#107 Justin Leake: The Building Blocks of Fishing, and Panama City Beach

In this podcast, we sit down with Justin Leake of Chasin’ the Sun and discuss what he has learned from guiding and filming along Florida’s Emerald Coast. Justin is a full-time guide out of Panama City Beach, and shares with us the most important building blocks to learning a fishery, mistakes young guides make, and his love for chasing a wide range of species and developing anglers of all skill sets.

#105 Cody Rubner: Targeting a Variety, Learning from Mistakes, and *Almost* Catching a World Record Permit

In this podcast, we sit down with Captain Cody Rubner and discuss his transition from working in the outdoor industry to full time guiding. Cody chases a wide variety of fish in Stuart Florida ranging from Sailfish, to Permit, to Snook and Tarpon. In this episode, we discuss how to recover from mistakes made as a young angler and business owner, how to utilize mentors, how Cody’s background in Marine Biology informs his fishing, and why he believes it is important to pursue a wide range of species.

Round Two: Brett Martina

In this podcast, we sit down for a Round Two with Brett Martina of Apalach Inshore. In this episode, Brett shares about what his “off season” is like, the importance of always pushing yourself to learn new things, how he manages clients, what he does to stay on top of an always changing fishery, and what he learned about life from a serious car accident Brett, his wife, and a close client got in a few years back. Brett also shares more stories about tarpon fishing as a kid in Apalachicola, and how in some ways he has changed, and in some ways he has found it important to stay the same.

Young Guns: Mason Matejcek

In this podcast, we sit down with Mason Matejcek and discuss hunting and fishing along Texas’ coast. Rather than going to college, Mason chose to begin guiding at eighteen. Throughout the past eight years Mason has been able to build his business and learn from some of the best. In this episode, we dive into tips for getting started, scouting, and chasing ducks.

097 Blue Gabe: YouTube, Hard Work, and Dealing with Negativity

In this podcast, we sit down with Gabriel “Blue Gabe” Arrington and discuss how he went from dropping out of high school to running a successful Outdoor YouTube channel. Gabriel also shares about the importance of hard work and how he deals with negativity. We also dive into some great tips for learning new skills and catching soft shell turtles.

LIVE with Greg Peterson and Adam Fernandez

In this podcast, we sit down with Greg Peterson and Adam Fernandez for a live recording at Tailwater Outfitters. In this episode, Greg shares how he went from chasing Steelhead in his mom’s minivan to running a successful guide service in the bay area. We also discuss how to help people connect with nature and move from spectators to advocates. This podcast was recorded as a part of the Tampa Bay Waterkeeper Tournament. To learn more, head to tampabaywaterkeeper.org.

#096 Josh Crumpton: On Ramps & Learning Curves

In this podcast, we sit down with Josh Crumpton of Spoke Hollow Outdoors and former guest Drew Chicone. In this episode we discuss how we can all better handle learning curves when it comes to the outdoors and ways in which we can create more “on ramps” for others for getting connected to nature. This episode also feature a special musical performance from Tanner Usrey.

LIVE with Paul Puckett and Owen Plair

In this podcast, we sit down to chat with Paul Puckett about how art has shaped the way he views the outdoors. Paul also shares about how he has learned to embrace mistakes, and why “perfection is boring.” We are also joined by Owen Plair of Rivers and Glen to discuss all things Charleston. This podcast also features some of Paul’s original songs.

093 Johnnie Candle: Walleye World Championships and Learning New Waters

In this podcast, we sit down with Johnnie Candle and discuss all things Walleye fishing. In this episode, Johnnie shares some stories and lessons he has learned from over 30+ years of professional angling, including some helpful insight into utilizing maps and learning new waters. This episode also includes a special musical performance by Florida Folk Artist Leon Majcen.

#092 Piper Johansen: Grade School and Grand Slams

In this podcast, with sit down with Piper & PJ Johansen for a special Captains Collective Kids Interview. Piper has an impressive list of fishing accomplishments for a young lady who has not yet hit her teens! And she is just getting started. In this podcast, we discuss how Piper fell in love with fishing, her inspirations as a kid, and how her dad has helped encourage her love for the outdoors.

