, stay for the bonus segment featuring fish fry recipes, a trout fishing report from the Eleven Point River, and more fun with the crew.Chapter Markers added:1:18 – Welcome & Current Events10:42 – Meet Rick York – 2024 RiverMasters Classic Champion19:09 – River Smallmouth: Behavior, Habitat & Diet27:53 – Smallmouth Fishing Techniques & Lure Presentation35:39 – Wrap-Up & River Masters Tournament Preview37:32 – Bonus: Recipes, Trout Fishing & Tournament TalkMissouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
MLF angler and renowned Lake St. Clair guide Scott Dobson joins Bass U Live to break down his approach to catching giant smallmouth bass. From locating schools and understanding seasonal movements to his favorite baits, setups, and on-the-water adjustments, Scott shares the techniques that have made him one of the top smallmouth specialists in the game. Whether you're chasing bronzebacks on the Great Lakes or your local fishery, this episode is packed with tips you can use to catch more smallmouth this season.
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, I sit down with local angler Matt Fauver to discuss his journey into smallmouth bass fishing on the Upper Potomac River and his growing passion for tournament kayak fishing.First things first—I owe everyone an apology for this episode being released later than planned. After spending way too much time troubleshooting camera lag issues, I finally discovered the culprit: a dying camera battery! Thankfully, the technical problems are behind us because this conversation was absolutely worth the wait.Matt is relatively new to targeting smallmouth bass on the legendary Upper Potomac River, and it was refreshing to hear a beginner's perspective on learning one of the East Coast's premier river fisheries. We dive into what attracted him to chasing bronzebacks, the challenges of learning a new fishery, and the lessons he's picked up while fishing one of the best smallmouth bass rivers in the Mid-Atlantic.We also discuss the rapidly growing world of kayak bass fishing tournaments, including what it's like getting started, the gear and mindset needed to compete, and why kayak fishing continues to attract anglers from all experience levels. Whether you're considering your first kayak tournament or looking to improve your river fishing skills, Matt shares valuable insights from someone currently living the learning process.Topics discussed in this episode include:• Upper Potomac River smallmouth bass fishing • Beginner bass fishing tips and lessons learned • Kayak bass fishing fundamentals • Tournament kayak fishing strategies • River fishing techniques for smallmouth bass • Seasonal patterns on the Upper Potomac River • Fishing shallow rocky rivers from a kayak • Learning new fisheries as a bass angler • Potomac River bass fishing opportunities • Smallmouth bass behavior and habitat • Kayak tournament preparation and equipment • How new anglers can get started in competitive fishingIf you're interested in smallmouth bass fishing, kayak fishing, river fishing, bass fishing for beginners, or learning more about the legendary Upper Potomac River fishery, this is an episode you won't want to miss.Please support Fishing the DMV by subscribing, sharing this episode with a fellow angler, and leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform.Please support Fishing the DMV on Patreon!! https://patreon.com/FishingtheDMVPodcastIf you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at fishingtheDMV@gmail.com LMD Enterprises: http://lmdoil.com/ Jake's bait & Tackle Website: http://www.jakesbaitandtackle.com/ Link to Tactical Fishing Company: https://tacticalfishingco.com/ Fishing Pro Tech: https://www.facebook.com/FishingProTech Phone Number: (757) 566-1278 Email: lin@fishingprotech.us Fishing Pro Tech Address: 7812-A Richmond Road, Toano, VA, United States, 23168 Flint Financial Planning: https://www.flintfinancialplanning.com/Support the show
Send us Fan Mail Alex Rutledge and Redbone sit down with Chef Corey Freeman — a Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef, apple orchard owner, and passionate hunter on a mission to harvest a wild turkey in all 49 states. Corey shares what it was like cooking at turkey camp alongside Tyler Farr, breaks down his Japanese-inspired wild turkey karaage don, apple cider glazed pork chops, and fire-grilled tomahawk steaks and wagyu. He talks about the pressures of hunting public land, the art of sounding different than every other hunter in the woods, and why slowing down — especially in the woods with his four-year-old daughter — has become his greatest harvest. Plus: a big announcement about turkey camps with Tyler Farr, and a bonus segment with Corey's smoked ricotta quail egg ravioli recipe straight from Italy.1:46 – Show Open & Local News10:01 – Meet Chef Corey Freeman – Hunting Chef Chasing 49 States10:29 – Taher Food Service & Cooking from Scratch in Schools16:35 – Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chop Recipe19:59 – Turkey Camp with Tyler Farr – Karaage Don & Tomahawk Steaks27:26 – Turkey Hunting Tactics & The Chase for 49 States30:08 – Best Hunt of the Spring – Corey's Daughter & Two-State Day33:03 – Turkey Camps with Tyler Farr Announcement39:55 – Bonus Segment – Smoked Ricotta Quail Egg Ravioli RecipeMissouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
Episode OverviewIn this Pennsylvania Smallmouth Report on The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash reconnects with Captain Brian Shumaker of Susquehanna River Guides for an early-June conditions check on the Susquehanna and Juniata rivers in Central Pennsylvania. Recent heavy rainfall pushed both systems well above normal — the Susquehanna approaching 12 feet, the Juniata topping 10 — and Brian breaks down how he's fishing the receding flows and what anglers can expect as the post-spawn transition plays out through summer.Brian walks through his high-water strategy in practical terms: pounding banks where rising water has pushed smallmouth tight to structure, reading fish mood through fly rotation, and knowing when to abandon streamers in favor of crayfish patterns on the bottom when visibility collapses. He explains his color logic for stained water — bigger profiles, darker tones when the water is heavily colored, lighter options as clarity returns — and how he uses river gauge readings in feet rather than CFS to make positioning decisions on the water. The conversation also looks ahead to the summer outlook, contrasting the good-conditions scenario if periodic rains continue with the low, clear, finesse-game reality that sets in by mid-July in a dry year, and confirms that Fourth of July remains the reliable benchmark for prime topwater smallmouth fishing with poppers on the Susquehanna system.Key TakeawaysHow to keep smallmouth in play during high flows by targeting bank structure where rising water has concentrated fish.Why fly color selection should track water clarity — blacks and purples in heavy stain, transitioning to olives and lighter colors as visibility improves.When to commit fully to bottom-fished crayfish patterns rather than continuing to work streamers in severely off-color conditions.How Brian Shumaker uses river gauge height in feet — not CFS — as his primary decision tool for positioning anglers relative to bank structure and grass beds.Why rotating through as many as a dozen and a half fly patterns in a single session is sometimes necessary to crack the post-spawn "June funk."When to expect prime topwater action on the Susquehanna system, and how a dry summer shifts the game to long casts, stealth and finesse presentations by mid-July.Techniques & Gear CoveredBrian Shumaker's approach to high, dirty water on the Susquehanna and Juniata centers on two core tactics: larger-profile streamers fished tight to bank structure and mid-river features, and crayfish patterns worked on the bottom when visibility drops low enough to make streamer fishing inefficient. Fly color selection is deliberately calibrated to water clarity — blacks and purples in the dirtiest conditions, with oranges, olives and lighter tones becoming viable as the water clears. Brian notes he doesn't rely heavily on rattles despite the conditions, keeping his confidence in profile and color adjustments instead. On the topwater front, he and Marvin discuss poppers, Murdich Minnows and Shimmering Minnows as the primary summer surface and near-surface options once fish fully exit the post-spawn doldrums. Across the board, Brian emphasizes a high-volume fly rotation — sometimes six flies on a good day, sometimes eighteen — as the diagnostic tool for reading fish mood under the unpredictable early-summer conditions.Locations & SpeciesThis report centers on two of Central Pennsylvania's premier smallmouth systems: the Susquehanna River and the Juniata River. Recent rainfall events pushed the Susquehanna to nearly 12 feet and the Juniata past 10 feet; at recording time the Susquehanna had receded into fishable shape with good water from the west bank to mid-river, while the east side remained off-color and the Juniata was still heavily stained but dropping. The target species throughout is smallmouth bass, with fish spread across a spectrum of post-spawn recovery stages in early June — some already fully recovered, others still normalizing. Brian's outlook for late July and early August hinges on whether the eastern seaboard's dry pattern reasserts itself: adequate rainfall means prime conditions, while a dry stretch could produce bony, clear, low-water rivers by mid-July that demand a completely different approach.FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredHow do you approach streamer fishing when the Susquehanna or Juniata is running high and dirty?Brian Shumaker focuses on a bigger fly profile and adjusts color based on how much stain is in the water. In the heaviest color, blacks and purples are his go-to; as visibility improves, he moves toward olives and lighter tones. He targets banks where rising water has pushed fish tight to structure, while also covering mid-river features when conditions allow.When is it time to abandon streamers and go to crayfish on the bottom?When water is severely off-color and visibility is minimal, Brian moves straight to crayfish patterns fished on the bottom. In those conditions, the streamer game becomes inefficient, and a bottom presentation where fish are holding near structure is the more reliable path to bites.How does Brian use river gauge readings to make fishing decisions?Brian tracks both rivers by height in feet — old school, as he puts it, rather than CFS — which tells him where the water sits relative to bank structure. That reading determines whether he needs to fish hard against the bank or can pull off slightly, and on the Susquehanna it factors in whether emerging grass beds are worth targeting as conditions clear.What should anglers expect from the post-spawn "June funk" on Pennsylvania smallmouth rivers?The June post-spawn period produces inconsistent fish behavior as smallmouth recover and begin feeding more actively. Brian describes it as a rotation game — he may cycle through six flies on a cooperative day and eighteen on a tough one, simply working through options until something triggers a response. Patience and a deep fly selection are the keys.When does reliable topwater smallmouth fishing begin on the Susquehanna, and what changes that timeline?Brian pegs the Fourth of July as the traditional start of prime topwater action with poppers and surface patterns. That holds if periodic rainfall keeps flows reasonable through summer. A dry stretch that leaves the river bony, skinny and clear by mid-July shifts the game entirely — long casts, stealth and finesse presentations replace the aggressive topwater bite.Related ContentS8, Ep 31 – Chasing Smallmouth: Brian Shumaker's Adaptations for Unpredictable Spring WeatherS8, Ep 27 – The Pre-Spawn Puzzle: Captain Brian Shumaker's Tips for Pennsylvania SmallmouthS8, Ep 29 – Fishing in Flux: Matt Reilly's Take on Spring Trends and TechniquesS7, Ep 52 – The Summer Shift: Adapting Your Fly Game with Brendan RuchS1, Ep 97 – All Things Smallmouth with Mike SchultzConnect with Our GuestFollow Brian on Facebook and Instagram.Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.Join our Patreon community to support the show.If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.Subscribe & AdvertiseSubscribe to the podcast...
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's episode. St Croix Ambassador Mark Hanson talks about the rods he use on his recent Canadian trip. Joe Opager Senior Director of Communications for MLF gives us a mid season update. Jack Story wins 100,000.00 payday and entry to the 2027 RedCrest tournament. He will tell us how he got that job done!
On this episode of The Wisconsin Sportsman, Pierce is joined by Tony Peterson to dive into the world of Mississippi River smallmouth fishing! Tony is an outdoor writer, public land hunter, and Minnesota-native who grew up hunting and fishing around the Mississippi River, since then he's competed in countless bass tournaments both on the river and around the Midwest. In this episode, the guys dive into finding big trout in unclassified waters, how to break down the Mississippi into manageable chunks, fish consciousness, types of structure smallmouth are likely to relate to, different lures for different types of water, the importance of non-intrusive fishing, and much more. If you're ready for a new kind of fishing adventure this summer, this episode is for you! Huge thanks to Tony for coming on the show! Check out the great podcasts he's putting out over on the Wired to Hunt: Foundations podcast, and if you're looking for a great summer read, pick up a copy of his book, Bowhunting Public Land Whitetails to gear up for fall! Big thanks to our fantastic partners: Lone Wolf Custom Gear: www.lonewolfcustomgear.com onX Hunt: www.onxmaps.com Huntworth: www.huntworthgear.com Good Chance Fly Fishing: www.goodchanceflyfishing.com Wisconsin Backcountry Hunters & Anglers: www.backcountryhunters.org/wisconsin Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Episode OverviewIn this Southwest Virginia Fishing Report on The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash checks in with guide Matt Reilly of Matt Reilly Fly Fishing for a candid late-spring conditions update covering the post-spawn transition, dirty water tactics and the seasonal arc ahead. Recorded amid rising, stained flows on the New River and surrounding drainages — following months of below-average flows — the episode captures a moment when Southwest Virginia smallmouth fishing is firmly in between patterns, and angler adaptability is the only reliable edge. Reilly addresses the dual pressure facing anglers right now: a post-spawn funk settling over fish on some waters while others remain slightly earlier in that arc, and high, off-color water shrinking reactive distances and pushing fish to the bottom. He details how an early crayfish molt — triggered by unusually warm water temps in the low-to-mid 70s weeks ahead of schedule — has shifted his focus away from streamer presentations and toward bottom-contact crayfish patterns on fish that are otherwise visible but unmovable on top. Reilly also previews the seasonal calendar ahead, sketching the transition through a late-May/June baitfish bite, crayfish activity and eventually the cleaner, lower-water conditions that make topwater the dominant game — typically not until around the Fourth of July. Guide availability closes the episode, with Reilly noting his summer calendar is fully booked and early October representing the next realistic opportunity for prospective clients.Key TakeawaysHow to identify the post-spawn funk by its signature symptom: cycling rapidly through multiple fly types with sporadic, pattern-less catches.Why bottom-contact crayfish patterns outperform streamers and topwater when smallmouth are locked down during an early crayfish molt.How to approach high, stained water when flows are elevated but not extreme — targeting the bottom rather than automatically moving to the banks, because fish can spread across mid-river structure when current isn't pushing them to the edges.Why an early summer crayfish molt can pull even cruising, visible fish away from topwater presentations and onto gravel-bar bottom feeding.When to expect the seasonal transition to more consistent patterns: a late-May/June baitfish bite followed by bug-fishing conditions that typically don't fully materialize until around the Fourth of July.Techniques & Gear CoveredReilly runs multiple rods in the boat simultaneously — a floating line with a topwater bug, an intermediate-tip with a streamer and a floater rigged with a crayfish — to rotate through presentations efficiently when no single pattern dominates. In dirty, elevated water he emphasizes making bottom contact as the primary directive, noting that smallmouth research documents a behavioral shift toward bottom-oriented hunting when turbidity increases. Crayfish patterns are the anchor of his current program given the early molt activity, with darker, high-contrast and flashier fly choices appropriate for off-color conditions. Streamer fishing remains part of the rotation but Reilly is candid that listening to what the fish show you — even when it conflicts with your instinct — is the overriding tactical discipline during transitional windows.Locations & SpeciesThe episode centers on Southwest Virginia's river systems, with the New River specifically mentioned as the water Reilly was guiding on the day of recording. The New is described as deteriorating during the conversation — elevated and stained from recent rainfall — but holding up better than surrounding rivers that Reilly characterizes as borderline blown out. Smallmouth bass are the sole target species discussed. Conditions at time of recording include water temperatures already touching the mid-70s — well ahead of the typical early June arrival of such temps — and flow levels running significantly below seasonal averages for the year before recent rains, creating a compressed, accelerated seasonal arc that has pushed crayfish molt timing and post-spawn transitions out of seasonal norms.FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredHow do you know when you're in the post-spawn funk and what do you do about it?Reilly identifies the funk by a tell-tale pattern: you start with one fly, catch one fish, slow down, switch flies, catch another, slow down again, and end the day with six wet flies of five different types drying on the boat bag. When that's happening, he leans on instinct — reading the water type in front of him and putting his best guess forward — while staying honest about whether a presentation isn't working or just needs more time. He acknowledges it's sometimes simply tough and you have to grind through it.Why would you target the bottom in high, stained water rather than moving to the banks?When water is elevated but not high enough to concentrate fish in bank-side slack water, smallmouth can spread broadly across mid-river structure — and increased turbidity shrinks reactive distances significantly. Reilly points to behavioral research showing smallmouth shift to bottom-oriented hunting in dirty water. Getting a fly to the bottom gives fish a plane they can reliably relate to even when visibility is poor, and on the day of recording it was the only approach consistently producing.What triggers a crayfish molt and why does it pull fish off topwater?Early warm water — Reilly observed low-to-mid-70s temperatures weeks ahead of the typical mid- to late-June timing — accelerates crayfish shedding their shells, making them soft and highly vulnerable. Even smallmouth that would otherwise be ideal topwater candidates were cruising shallow gravel bars but locked to the bottom, unwilling to come up. Once you see that behavior, Reilly says you have to accept it and feed them crayfish regardless of how tempting topwater looks.When does consistent topwater fishing typically kick in for Southwest Virginia smallmouth?Reilly frames late May through mid-June as a transitional window featuring a baitfish bite (non-game fish like darters and chubs spawning, creating forage) interspersed with molting crayfish activity. Reliable topwater conditions — when it becomes the path-of-least-resistance strategy rather than just a fun option — typically don't arrive until water temperatures and flows settle in the summer, usually around the Fourth of July, assuming conditions don't remain abnormally low and clear even sooner.What does Matt Reilly's fall guide calendar look like, and what should you expect booking-wise?As of this recording Reilly's summer is fully booked, with early October being the next available window. He describes October as a mixed bag: possible hurricane-driven high water and strong streamer fishing, or a continuation of summer patterns depending on the year — but consistently a period when big fish show up in the first couple weeks before his focus shifts entirely to musky season.Related ContentS8, Ep 29 – Fishing in Flux: Matt Reilly's Take on Spring Trends and TechniquesS8, Ep 23 – Low Water Chronicles: Matt Reilly on Pre-Spawn Smallmouth Strategies and Seasonal ShiftsS6, Ep 112 – Smallmouth Transitions and Musky Prep: Matt Reilly's Southwest VA UpdateS6, Ep 71 – Adapting to Heat and Low Flows: A Southwest Virginia Fishing Report with Matt ReillyConnect with Our GuestFollow Matt on Instagram.Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.Join our Patreon community to support the show.If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our
Chris Lawrence previews an upcoming episode documenting the best fishing day of his life — a two-day Lake Erie smallmouth trip with Ed Powell that produced 75 to 100 fish, including multiple bass over four pounds — before settling into two guests with West Virginia river news. Pete Runyon of Friends of the Tug Fork River joins to update listeners on the group's annual Tug of War tire cleanup, which has now removed more than 19,000 tires from the river since 2019, along with new access improvements, a trash interceptor at Laurel Lake, and an upcoming youth paddle camp on June 6th. DNR Assistant Chief of Fisheries Dave Wellman then covers the Ohio River's current upswing in bass fishing, explaining how stable spring flows and mild winters over the past several years have improved recruitment and fish size, the challenge of silting backwater embayments that limit largemouth habitat, and the tools — stocking, habitat improvement, and regulation — the agency is currently evaluating to sustain and improve the fishery.