Holiday Gift Guide

THE unofficial, semi-certified, number one and only source for your outdoor gifts. Marty Gallipeau of Badfish Supply and I teamed up to have some fun and put this list together. This is not about marketing. These are all products that we actually love, use, or desire. To learn more about these great products, make sure to listen to our podcast.

#089 Mike Burkee: Surviving Hurricane Ian

In this episode, we sit down with Ft Myers resident, Mike Burkee, and discuss his experience living through some of the worst of Hurricane Ian. To get involved in relief efforts, head to captainsforcleanwater.org. To give directly to Mike head here. To learn more about this podcast, head to captainscollective.com

#088 Owen Gayler: Cowboys & Captains

In this podcast, we sit down with Owen Gayler of Port O Conner Texas, and discuss his transition from cowboying to guiding. We also discuss his approach to chasing redfish in quiet places, and how to honor older guides wherever you fish. Special thanks to our friends at Borracho Pescador for putting on an incredible tournament to raise support and awareness for Rett Syndrome. Also, special thanks to Paul Puckett for laying some tasty guitar jams for this podcast.

#087 Richard Schmidt: The Pelican Chandeleur

In this podcast, we sit down with Richard Schmidt of the Pelican Chandeleur and talk about his operation located on a remote chain of islands on the easternmost point of Louisiana. In this episode, Richard shares about his journey to owning the Pelican and what he has learned along the way.

#086 Mac Elliot: Photos, Faith, and Looking Ahead

In this podcast, we sit down with Mac Elliot and discuss her work as a fishing focused photographer. Mac shares about how she got started in outdoor media, how her faith has shaped her work, and shares some tips and stories she has picked up along the way. See her work here.

#085 Mark Kenyon: Fighting Busyness, Finding Mentors, and Becoming a Lifelong Learner

In this podcast, we sit down with Mark Kenyon of Wired to Hunt and MeatEater and discuss his lifelong love of fishing. We also discuss the importance of fighting busyness, finding mentors, and how we can become lifelong learners by simply staying curious.

#084 Virginia Salvador: King Salmon, White Sturgeon, and West Coast Culture

In this podcast, we sit down with Virginia Salvador of Gate Crashers Fishing. In this episode, Virginia discusses White Sturgeon, King Salmon, and the cuisine and culture of San Francisco.

#083 Nick Labadie: Jet Ski Tours, Targeting Fish, and Putting Your Ego Aside

In this podcast, we sit down with Nick Labadie and discuss how he went from giving jet ski tours to becoming a well respected guide in the Florida Keys. We also discuss targeting bonefish, barracuda, and the importance of putting your ego aside.

#082 Jared Cyr: Evolving Fisheries, Little Advantages, and Doing It the Right Way

In this podcast, we sit down with 4th generation Key West guide, Jared Cyr and discuss his upbringing, approach to fishing, and tactics he uses to increase his likelihood of success. We also discuss the challenges of a rapidly changing fishery and what it means to “Do things the right way.”

#081 Ian Slater: Challenging Permit, Coaching Anglers, and Dealing with Competition

In this episode, we sit down with Captain Ian Slater of the Florida Keys. In this podcast, we discuss how Ian transitioned into guiding after pursuing a career in professional sports, tips on chasing Permit, how he coaches clients, and his approach to fishing tournaments.

#080 Scott Brown: Special Forces, Flats Fishing, and Family

In this episode, we sit down with Scott Brown of Push it Good Inshore and discuss his time in the service as a Green Beret, the importance of family life balance, and how he is currently working through Brave Waters Guide Service and Valiant Traditions to help get former military members engaged and active in the outdoors.

#079 Jesse Males: Moving Slow, Chasing Opportunities, and Fishing Costa Rica

In this podcast, we sit down with Jesse Males and discuss his fishing operation in Costa Rica and his career as a professional fly tier and content creator. In this podcast, we dive into not only some helpful tactics for fishing but also Jesse’s overall outlook on life, and how he went from being a Dominos Pizza Guy to a well traveled and versed angler. Jesse shares about our need to be able to slow down in life, the choice of contentment, and the importance of mental toughness.