Send us Fan MailAlex Rutledge and Redbone welcome Kentucky Headhunters co-founder Richard Young straight from a tomato plant run in Glasgow, Kentucky. Richard delivers a masterclass in Southern storytelling — from brother Fred's midnight tractor rides and his collection of 50 antique machines with only 4 batteries, to the band's history-making leap from a Kentucky holler to Sweden Rock Festival (opening three slots before Queen) and sold-out UK arena runs alongside Blackstone Cherry. We also get into turkey hunting on the creek, a surprise bear sighting, and cousin Johnny's electric-bike stealth hunting strategy. After Richard heads off for tomato plants, Alex breaks down a monster spring turkey season — 29 gobblers called in across five states — plus a deep dive into Missouri's #2 national turkey harvest ranking. The show wraps with a full wild turkey recipe segment: BBQ breast with Cajun Injector, brine techniques, and Chick-fil-A-style turkey nuggets. The Kentucky Headhunters play Salem, Arkansas' Fulton County Homecoming (77 years strong) this Saturday night.Chapter Markers1:29 – Intro & Kentucky Headhunters Coming to Salem, AR1:55 – Richard Young Joins: Farm Life, Fred's Tractors & Garden Stories15:04 – Kentucky Headhunters Go International: Conquering Sweden Rock & the UK24:47 – Richard's Turkey Hunt, Bears on the Farm & Electric Bike Hunting29:46 – Wrapping Up with Richard Young30:57 – Life After the Spotlight: Alex & Redbone Reflect34:00 – Alex's Spring Turkey Season: 29 Gobblers in 5 StatesMissouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
We're back with the man who just quit his career in the fly fishing industry to become Beaver Lake's only full-time fly fishing guide. → Join other Ozarkers in our Patreon - The Holler → Get weekly updates, show notes, and stories in our NEWSLETTER Part two with Dan Roberts gets tactical — and it doesn't disappoint. Dan walks through exactly how to fly fish for crappie using a game-changing indicator setup, breaks down the pre-spawn and post-spawn bass bite, and reveals why spotted bass might be the most underrated fly fishing target in the Ozarks. Whether you're a beginner wanting a confidence-building species or a seasoned angler ready to chase topwater strikes, there's something here for every skill level. Together with... Vortex Optics - Industry leader in scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Maverik - Adventure's first stop in the Ozarks 0:00 – Recap & What We're Covering: Species & Tactics on Beaver Lake 1:30 – Crappie on the Fly: The Easiest Entry Point Into Still Water Fishing 5:30 – Dan's Secret Indicator Setup 10:00 – Bass Season Breakdown: Pre-Spawn Streamers to Post-Spawn Topwater 14:00 – Spotted Bass, Smallmouth & the Four Bass Species in Beaver Lake 20:00 – Walleye, White Bass & Everything Else Worth Chasing on the Fly What is The Ozark Podcast? In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker. Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett, and our producer is Daniel Matthews Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's episode. Dan Johnston talks about why new baits work. Tom Lang tells us how to participate in Take A Friend Fishing Month. Alex Davis just won 100,000.00 on Lay Lake! Listen to how he got that done.
Send us Fan MailAlex Rutledge wraps up his Turkey Tour of the Northeast, sharing stories from turkey hunts at First Class Whitetails in PA, a tough morning in Maryland with David Zook, and a close encounter on retired Eagles linebacker Trent Cole's New Jersey farm. Alex sits down live with Jason Lapp, National Sales Manager for 12 Point Hunting Blinds, at their headquarters in Gap, PA to unveil the brand-new Watchtower blind — an innovative hunting blind inspired by airport air traffic control towers. The guys also cover MLB standings, Missouri's spring turkey harvest numbers, Zook Cabins, the Hunting Plot Store's full habitat services, and cap it off with wild turkey recipes including Chick-fil-A style nuggets, smoked turkey breast, and the great Alfredo debate.Chapter Markers Added:0:00 – Intro: The Watchtower Blind Teaser1:47 – Show Opens: Live from 12 Point Hunting Blinds, Gap PA2:21 – Current Events: MLB Baseball Talk (Cardinals, Royals, Phillies)5:38 – Turkey Tour Northeast Recap: First Class Whitetails & Maryland Hunt7:35 – Missouri Spring Turkey Harvest Numbers19:31 – Segment 2: Zook Cabins & Maryland Turkey Hunt Story23:26 – Introducing the Watchtower: The New 12 Point Hunting Blind28:31 – Segment 3: 12 Point Blind Features, Warranty & Dealer Expansion40:10 – Segment 4: Wild Turkey RecipesMissouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
Episode OverviewIn this Pennsylvania Smallmouth Report on The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash reconnects with Captain Brian Shumaker of Susquehanna River Guides for a timely late-spring conditions check on the Susquehanna River system. The frog bite has been exceptional — two solid weeks of deer hair bug action — and Brian breaks down exactly how to rig, dress and present deer hair frogs for surface-eating smallmouth before the post-spawn funk sets in. Beyond the fishing report, Marvin turns the episode over to a listener question from Myles, a college angler eyeing a career in guiding, and Brian delivers a candid, experience-rich breakdown of how to break into and build longevity in the guide game. Brian's own path — 40-plus years as a union electrician running parallel to a decades-long guiding career on the Susquehanna, with Bob Clouser as a key early mentor — frames the conversation in practical terms. The dual-career model, the reality of weather-dependent income, the roughly 10-year timeline to build a dependable client base, and the value of humility with clients all get real treatment here. This episode delivers useful tactical information for smallmouth anglers targeting the frog bite while also offering one of the most grounded, experience-backed discussions of guide career structure the show has produced.Key TakeawaysHow to select and prepare deer hair frog patterns — including applying resin to the belly for proper orientation — to maximize floatation and presentation during the late-spring frog bite on Pennsylvania smallmouth rivers.Why the frog bite window is typically compressed into the first few weeks of May under normal conditions, and how unseasonable heat and weather swings can extend or disrupt that window.When to adjust expectations after the spawn: the first three weeks of June typically produce slower, more selective fishing as post-spawn fish recuperate, though early-spawn fish may already be active.How to build a dedicated leader system for deer hair frogs — an 8-foot tapered construction stepping from 40-pound to 16-pound with a barrel swivel — that turns large surface flies over cleanly.Why building a guide career alongside a stable parallel career is a realistic and financially sound path, with Brian's union electrician model illustrating how to stage the transition over roughly 10 years.How to break into guiding by starting through local fly shops, connecting with independent guides as mentors or attending a structured guide school — with humility and client service as the non-negotiable foundation.Techniques & Gear CoveredThe episode centers on top water fly fishing for smallmouth bass during the late-spring frog bite, with deer hair frogs — specifically the Umpqua swimming frog — as Brian's primary choice, supplemented by green blockhead poppers and green boogle bugs as accessible alternatives. Brian details his prep routine: applying resin to the belly of deer hair frogs to ensure the fly lands face-up, belly-down, and using a powder floatant (such as High and Dry) to maintain buoyancy throughout the day. For the leader, Brian constructs an 8-foot system stepping from 2 feet of 40-pound down through 30-pound and 25-pound sections, then 18 inches of 20-pound, a barrel swivel and an 18-inch tippet of 16-pound — a setup designed to turn over wind-resistant deer hair patterns without sacrificing control. His preferred fly line for the frog game is the Scientific Anglers Amplitude Bass Bug Taper, chosen for its ability to load quickly and deliver bulky flies accurately. The deer hair frog presentation is described as a highly visual game: the fly is watched throughout the retrieve, with the surface eat being the primary reward and tactical cue.Locations & SpeciesThe episode focuses on the Susquehanna River system in Central and South Central Pennsylvania, the home water of Susquehanna River Guides. Smallmouth bass are the exclusive target species discussed, specifically in the context of the late-spring frog bite and the post-spawn transition. Brian notes that under normal seasonal conditions, the frog bite runs from early to late May before the first three weeks of June bring slower, post-spawn fishing as fish recuperate from the spawn. The episode also touches on how erratic spring weather — extended heat waves followed by sharp cooldowns and potential rainfall — can compress or disrupt the frog window and push the spawn cycle off its typical rhythm. These conditions and species dynamics are broadly applicable to any angler fishing for smallmouth on mid-Atlantic river systems.FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredWhat is the best fly pattern and presentation for the late-spring smallmouth frog bite in Pennsylvania?Brian Shumaker's go-to is the Umpqua swimming frog, with green blockhead poppers and green boogle bugs as workable alternatives when deer hair patterns aren't available. He emphasizes that the frog game at this time of year is a visual experience — watching the fly, watching the eat — and that having the fly properly oriented (face-up, belly-down) through resin treatment and a powder floatant keeps the presentation clean and fishing effectively throughout a day on the water.How do you rig a leader for casting deer hair frog patterns on a fly rod?Brian builds an 8-foot tapered leader starting with 2 feet of 40-pound, stepping down through 2 feet of 30-pound and 2 feet of 25-pound, then 18 inches of 20-pound, a barrel swivel and a final 18-inch section of 16-pound tippet. The taper allows the heavy, wind-resistant deer hair fly to turn over cleanly, and the barrel swivel reduces line twist during the retrieve. He pairs this system with the Scientific Anglers Amplitude Bass Bug Taper fly line.How long does the frog bite window typically last for Pennsylvania smallmouth, and what ends it?Under normal conditions, Brian says the frog bite starts around the beginning of May and runs through the end of May — roughly a four-week window. Post-spawn funk among June fish and the shift to summer patterns typically close the most productive surface action. This year, an erratic spring with heat waves and sharp temperature drops has made the window less predictable, and incoming rainfall may affect how much of the frog bite remains.What is the best way to break into the fly fishing guide profession?Brian recommends starting by approaching local fly shops about guide training opportunities, or connecting with established independent guides who may be willing to take on a mentee. Guide schools — typically two-week programs often run in the West — provide certification that carries weight with outfitters. The most important qualities, in Brian's experience, are humility and a genuine commitment to the client experience. He credits Bob Clouser as a critical mentor in his own career, while acknowledging that not everyone will have access to that level of mentorship.How long does it realistically take to build a viable guiding career, and how do you manage financial risk along the way?Brian's honest answer is about 10 years to build a client base substantial enough to feel comfortable leaving a parallel career for the guiding season. He ran a union electrician career alongside his guiding work for decades, which gave him the flexibility to ramp up guiding progressively without the full financial exposure of going all-in immediately. He compares guiding to farming in terms of weather dependency — wet springs, low summer flows and drought conditions can all eliminate weeks of booked trips — and emphasizes that the income risk is real and not suited to everyone.Related ContentS8, Ep 31: Chasing Smallmouth: Brian Shumaker's Adaptations for Unpredictable Spring WeatherS8, Ep 27: The Pre-Spawn Puzzle: Captain Brian Shumaker's Tips for Pennsylvania SmallmouthS1, Ep 97: All Things Smallmouth with Mike SchultzS7, Ep 33: Nut Jobs and Chimichangas: A PA Smallmouth Update with Brendan RuchConnect with Our GuestFollow Brian on Facebook and Instagram.Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.Follow our
Smallmouth bass aren't just aggressive they're strategic. Jake Villwock breaks down how to consistently catch more fish by targeting all three feeding zones: topwater, mid-column, and bottom. He reveals how modern fly design—from foam bugs to articulated baitfish and lifelike crayfish has transformed the game. Whether you're chasing explosive surface eats or dialing in subsurface tactics, you'll learn how to fish smarter, adapt faster, and unlock the full potential of smallmouth on the fly.