Behind the Bahamas: Guides Round Table

In today’s episode, we get a chance to be a fly on the wall with the Guide Team at Soul Fly Lodge. In this podcast, we sit down with the crew and discuss their philosophies around fishing, team work, and conservation. To learn more about this series, and this podcast, head to captainscollective.com.

Behind the Bahamas: The Schaefers

In this episode, we sit down with Kyle and Kitri Schaefer and discuss what all goes into starting and running a fishing lodge. In this podcast, we talk about the … Continue reading Behind the Bahamas: The Schaefers

Behind the Bahamas: Travis Sands

Behind the Bahamas: Travis Sands. In this episode, we sit down with Travis Sands of Soul Fly Lodge and discuss his story growing up in the islands, and how he approaches the water today. Travis also shares how he survived Hurricane Dorian, a Category 5 storm that hit the Bahamas back in 2019.

#078 Trey Mikell: Close Up Redfish, Arrowhead Hunting, and Florida’s Nature Coast

In this episode, we sit down with Trey Mikell, a 9th generation Floridian whose family roots go deep in the small town of Gulf Hammock Florida, nestled within Florida’s Nature Coast.

In this podcast, Trey gives us a rundown of his story of a small town kid who fell in love with site fishing after watching an episode of outdoor television. Trey also shares with us tips on feeding redfish up close, navigating tight quarter fishing, and his passion of hunting arrowheads.

#077 Blane Chocklett: Musky, Innovation, and Looking through Key Holes

surrounding Virginia, the importance of organization, and all things Musky fishing. Blane also shares about his relationship with Larry Dahlberg and Lefty Kreh, as well as his philosophy on fly tying/design.

#076 Aaron Adams: Science, Observation, and the Freedom to Figure Things Out

In this episode, we sit down with Aaron Adams, Director of Science and Conservation at the Bonefish and Tarpon Trust. We discuss the importance of Aaron’s freedom to explore fisheries as a child in Maryland and Virginia, how we can be more observant when fishing, and the importance of habitat for fish populations.

#075 Joe Cermele: Loving Your Fishery, Telling Stories, and the Case for Snakeheads and Other Underrated Fish

In this podcast, we sit down with Joe Cermele of MeatEater and discuss his love of fishing and how he first connected with the outdoors as a kid in New Jersey. In this episode, we also dive into the importance of loving your home waters, the case for underrated fish (like snakeheads), and how Joe has grown from his time in outdoor media.

#074 Willie Espinosa: Miami Waters

In this podcast, we sit down with Willie Espinosa of Triple Crown Sport Fishing and discuss his upbringing in Miami. In this episode, Willie discusses the diversity of South Florida’s fishery, his relationship with his father, must eat foods, and how having a skiff as a teenager helped shape his life.

#073 Steve Yancar and Chad Smith: Praech Productions, Working through Differences, and Learning from the Best

In this podcast, we sit down with Steve Yancar and Chad Smith of Praech Productions (not a typo) and discuss their entrance into outdoor media, how they work through differences, … Continue reading #073 Steve Yancar and Chad Smith: Praech Productions, Working through Differences, and Learning from the Best

Guiding Flow Series: Tampa Bay Round Table

Guiding Flow Series: Tampa Bay Round Table. In this podcast, we sit down with Maya Burke of the Tampa Bay Estuary Program and Captain Dustin Pack to to discuss some of the victories and challenges surrounding Tampa Bay. In this episode we discuss the variations and importance of seagrass, water flow, and the science behind red tide. We also talk about the history and current landscape of Tampa’s fishery.

#071 Brian Esposito: Modern Gladesmen

outs of Florida’s Everglades, and how his days of surfing as a teen eventually led to him building his own custom skiffs. Brian is a modern day gladesmen who has dedicated his life to learning as much as he can about these amazing waters. From scouting for fish to planning camping trips, Brian gives some great insight during this conversation.

#070 Court Douthit: Get A Round Tuit

In this podcast, we sit down with Court Douthit of the Saltwater Specialist located in Tampa Bay. In this episode, Court shares the correlations between hiking and flats fishing, how he worked through a tough season of life while spending 11 months camping in the Florida Everglades, and his philosophy on enjoying life and sharing it with others.