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's episode. Dan Johnston talks about bait speed a very important topic. Darrell Toliver tells us how to work in the fishing industry. Chris Johnston wins 100,000.00 in the Elite series! He tells us how he got it done.
Chris Lawrence covers three stories from West Virginia's fishing world. Preston County angler Matt Bourne recounts landing a new state record chain pickerel — 27.95 inches from a private flood control pond — breaking the record he set himself in 2019, this time from a kayak using a homemade hybrid spinner lure with no net and a five-attempt battle to land the fish. DNR Eastern Panhandle fisheries biologist Brandon Keplinger then joins to discuss his ongoing project reintroducing genetically native brook trout to lower elevation streams in the region where the species was once extirpated, including the challenges of riparian habitat, acid precipitation, and drought years like 2024 and 2025. The conversation closes with the surprising rebound of smallmouth bass fishing on the South Branch of the Potomac — a species that was itself a historical introduction — and the biology behind why the fishery collapsed in the early 2000s and eventually recovered.
Send us Fan MailAlex Rutledge and co-host Mike "Redbone" Crase call in live from 1st Class Whitetails in Rutland, Ohio, for Turkey Camp 2026. Joining the show are hunter Jason Weekley — a former professional rodeo roper turned farrier from Florida — and digital marketing pro Sam Santorita of Sharp Line Growth Media. The crew recaps three days of grinding Ohio Easterns, including a heart-pounding morning where a big long beard came in hot at 25 yards... only to walk away with a limp (and a nickname). Plus: Cardinals and Royals baseball, the Chiefs' offseason, Missouri elk and bear permits, a Hannah Harper/American Idol shoutout, and a bonus recipe segment featuring jalapeño bacon poppers, butter-fried turkey strips, and the great air fryer debate.Chapter Markers added:0:00 – Welcome & Hunt Recap Intro3:03 – Sports Talk: Cardinals, Royals & Chiefs4:20 – High School Sports & Missouri Elk/Bear Permits8:40 – Jason Weekley – Florida Boy, Pro Rodeo & Turkey Obsession13:20 – Day 1: Six Miles & No Turkeys16:06 – Day 2: Gobblers in the Canyon & the Shot That Wasn't19:24 – Day 3 Morning: Limp Leroy & the Miss Heard 'Round Ohio26:33 – Sam's Marketing Business & Camp Wrap-Up28:20 – Farrier Life: High-End Horses vs. Yard Darts34:55 – Looking Ahead: Day 3 Evening Hunt & Closing37:57 – BONUS: Wild Turkey Recipes44:11 – Hannah Harper & American Idol Shoutout
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's episode. Brian Brosdahl StCroix Ambassador tells us about his favorite rods to fish with and why. Brian Brosdahl then gives us a review of the Minnesota walleye opener. Carter Nutt tells us how he won 100,000.00 on Douglas Lake.
Send us Fan MailHost Alex Rutledge and Mike "Redbone" Crase is joined by country music recording artist Tyler Farr and Kentucky turkey hunter & butcher chef Tim Harris for a jam-packed episode straight from the Ozarks. They cover a tough spring turkey season in Missouri, a wild story about getting permission to hunt an elderly woman's farm — and killing a 24.5-pound gobbler within 15 minutes — plus NFL takes, local high school sports, and an upcoming benefit concert in Van Buren. Tyler shares stories about Luke Bryan's hunting habits, his Buck Commander ownership, and a classic 20-year-old memory of missing a turkey in front of Alex. Tim and Tyler also trade their best wild turkey recipes, from classic pan-fried to pickle-juice marinated strips. A true American roots conversation about faith, hunting, food, and friendship.Chapter Markers:Intro & Spring Turkey Season ReportCurrent Events: NFL, Local Sports & Cardinals TalkUpcoming Events: Whole Kids Outreach Benefit & Mae EstesSegment 2: Tim Harris – The Butcher Chef from KentuckyTim's Hunt at Alex's Camp – 3 Days in MissouriThe Permission Hunt: Elderly Lady's Farm & the Big GobblerSegment 3: Tyler Farr – Turkey Hunting & Buck CommanderTyler on Luke Bryan, Buck Commander & Tennessee HuntingSegment 4: Old Memories – Tyler's First Turkey Hunt with AlexWild Turkey Recipes: Fried, Smoked & Pickle Juice MethodShow Wrap-Up & Closing PrayerMissouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
Episode OverviewThe Articulate Fly's Pennsylvania Smallmouth Report returns with Captain Brian Shumaker of Susquehanna River Guides, delivering a timely mid-spring conditions update for the Susquehanna River system in Central Pennsylvania. This episode cuts straight to the practical challenge facing every Mid-Atlantic smallmouth angler right now: how to fish effectively when an extreme pattern of temperature swings — 80°F one day, back to the 50s by mid-week — is compressing and disrupting the spawn, locking fish down unpredictably, and keeping the frog bite from ever materializing. Brian, a veteran guide with over three decades on the Susquehanna, breaks down how he approaches these volatile conditions with clients, from the diagnostic logic of starting with yesterday's best fly and quickly reading fish mood, to the deeper strategic pivot of going subsurface on intermediate lines when topwater won't produce. He also touches on where the spawn currently stands — with the first wave already pushing some fish into early post-spawn funk — and what anglers can expect as conditions hopefully stabilize heading toward summer. For anyone planning time on Pennsylvania smallmouth water this spring, Brian's approach to grinding through difficult conditions with a rotating bench of swim flies and crayfish patterns offers both tactical and mental frameworks worth internalizing.Key TakeawaysHow to use yesterday's producing fly as a quick diagnostic starting point and pivot efficiently to Plan B when conditions have shifted overnight.Why slowing retrieve speed and fishing deeper are the first two adjustments to make when dropping temperatures cause smallmouth to lock jaw.How intermediate sink lines provide a versatile middle ground that keeps flies in the strike zone when topwater conditions are marginal.When to rotate through a broad multi-pattern bench — swim flies, Half-and-Halfs, Clousers and crayfish patterns — rather than forcing a single presentation in unpredictable spring conditions.Why crayfish patterns like the Clawdad are producing when stomach content checks confirm fish are actively keying on crayfish as a primary food source.How the unusual spring temperature volatility in Central PA is producing an early post-spawn funk in first-wave fish while later-wave spawners are still active, creating a mixed-mood fishery that demands adaptable tactics.Techniques & Gear CoveredBrian's current approach centers on intermediate sink lines as the primary tool for getting flies into the strike zone. From there, he runs a rotating bench of approximately a dozen patterns, starting with Clousers, swim flies and Half-and-Halfs and moving through the progression until something sticks — a systematic elimination approach that reflects hard-earned guiding experience in variable conditions. When temperatures drop and fish go passive, he leads with slower presentations before working up to more active retrieves. Crayfish imitations have been particularly productive, with Brian noting that fish are showing crayfish in their gullets on inspection — a data point that drives fly selection rather than guesswork. He specifically mentions patterns in the Clawdad-style that can be fished up off the bottom and animated to mimic a fleeing crayfish. Topwater setups remain rigged as a secondary option for afternoon sessions, with Brian noting that conditions like a sulphur hatch could still prompt fish to look up even in an otherwise subsurface day.Locations & SpeciesThe episode focuses on the Susquehanna River system in Central Pennsylvania, the fishery Brian has guided exclusively since founding Susquehanna River Guides in 1993. The Susquehanna is a fertile limestone river renowned for one of the strongest wild smallmouth bass fisheries in the eastern United States, characterized by rock ledges, wide shallow riffles and abundant crayfish and aquatic insect life. Target species is exclusively smallmouth bass throughout this report. The episode is recorded during the mid-spring spawn window, with Brian projecting that spawning activity on his water will wrap up around the third week of May and that some first-wave fish are already showing early post-spawn behavioral funk — while later-wave fish are still active and available. The unusual temperature volatility this spring is affecting fish behavior across the entire east coast smallmouth fishery, not just the Susquehanna, making Brian's adaptable mid-spring approach broadly applicable.FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredHow do you adapt your fly fishing approach when spring temperatures swing wildly day to day?Brian starts each session by testing what produced the day before — that gives a quick read on whether conditions have shifted. If that approach fails early, he moves to Plan B: slowing retrieve speed, going deeper and working through a systematic rotation of patterns until he finds something that matches the fish's current mood. The key is staying flexible rather than committing to a single technique.What fly line setups are most effective for Pennsylvania smallmouth in cold or variable spring conditions?Intermediate sink lines are Brian's primary tool right now, allowing him to keep flies subsurface without anchoring them to the bottom. Topwater rigs stay on deck for afternoon sessions as a speculative option, particularly when hatches are occurring. In colder conditions, he prioritizes slower patterns and quieter presentations before working up to more active swim fly retrieves.Why are crayfish fly patterns so effective for spring smallmouth bass fishing?Stomach content checks on the Susquehanna are showing fish actively feeding on crayfish, making imitative patterns a data-driven choice rather than a hunch. Patterns that can be fished up off the bottom and animated to simulate a fleeing crayfish — rather than dragged along bottom and snagged — are producing best because they remain accessible to fish holding at a range of depths.When does the smallmouth spawn typically wrap up on the Susquehanna River in Central PA?Under normal conditions, Brian expects spawning to be largely complete by the third week of May on his water. This spring's extreme temperature swings compressed the front end of the spawn but have also extended and complicated the overall picture, with first-wave fish already showing post-spawn behavior while later fish are still in the spawn cycle — creating a mixed-mood fishery that is more difficult to read than a typical spring.What should anglers expect after the spawn in terms of fish behavior and fishing quality?The post-spawn funk is real — fish that have completed spawning become temporarily lethargic and difficult to catch. Brian describes a brief early version of this pattern already affecting first-wave fish on his water. The good news is that once temperatures stabilize, fish typically come around quickly and the summer bite — including the anticipated frog bite and topwater action — can be excellent on the Susquehanna.Related ContentS8, Ep 27: The Pre-Spawn Puzzle: Captain Brian Shumaker's Tips for Pennsylvania SmallmouthS8, Ep 23: Low Water Chronicles: Matt Reilly on Pre-Spawn Smallmouth Strategies and Seasonal ShiftsS6, Ep 41: Smallmouth Secrets and Streamer Savvy with Brendan RuchS1, Ep 97: All Things Smallmouth with Mike SchultzConnect with Our GuestFollow Brian on Facebook and Instagram.Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.Join our Patreon community to support the show.If...
On this action-packed episode of Fishing the DMV, I'm joined by NVKBA angler Nathan Updike, fresh off an incredible victory at the 2026 NVKBA Shenandoah River kayak bass fishing tournament! Nathan broke down an absolutely dominant performance, putting together an impressive 89.50-inch limit against one of the most stacked fields we've ever seen on the Shenandoah River. NVKBA's first river event of the 2026 trail season proved once again why the Shenandoah River is considered one of the best smallmouth bass fisheries on the East Coast for kayak fishing, river fishing, and tournament bass fishing. With mostly overcast skies and late-day rain showers keeping conditions perfect, 65 anglers combined to catch an incredible 262 smallmouth bass throughout the day.Even more impressive, anglers recorded 5 Virginia citation smallmouth bass during the event, showcasing just how healthy and productive the Shenandoah River fishery continues to be. Along with giant bronzebacks, competitors also reported catching walleye, largemouth bass, and catfish while covering miles of moving water in search of winning fish.In this episode, we break down:Shenandoah River smallmouth bass fishing patternsKayak bass fishing tournament strategyRiver fishing techniques for pressured smallmouthBest baits and lures for Shenandoah River bass fishingCurrent conditions and seasonal river fishing trendsHow Nathan located and caught nearly 90 inches of river smallmouth bassWhy the Shenandoah River continues to dominate as a premier kayak fishing destinationPlease support Fishing the DMV on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FishingtheDMVPodcast If you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at fishingtheDMV@gmail.comLMD Enterprises: http://lmdoil.com/ NVKBA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/nvkba Jake's bait & Tackle Website: http://www.jakesbaitandtackle.com/ Link to Tactical Fishing Company: https://tacticalfishingco.com/ Fishing Pro Tech: https://www.facebook.com/FishingProTech Phone Number: (757) 566-1278Email: lin@fishingprotech.usFishing Pro Tech Address: 7812-A Richmond Road, Toano, VA, United States, 23168 Click the link below to get free shipping off any Super Blue Stuff roll-ons when you use the code FISHING! Click the link below right here: https://bit.ly/4buUMb5 Support the show
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's episode. Dan Johnston talks about spring top water fishing. Tom Lang Executive Director of Fishings Future gives us an update. Cole Floyd tells us how he won 125,000.00 on Beaver Lake.
Send us Fan MailAlex Rutledge is calling in from his little red tracker deep in Missouri turkey country, joined by the one and only Bad Bob, Jimmy, and a very special mystery guest known only as "Jack." Country music artist Kevin Weldon drops in to talk about his iconic redneck hunting songs that racked up nearly a billion downloads, what he's been up to since stepping back from recording, and his big new project — a Christmas feature film called The Wishlist, set for a 2027 release. Kevin also shares a brand-new praise and worship song he's been crafting for years that he believes could go worldwide. Jack, a 78-year-old waterfowl and turkey fanatic, shares his hunting adventures, the hilarious story of a mounted deer that got revenge from the wall, and why it's never too late to chase longbeards. Plus — turkey recipes, current sports talk, field reports from a tough Missouri spring turkey season, and the usual chaos courtesy of Bad Bob and Jimmy.Chapter Markers added:1:46 – Show Open & Intro2:06 – Meet Kevin Weldon, Bad Bob & Jimmy4:39 – Current Events & Sports Talk6:53 – Turkey Hunting Struggles This Season11:05 – Kevin Weldon: Background & Redneck Hunting Songs19:03 – Kevin's New Movie: The Wishlist22:58 – Meet Jack – A Turkey Hunting Legend at 7832:56 – Kevin's New Christian Song & Spiritual Journey37:56 – Turkey Recipes & Cooking Tips40:27 – How to Find Kevin Weldon & Show Wrap-UpMissouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, I sit down with Megan Goin, Mark Harris, and Dustin Haymaker to break down the first-ever fly-fishing tournament for warm water species on the Shenandoah River!Hosted at Shenandoah River State Park in partnership with Downriver Canoe Company, along with the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources and Shenandoah Riverkeeper, this event is bringing something completely new to the region—competitive fly fishing for smallmouth bass, sunfish, carp, and other warm-water species on one of Virginia's most iconic fisheries.We dive into everything you need to know about this unique event—from how it's opening the door for more anglers to get involved in fly fishing, to how it directly supports conservation efforts protecting the Shenandoah River. If you're into smallmouth bass fishing, river fishing, kayak fishing, or fly fishing tournaments, this is an episode you don't want to miss.Tournament Details:
Episode OverviewThe Articulate Fly returns to Southwest Virginia with guide Matt Reilly of Matt Reilly Fly Fishing for a candid late-spring conditions update covering the 2026 striper run, the smallmouth spawn transition and the tactical realities of fishing during one of the most compressed and drought-affected springs on record. Marvin Cash and Matt dissect a season that accelerated and stalled simultaneously — an extended cold February followed by an abrupt heat spike of 85–95°F days in late March and early April, paired with persistently low water, collapsed the striper run and complicated every major seasonal transition on Southwest Virginia's river systems. The weird weather and flows have made it genuinely difficult to pattern pre- and post-spawn smallmouth — the fish anglers actually want to target — because the usual seasonal cues have been compressed and scrambled. Matt provides a practical framework for identifying spawning males so you can skip them and keep hunting for fish that are actively feeding: the lazy follow, the lip-grab without commitment, the fish that trails your bug 8–10 feet off the bank and turns back are all signs to move on. He also explains why low water in an otherwise frustrating spring carries a meaningful upside for long-term recruitment if dry conditions hold through June. The episode closes with a thoughtful response to a listener question from Myles about breaking into fly fishing guiding professionally, with Matt covering mentorship, income diversification, the ethics of client and fishery stewardship and the financial realities of building a sustainable guide business.Key TakeawaysHow to recognize spawning male smallmouth behavior — lazy follows, lip-grabs and short pursuits that turn back to the bank — so you can move on quickly and keep hunting actively feeding pre- and post-spawn fish.Why low-water drought springs can actually produce strong smallmouth recruitment classes if rain stays away through June.When to move on from a fish that follows your bug or streamer and returns to the bank without committing — and why skipping those fish is both the ethical and tactically correct call.How unusual weather and flows this spring have scrambled the typical pre- and post-spawn patterns, making it a mixed-bag season where reading individual fish behavior matters more than following a seasonal playbook.Why building a guide career requires prioritizing client relationships and fishery health above daily revenue — and how that long-term ethic translates to business sustainability.How diversifying income streams (writing, multi-species guiding, year-round fisheries) protects a guide's livelihood when weather, blowouts or other factors cut into prime booking windows.Techniques & Gear CoveredThe central tactical theme of this episode is finding and targeting actively feeding pre- and post-spawn smallmouth in low, clear water — a harder task than usual given how badly the weird weather and flows this spring have scrambled normal seasonal patterns. Matt covers top water bug presentations and streamer fishing as the primary techniques for this window, but stresses that reading individual fish behavior is the key skill right now. Stomach-pump data — stoneflies, bees, beetles, damselflies and dragonflies — confirms that genuinely feeding fish are keyed on terrestrials and aquatic insects, which gives anglers confidence that top water presentations are well-founded. The critical field skill Matt emphasizes is identifying spawning males quickly so you can move on: a fish that lazily follows a bug or streamer 8–10 feet off the bank and turns back, or that lip-grabs without committing, is a spawner to skip — not a fish to continue to work. The striper run is also discussed briefly in the context of the same low-water and warming conditions.Locations & SpeciesSouthwest Virginia's river systems — the New River drainage and surrounding waters — are the focus of this report, with Matt Reilly fishing and guiding the region year-round. Smallmouth bass are the primary target species for the spring through early fall, with striped bass serving as the transitional species between musky season and pre-spawn smallmouth and the remainder of smallmouth season. The compressed, weather-scrambled spring has made it unusually difficult to pattern pre- and post-spawn smallmouth — the fish Matt and his clients are after — with conditions shifting too quickly for the usual seasonal benchmarks to hold. The season discussed covers late April through early July, with May through late June highlighted as the core window for top water, baitfish and crayfish presentations once the spawn has run its course and actively feeding fish become reliably patternable again.FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredHow do you identify spawning male smallmouth so you can move on and find actively feeding fish?Matt explains that spawning males reveal themselves through a set of distinctive non-committal behaviors: lazily following a bug or popper without eating, lip-grabbing it without driving it down or trailing a fly 8–10 feet off the bank before turning back to their original position. A genuinely feeding fish commits. Once you recognize those spawner signals, the right move is to keep moving, because leaving them alone is the correct call during the spawn. With this spring's scrambled conditions making pre- and post-spawn fish harder than usual to pattern, being efficient about identifying and skipping spawners is especially important.What does extremely low, warm spring water mean for smallmouth spawn site selection?In low-water years, smallmouth spread their spawning activity across non-traditional structure — small mid-river rocks, exposed tailouts and spots that wouldn't hold nests at normal flows — because classic protected backwaters become stagnant and unsuitable. Understanding where fish are spawning matters less for targeting purposes and more for knowing where not to fish, and for recognizing the behavior cues that signal a spawner so you can move on efficiently. The upside of this low-water spawn, as Matt explains, is the potential for strong recruitment if dry conditions hold through June.What are the best fly fishing techniques for Southwest Virginia smallmouth in late spring and early summer under low, clear conditions?Matt anticipates top water bug presentations — poppers, damselfly and dragonfly imitations, terrestrials — dominating May through early July given the continued low and clear forecast. Streamer presentations remain viable, particularly for baitfish and crayfish patterns as water warms into the late May and June window, but the finesse of dead-drifting surface flies tight to the bank is a standout tactic for reaching post-spawn fish that are genuinely in a feeding mode. The challenge this season is that the scrambled spring has compressed the transition windows, so reading individual fish behavior — rather than relying on calendar-based seasonal cues — is the more reliable approach.What is the most important advice for someone looking to build a career as a fly fishing guide?Matt emphasizes three things above individual tactics: surround yourself with mentors who are better than you and have nothing to prove, be willing to work extremely hard and put in time on the water because print and video resources only go so far, and diversify your income streams across species, seasons and ancillary work like writing. He also stresses that sustainable guide businesses prioritize client experience and fishery health over daily revenue — those values pay off long-term even when they cost you in the short run.Why do low-water drought conditions during the spawn create an opportunity for long-term smallmouth recruitment?If spring stays dry through June, fish can complete the spawn without disruption from flooding or high flows, which can otherwise wash out nests and devastate year-class recruitment. Matt notes that this is a meaningful potential upside to what otherwise feels like a frustrating season — the same drought that hurt the striper run and compressed the musky window may produce a strong class of juvenile smallmouth if it holds.Related ContentS8, Ep 23 – Low Water Chronicles: Matt Reilly on Pre-Spawn Smallmouth Strategies and Seasonal ShiftsS8, Ep 16 – The Seasonal Shift: Matt Reilly Discusses Spring Fishing Strategies in Southwest VirginiaS8, Ep 2 – January Fishing Forecast: Weather Patterns and Musky Tips with Matt ReillyS6, Ep 71 – Adapting to Heat and Low Flows: A Southwest Virginia Fishing Report with Matt ReillyConnect with Our GuestFollow Matt on Instagram.Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on...
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's episode. Dan Johnston talks about jig trailers for different situations. Joe Bucher is excited for the Wisconsin fishing season opener this Saturday! Jacob Foutz talks about his 100,000.00 win fishing the BassMaster Elite Tournament.
Frank talks about targeting early season smallmouth.
This week, we break one of our own rules… and it was absolutely worth it.We sit down with Del Munro of Davidson River Outfitters. Del is a true student of the river. While he may not be a dad, his knowledge of smallmouth bass fishing earns him a seat at the table.We dive into Del's journey in the fly fishing world, what makes smallmouth so addicting, and how chasing bronze backs is a completely different game than the trout most of us cut our teeth on. From reading water to dialing in flies and approach, Del shares practical, hard-earned wisdom you won't find in a textbook.If you've ever thought about making the jump from trout streams to smallmouth rivers (or just want to become a better angler overall,) this one's packed with insight.Plus, we swap a few stories, talk local waters, and get a glimpse into what makes Western North Carolina such a special place to fish. Get your Dads On The Fly Merch in our online store .Check out our sponsors:https://turtleboxaudio.com/https://nativesflyfishing.com/https://saludabeads.com/https://rambler.co/
Send us Fan MailAlex Rutledge and Red Bone are joined by special guest Richard Kraft — owner of Gelco Outdoors in Fort Smith, Arkansas — to share the story of his 11-year-old grandson Scout's successful Missouri youth Turkey hunt. After two years of near-misses, Scout finally closes the deal on a longbeard in the Missouri Ozarks. The guys break down the full hunt strategy — roosting the birds the night before, working through hung-up gobblers and seven Jakes, and finally making the right call to seal the deal. They also discuss the deep bond between a grandfather and grandson, lessons learned in the field, and why passing down the hunting tradition matters. Bonus segment: Turkey and crappie recipes plus a look inside Gelco Outdoors.Chapter Markers:0:00 – Intro & Welcome3:09 – Cardinals, Chiefs & Current Events9:05 – Scout's Story – Who Is He?17:30 – The Hunt Breakdown – Strategy & Setup23:01 – The Final Call – Closing the Deal26:47 – Grandfather & Grandson Bond35:18 – Podcast Bonus – Recipes & Gelco OutdoorsMissouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
Episode OverviewThis fly fishing podcast episode launches the inaugural Pennsylvania Smallmouth Report on The Articulate Fly, featuring host Marvin Cash and Captain Brian Shumaker of Susquehanna River Guides. The episode arrives at a pivotal moment in the Pennsylvania smallmouth spawn cycle, with an unseasonably volatile spring — swings from the upper 50s to the 70s in water temperature within days — compressing what is normally a methodical, staggered spawn into a chaotic quest to pattern pre-spawn fish. On the Juniata and Susquehanna, Shumaker reports catching spawned-out females alongside buck males, signaling that the first wave has already completed, while subsequent waves are just arriving. The conversation covers responsible angler strategy during the spawn, where to focus presentations to avoid disturbing bedding fish and how low flows on the tributaries have pushed fishing pressure onto the main river. Shumaker also previews his summer guide calendar, highlighting July through September as prime topwater and streamer season, and teases a planned trip with Bob Clouser to target peacock bass in Florida.Key TakeawaysHow volatile spring water temperatures — from the upper 50s to the low 70s within days — compress the smallmouth spawn and make it more difficult to pattern pre-spawn fish on Pennsylvania riversWhy concentrating presentations on mid-river structure rather than bank edges is the most effective and responsible strategy when spawning activity is underwayHow to identify when you've stumbled into bedding fish — landing several fish in quick succession from the same bank zone is the signal to back offWhen swim flies, Deceivers and Half-and-Halfs, produce in mixed-bag pre-spawn and spawn-transition conditions on the Susquehanna systemWhy Pennsylvania tributary flows have been too shallow for float trips since mid-April, making main-stem Susquehanna and Juniata fishing the primary option this springWhen to plan a guided Pennsylvania smallmouth trip with Shumaker: July through September for topwater popping bug fishing, with streamer and crayfish options throughoutTechniques & Gear CoveredShumaker's current approach to the spawn-transition period centers on streamer-style patterns — swim flies, Deceivers and Half-and-Halfs — chosen for their ability to produce across a wide range of water temperatures and fish behavior stages. The mixed-bag nature of the conditions (cold-water days followed immediately by warm-water days) makes pattern commitment difficult, and Shumaker acknowledges the fish have been hard to lock into a single presentation. For summer bookings, he highlights popping bugs and topwater flies as the primary draw from July through September, with streamers and crayfish patterns rounding out the arsenal.Locations & SpeciesThe primary fishery covered is the Susquehanna River and Juniata River system in central Pennsylvania, with additional context on the region's smaller tributaries, which have been unfishable by raft since approximately mid-April due to low water. The target species is smallmouth bass, with Shumaker noting a split population dynamic: first-wave fish (spawned-out females and smaller buck males) already post-spawn, and subsequent waves still staging or actively on beds. Water temperatures have swung dramatically this spring — from the upper 50s approaching 60°F to the low 70s within a single week — creating an unusually compressed and difficult-to-pattern spawn window across the Susquehanna drainage.FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredHow do you tell if you're fishing over spawning smallmouth on beds rather than pre-spawn fish?Shumaker's rule of thumb is location and catch rate: pre-spawn fish are still staging out in the current and mid-river structure, while fish on beds are in the shallower water along the banks and edges. If you're casting toward the bank and catching multiple fish in quick succession from the same area, you're almost certainly into bedding fish — the responsible move is to back off immediately.What fly patterns are working for pre-spawn and spawn-transition smallmouth on the Susquehanna system?Shumaker has been rotating through swim flies, Deceivers and Half-and-Halfs during the transition period. He notes the fish have been difficult to pattern because water temperatures have swung significantly day to day, so he's fishing a mixed approach rather than committing to a single presentation.Why are Pennsylvania smallmouth tributaries unfishable this spring?Low water has been the dominant story on the tributaries since roughly the second week of April. Despite brief bumps from rain events, levels drop back almost immediately. Shumaker notes that floating his raft requires getting out and dragging the boat 10 to 15 times per trip — making the main-stem Susquehanna and Juniata the practical choice for guided float fishing.When is the best time to book a guided Pennsylvania smallmouth trip with Captain Shumaker?Shumaker has openings in July, August and September, with a few days remaining in October. He identifies July through September as prime time for topwater popping bug fishing — in addition to streamers and crayfish patterns — while October offers cooler conditions for anglers who prefer that style of fishing.How has this spring's weather affected the Pennsylvania smallmouth spawn?An extended stretch of unseasonably warm temperatures — including 90-degree air temps — spiked water temperatures into the 70s accelerating the typical methodical, staged spawn and making consistent patterning of pre-spawn fish very difficult.Related ContentS8, Ep 23 – Low Water Chronicles: Matt Reilly on Pre-Spawn Smallmouth Strategies and Seasonal ShiftsS7, Ep 33 – Nut Jobs and Chimichangas: A PA Smallmouth Update with Brendan RuchS7, Ep 36 – Central PA Fishing Report with George Costa of TCO Fly ShopS1, Ep 97 – All Things Smallmouth with Mike SchultzConnect with Our GuestFollow Brian on Facebook and Instagram.Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.Join our Patreon community to support the show.If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.Subscribe & AdvertiseSubscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app.Think our community is a good fit for your brand? 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Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's episode. Dan Johnston and I talk jig fishing this week. Charlie Evans talks about the Classic and RedCrest tournaments and how important they are to our industry. Jacob Wheeler tells us how he won the RedCrest tournament and 300,000.00
Send us Fan MailAlex Rutledge and Red Bone welcome Jason Lapp, Director of Marketing and Sales for 12 Point Hunting Blinds, to talk spring Turkey season and youth hunting. They cover why a quality blind can make all the difference for young hunters, how to build their confidence in the field, and what to do when the forecast calls for rain. Plus — stick around for the bonus segment where the guys swap wild Turkey recipes including fried nuggets, brined and grilled breast, smoked Turkey, and the Chick-fil-A pickle juice secret. Also featuring Cardinals baseball talk, high school sports updates, and NIL/transfer portal debates.Sponsors: Eagle Seed, Wise Eye Technologies, 12 Point Hunting Blinds, Hornaday Ammunition, Spendo ArmsChapter Markers added:1:34 — Show Intro & Current Events (Cardinals, high school baseball/softball, college sports NIL talk)10:39 — Intro to Jason Lapp & 12 Point Hunting Blinds (Pennsylvania turkey season, blind design & features)19:32 — 12 Point Blinds for Turkey & Youth Hunting (insulation, blackout curtains, mobility, dealer info)29:38 — Youth Season, Weather Strategy & Turkey Behavior (rain hunting, safety, building kids' confidence, proper gear)38:49 — Bonus: Turkey Recipes & Cooking Tips (fried nuggets, brined & grilled, smoked breast, pickle juice brine, injection)Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's episode. TJ Andreas StCroix Ambassador talks about his early season fishing trips. Mike Norris gives a Wisconsin game fish outlook for spring of 2026. Matteo Turano tells us how he won 66,506.00 on Kentucky Lake!
Send us Fan MailAlex Rutledge and the American Roots Outdoors crew welcome back hillbilly barber, outdoor writer, and river conservationist Richard Whiteside from Donovan, Missouri for a packed episode. The guys kick off with a discussion on a controversial Illinois bill that would tax ammunition and require serial numbers on every round — and what it could mean for hunters across the Midwest. Then they dive deep into the 2026 spring turkey season: why gobblers are quiet, how the warm weather has pushed the breeding cycle weeks ahead, and what that means for hunters heading into youth season. Richard shares gripping stories of outsmarting pressured birds, including a gobbler that took three days to pattern, and the moment he realized sometimes you have to "deer hunt" a turkey. The crew also covers the River Master's Elite Series smallmouth bass tournament schedule, plus details on Richard's Current River County Line Trash Bash cleanup event. In the bonus segment: wild turkey recipes, raising heritage breed turkeys, a father-son hunting lesson, and a closing scripture to cap off a great show.Chapter Markers:1:26 — Show Open & Introductions3:38 — Illinois Hunting Tax Proposal7:02 — Sports Update: Cardinals, Royals & NCAA Tournament10:18 — Segment 2: Richard Whiteside on Turkey Hunting12:12 — Turkey Population & Breeding Season Observations21:57 — Segment 3: Hunting Tough Gobblers & Spur Length23:42 — Memorable Turkey Hunts & Hunting Strategy25:51 — Current River Cleanup Event39:49 — Bonus Segment: Patience, Wild Turkey Recipes & Final Stories42:40 — Wild Turkey Cooking Tips with RichardMissouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
Send us Fan MailAlex Rutledge and Red Bone kick off the spring Turkey season with current hunting dates for Missouri and Arkansas, then sit down with Jahred Gamez — Director of Marketing for SDS Imports and Spandau Arms — for a wide-ranging conversation about what makes Spandau shotguns the hottest value in the Turkey woods. Jared shares why affordability doesn't mean compromise, how to pattern your gun with ammo you can grab at Walmart, and his take on raising young hunters the right way. Plus, in the bonus segment, Jared shares a hilarious story about his backyard gobbler named Butterball and two delicious wild Turkey recipes. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just breaking in your first youth hunter this season, this episode is packed with practical tips and good laughs.Chapter Markers addedTimeChapter1:34 | Show Open & Current Events2:19 | Turkey Season Dates & Regulations3:27 | Introducing Jared Gamez – Spandau Arms / SDS Imports7:49 | Interview Begins: Jared Gamez on Hunting & Spandau Arms17:32 | Why Spandau Arms Is Taking the Industry by Storm20:40 | Patterning Shotguns & Affordable Ammo for Turkey Season27:00 | Tips for Hunting with Youth Hunters33:49 | Small Game Hunting to Prep Kids for Big Game39:00 | Bonus Segment: Backyard Turkeys & Butterball the Gobbler42:52 | Wild Turkey Recipes with Jared GamezMissouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's episode. Dan Johnston and I discuss bait sizes. Bobby Dennis discusses new baits versus old baits and more. Ken Duke gives his thoughts about the bass fishing world and where it's heading.
Episode OverviewIn this Southwest Virginia Fishing Report on The Articulate Fly fly fishing podcast, host Marvin Cash checks in with guide Matt Reilly for a timely spring conditions update. With pre-spawn smallmouth season winding down under extreme drought pressure — flows running at roughly a fifth to a quarter of seasonal averages — Matt breaks down how he's adapting tactics on the water in real time. Rising water temperatures, driven by a stretch of days pushing into the upper 70s and near 80°F air temps, have forced the bite to shift well ahead of the typical photoperiod-driven spawn timeline. The result is a low, clear-water pattern that demands the kind of finesse approach more commonly associated with late summer than early spring. Matt details his pivot to smaller, slimmer, more natural-colored baitfish imitations — CK Baitfish, his buddy Roger's Rump Shaker and bigger Murdich Minnows — after watching the bite transition linearly away from the large 6–7 inch chartreuse-and-orange profiles that were working earlier. He also walks through his line and leader setup adjustments for clear, pressured conditions: a clear-tip intermediate seven-weight line with a leader running closer to seven feet. With the pre-spawn window for Matt closing around mid-April, this episode is essential listening for anglers planning pre-spawn smallmouth trips or trying to understand how low water conditions affect the spring streamer bite.Key TakeawaysHow to recognize when rising water temperatures are pulling smallmouth bass out of the pre-spawn window prematurely and why adapting quickly matters.Why downsizing to smaller, slimmer, more natural-colored baitfish streamers outperforms big profile flies when Southwest Virginia rivers run low and clear.How a clear-tip intermediate line paired with a longer (approximately seven-foot) leader helps generate strikes from wary pre-spawn smallmouth in bright, low-water conditions.When to prioritize early and late windows during high-sun days on low, clear smallmouth rivers, mirroring the approach used for pressured trout.Why water temperature is the leading indicator for pre-spawn smallmouth behavior, and how flows far below seasonal averages can affect the entire spring bite calendar.Techniques & Gear CoveredMatt Reilly's approach to low, clear pre-spawn conditions centers on intermediate-line streamer fishing with a deliberate reduction in fly size and profile. He described fishing a seven-weight rod with a clear-tip intermediate line paired with a leader he's extended to roughly seven feet to add distance between the line tip and the fly. On the pattern side, Matt has landed on smaller baitfish imitations in the 4-inch range: the CK Baitfish, the Rump Shaker (a slimmer profile pattern from his friend Roger) and bigger Murdich Minnows are his current go-tos. He's deliberately stepped away from the larger 6–7 inch profiles in brighter chartreuse and orange that were effective earlier in the pre-spawn, confirming through daily observation that going bigger at this stage does more harm than good. Color selection has shifted toward more natural, subtle tones, with early-morning and late-evening windows providing the best action on sunny days — a strategy that mirrors pressured trout streamer fishing logic.Locations & SpeciesThis report covers Southwest Virginia's smallmouth rivers during the late pre-spawn period, with Matt fishing these waters daily as a full-time guide. No specific river names are discussed in this episode, but the conditions Matt describes — flows at roughly a fifth to a quarter of seasonal average, water temperatures sliding into the upper 50s and threatening to breach 60°F ahead of the photoperiod-driven spawn — apply broadly across the region's smallmouth fisheries. The target species is pre-spawn smallmouth bass, with Matt noting that the fish are still actively feeding on baitfish imitations despite compressed and technically demanding conditions. The seasonal context is critical: the window is narrowing fast, with Matt expecting the prime pre-spawn bite to close soon, and booking availability for this phase of the year is essentially gone.FAQ / Key Questions AnsweredHow do you adjust your streamer setup when Southwest Virginia smallmouth rivers run low and clear?Matt drops to a seven-weight rod with a clear-tip intermediate line and extends his leader to approximately seven feet. The clear tip reduces line visibility, and the longer leader creates more separation between fly line and fly, both of which help generate strikes from wary fish in bright, pressured conditions.What fly patterns and sizes work best for pre-spawn smallmouth in low, clear water?Matt has shifted to smaller baitfish imitations in the 4-inch range — the CK Baitfish, the Rump Shaker and bigger Murdich Minnows — in more natural, subtle colors. He's moved away from the larger 6–7 inch chartreuse and orange profiles that worked earlier in the season, noting through daily observation that oversized flies are counterproductive once conditions tighten up.How does water temperature affect pre-spawn smallmouth behavior in Southwest Virginia?Water temperature is the primary driver. When temps push into the upper 50s and approach 60°F well ahead of the photoperiod that normally triggers spawning behavior, it disrupts the typical pre-spawn feeding pattern. A stretch of near-80°F air temps compresses the entire spring calendar, potentially ending the traditional pre-spawn bite earlier than normal.When is the best time to fish for smallmouth in low, clear conditions?Early morning and late evening are the most productive windows on sunny, bright days when rivers are running low and clear. Matt draws a direct parallel to trout streamer fishing, where high-sun midday conditions tend to shut down aggressive behavior on clear water.What does extremely low flow — well below seasonal average — mean for pre-spawn smallmouth strategy?Low flows force fish into tighter, more predictable holding water and demand a more cautious approach overall: smaller flies, more natural colors, quieter presentations and longer casts. Matt notes that fish are still catchable, but the angler has to commit to finesse tactics rather than the aggressive power-fishing approach that works when rivers are full and colored.Related ContentS8, Ep 16 - The Seasonal Shift: Matt Reilly Discusses Spring Fishing Strategies in Southwest VirginiaS8, Ep 9 - Ice, Snow and Musky: Navigating Winter Fishing in Southwest VirginiaS7, Ep 19 - Weathering the Winds: March Fishing Insights and Pre-Spawn Strategies with Matt ReillyS7, Ep 1 - Winter Fly Tying and Pre-Spawn Tips with Matt ReillyS6, Ep 33 - Southwest Virginia Fishing Report with Matt ReillyConnect with Our GuestFollow Matt on Instagram.Follow the ShowFollow The Articulate Fly on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.Follow our Substack newsletter for episode updates, tips and resources.Support the ShowShop through our Amazon link to support the podcast.Join our Patreon community to support the show.If you are in the industry and need help getting unstuck, learn more about our consulting options.Subscribe & AdvertiseSubscribe to the podcast in your favorite podcast app.Think our community is a good fit for your brand? 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Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's episode. Mark Hanson St Croix Ambassador talks about spring fishing. Jim Crowley- Slick Fish Radio gives us a Midwest spring outlook! Jason Christie talk about his 100,000.00 win on the BASS ELITE SERIES TOURNAMENT!
Send us Fan MailJoin hosts Alex Rutledge and Red Bone Mike Grace for an action-packed episode covering turkey hunting techniques, local sports championships, and memorable hunting stories. In this episode, Alex demonstrates advanced turkey vocalizations using multiple diaphragm calls (M150, Little Loose Lips, E250), shares expert tips on turkey behavior and breeding patterns, and recounts unforgettable hunts from Louisiana and Missouri. The hosts also discuss the Missouri and Liberty Eagles' Final Four runs, Arkansas Razorbacks' championship potential, and Kansas City Chiefs' roster moves. Plus, hear heartwarming stories about Alex's granddaughter Wren learning to turkey call at 8 months old, get details on the upcoming Craig Morgan concert, and learn a delicious wild turkey taquitos recipe. Special announcement: Congressman Jason Smith joins next week's show!Chapter Markers:Introduction & Turkey Vocalizations (0:00)Sports Roundup: Final Four & Championship Talk (1:42)Turkey Season Preview & NWTF Banquet (10:11)Wise Eye Camera Technology (11:12)Turkey Behavior & Weather Impact (11:59)Remembering Shorty - Inspiration Story (9:31)M150 Call Demonstration (16:42)Little Loose Lips Call Demo (23:04)E250 Call for Locating & Finishing (25:12)Louisiana Gator Farm Hunt Story (26:49)Linda's Turkey Hunt While Pregnant (33:24)Baby Wren Learning to Turkey Call (36:06)Wild Turkey Taquitos Recipe (41:41)Congressman Jason Smith Preview & Closing (46:18)Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's episode. Dan Johnston and I discuss put and take trout fishing! Great for kids, families and all fishermen! Brian “Bro”Brosdahl talks about the last days of Minnesota ice fishing and a spring outlook. Joe Opager Senior Director of Communications talks about the RedCrest Tournament and all the other opportunities MLF offers!
Send us Fan MailOregon County Commissioner Jake Parker joins Alex Rutledge to discuss the critical tax base crisis facing southern Missouri counties with large National Forest holdings. Learn how 106,000 acres of federal land in Oregon County generates minimal tax revenue, threatening local schools and infrastructure. Jake explains the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) problem, salvage timber sales at $1,100/acre, and the grassroots resolution movement to increase federal contributions from 25% to 50%. Plus: Turkey season scouting tips, Mississippi hunting stories, and Jake's authentic Louisiana crawfish boil recipe.Chapter Markers:Introduction & Local Sports Update (1:21)Meet Jake Parker - From Mississippi to Missouri (9:50)National Forest Tax Base Crisis (15:49)School Funding & PILT Payments (19:43)Impact on Communities & Resolution Movement (23:50)Turkey Hunting Season Preview (34:39)Cooking Crawfish Southern Style (42:07)Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
The Neosho Bass research is finally here, how will it affect regulations? → Download your free Neosho Bass Field Guide → Join other Ozarkers on our Patreon - The Holler In this episode, Jeremy Risley and Eric Naas of Arkansas Game & Fish Commission break down how the brand-new genetic research of the Neosho Bass will affect state-wide (and perhaps even region-wide) regulations. This discovery of a new species is now helping scientists better understand the four distinct smallmouth bass lineages across Arkansas, and now comes the hard part of putting the research into action. If you care about fishing, stream bank health, smallmouth bass, and conservation stories, this one is worth your time. Together with... Vortex Optics - Industry leader in scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Maverik - Adventure's first stop in the Ozarks Prism Glass Co - Luxury residential glass and mirror installation Big Pete's Taxidermy - High-quality work with quick turnaround Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Everything you need to start your next adventure 00:00 Research is here...now what? 6:00 History of smallmouth management in Arkansas 13:00 Habitat health vs. public desire 22:00 Where are the smallmouth bass hatcheries? 32:00 Why are stream banks changing? 45:00 Neosho bass regulation updates What is The Ozark Podcast? In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker. Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett, and our producer is Daniel Matthews Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com
Dave Kranz creator of the WeFishASA podcast would like you to listen to this week's podcast. Dan a Johnston wraps up the BassMaster Classic from an exhibitor perspective. I talk about the Classic and why the anglers are getting younger that are competing. Dylan Nutt tells us about his 307,000.00 win! Congratulations!
On this episode of Fishing the DMV, we're joined by legendary kayak angler and river smallmouth expert Jeff Little to break down everything you need to know about springtime river smallmouth bass fishing in the Mid-Atlantic.Jeff shares his deep knowledge of pre-spawn smallmouth bass behavior, how rising spring water temperatures influence feeding patterns, and where anglers should look to find fish as they move from wintering holes into staging areas and spawning habitat. We also dive into how different river bottoms—rock, gravel, ledge, and current seams—affect smallmouth spawning and holding areas throughout the spring season.The conversation covers several iconic Mid-Atlantic smallmouth fisheries, including the Upper Potomac River, Susquehanna River, Shenandoah River, and even the often overlooked Upper Rappahannock River, which is quietly becoming a productive smallmouth fishery. Jeff explains how river flow, structure, and current breaks influence where bass position during the pre-spawn and spawn, and how anglers can adjust their tactics to consistently catch river smallmouth this time of year.Please support Fishing the DMV on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FishingtheDMVPodcastJeff Little on Uscreen: thelittlestuff.uscreen.io/yt/2247-untitled-lead-generator Jeff on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelittlestuffchannel ‘Jeff on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheLittleStuff Innovative Sportsman Kayak: https://www.innovativesportsman.com/ If you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at fishingtheDMV@gmail.comFish Tagged Program: https://fishtagged.org/ Jake's bait & Tackle Website: http://www.jakesbaitandtackle.com/ Link to Tactical Fishing Company: https://tacticalfishingco.com/ Fishing Pro Tech: https://www.facebook.com/FishingProTech Fishing Pro Tech Address: 7812-A Richmond Road, Toano, VA, United States, 23168 Click the link below to get free shipping off any Super Blue Stuff roll-ons when you use the code FISHING! link right here: https://bit.ly/4buUMb5 #bassfishing #fishingtheDMV #fishingtipsSupport the show
Send a textJoin Alex Rutledge and Red Bone on American Roots Outdoors as they dive deep into the art of turkey hunting and vocalization techniques. In this comprehensive episode, you'll learn essential turkey calling methods including tree calls, clucks, purrs, cutting, and aggressive calling strategies. Alex shares expert tips on setting up for success, reading turkey behavior, understanding the pecking order, and communicating effectively with both gobblers and hens. Plus, hear exciting hunting stories, local sports updates, cooking recipes for wild turkey, and discussions about conservation efforts. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical knowledge to help you close the deal on your next gobbler. Featuring special segments on 12 Point Hunting Blinds, Eagle Seed food plots, and Wise Eye cameras0:00 - Introduction & Tree Calling Basics2:09 - Local Events & Sports Update10:26 - Setting Up on a Roosted Turkey10:48 - Aggressive Calling & Pecking Order13:54 - Locating Turkeys & Reading Gobblers19:11 - Controlling the Turkey & Finishing Techniques24:31 - Diaphragm Calls & The M15031:05 - Turkey Hunting Story - The Church Hunt35:52 - Dealing with Fence-Hanging Turkeys38:46 - Wild Turkey Recipes & Cooking TipsMissouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
Send a textJoin Alex Rutledge and Red Bone from American Roots Outdoors for an in-depth masterclass on turkey hunting. Learn essential turkey vocalizations including tree calls, fly-down cackles, clucks, yelps, and cutting techniques. Discover expert strategies for calling hung-up gobblers, handling multi-bird scenarios, and mastering diaphragm calls. Plus, hear Alex's unforgettable story of his first turkey at age 14, and get Red Bone's recipe for delicious turkey fajitas. Perfect for both beginners and experienced hunters looking to improve their calling skills before turkey season.Chapter Markers Added:Introduction & Current Events (0:00)Turkey Vocalizations Overview (10:00)Hen Calls from the Roost (12:30)Tree Calls & Fly Down Cackles (14:00)Clucking, Yelping & Cutting (17:00)Advanced Calling Techniques (19:00)Hung-Up Gobblers Strategy (21:30)Multi-Bird Scenarios (24:30)Diaphragm Call Mastery (25:30)Memorable Turkey Hunts (28:00)Alex's First Turkey Story (30:00)Hunting Heritage & Conservation (33:30)Turkey Fajitas Recipe (39:00)Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation:https://www.mhhf.us/To follow American Roots Outdoors Podcast:https://www.facebook.com/groups/448812356525413To learn more about American Roots Outdoors:https://americanrootsoutdoors.com/https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRootsOutdoors/To follow Alex Rutledge:https://www.facebook.com/americanrootsalex/To follow Wayne Lach:https://www.facebook.com/wayne.lach.5To follow Mike Crase:https://www.facebook.com/mike.crase
Bassmaster Elite Series Rookie Aaron Jadgfeld joins bass u live today to talk to us about his signature smallmouth power fishing techniques. Lake Erie, St Clair, and The Great Lakes.