Guiding Flow Series: The Obsession of Carter Andrews

n this podcast, we sit down with Carter Andrews, host of The Obsession of Carter Andrews, and discuss how he got started as a guide, and his experience running lodges and chasing fish around the world. Carter shares how he has been able to take big risks in life, the importance of understanding your gear, and how his childhood shaped his love for conservation. Carter recently received the Costa Sunglasses and Captains for Clean Water Stewardship Award.

Guiding Flow Series: Depolarizing Conservation and Building Up Advocates

Guiding Flow Series: Depolarizing Conservation and Building Up Advocates. In this podcasts, Hunter sits down in Louisiana with Lucas Bissett of AFFTA, Kyle Schaefer of Soul Fly Lodge, and Benny Blanco of Guiding Flow TV in order to discuss how we can continue to fight for the waters we love and build up more advocates.

Guiding Flow Series: Hilary Hutcheson

In this podcast series, we have teamed up with our friends at Guiding Flow TV. Each interview is designed to continue the conversation and focus the guest. In this episode, we sit down with Hilary Hutcheson to discuss her journey as a writer, angler, guide and conservationist. Hilary shares her story of growing up as a kid exploring the waters of Montana, how she has evolved as a guide and angler, and what draws her to the fight for Mosquito Lagoon.

#066 Jako Lucas: Giant Trevally , International Guiding, and Dealing with Criticism

In this podcast, we sit down with Jako Lucas of Capt. Jack Productions and discuss his upbringing in South Africa, how he became an international fishing guide, his career in … Continue reading #066 Jako Lucas: Giant Trevally , International Guiding, and Dealing with Criticism

#064 John Dunaway: Learnings from Life at Sea

In this podcast, we sit down with John Dunaway who has traveled to over 35 countries, captaining large vessels. In this episode, John shares how he got started in the Merchant Marine Industry, his love for photography, and how he has learned to remove “blockages” that we all experience in order to pursue the next “trip of a lifetime.” John also shares some tips on planning, boat navigation, and a recent trip he too to Devils River with our friends at Turtlebox Audio.

Guiding Flow Series: A Chance to Save Florida’s Everglades

In this series, Captains Collective works with the television show Guiding Flow in order to further the conversations and discussions featured on each episode. In this podcasts, Hunter sits down with Chris Wittman of Captains for Clean Water in order to discuss the problems facing Florida’s water, and the current opportunity we have to save Florida’s Everglades.

#063 Jonathan Moss: Teaching, Television, and Taking Leaps of Faith

In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan Moss of the Captains Log and discuss how he went from being an elementary school PE teacher to a full time guide and television show host. We also discuss tips for working with kids on the water, how leaps of faith can work out, and lessons he has learned from filming and travel.

#062 Ty Hibbs: Louisiana Jacks, Cajun Crawfish, and Learning from Others

In this episode, we sit down with Captain Ty Hibbs and discuss his home waters of Louisiana, how he wade fishes for summer time jacks, cajun crawfish, and how he has tried to learn from others. We also discuss some tips on kayak fishing and how to avoid common mistakes that anglers and guides make.

#061 Royce Dahnke: Shallow Flats, Blue Water, and Hunting Crossovers

#061 Royce Dahnke: Shallow Flats, Blue Water, and Hunting Crossovers. In this podcast, we sit down with Royce Dahnke of Cast’n Blast Charters which runs both inshore and offshore charters in Destin Florida. In this episode, Royce shares with me stories of his childhood, growing up and learning from his father who guided for nearly 50 years, and how Royce found his own love for fishing while sneaking into the school library to read books about fishing and the water. We also discussed his latest venture in offshore fishing. the similarities he has picked up on between deep sea and flats fishing, and the carryover he has experienced from also being an avid hunter.

#060 Jamie Howard: Fishing, Filming, and Working through the Chaos

In today’s episode, I sit down with filmmaker Jamie Howard and discuss his career in outdoor media, the stories of some of his most iconic movies like Chasing Silver and In Search of a Rising Tide. We also discuss how he went from being a kid in Virginia running around recording audio of birds to working with some of the best anglers on the water around the world. Jamie also shares how he has been influenced by his projects as an angler, his care for conservation, the tricky balance of showing fisheries without exploiting them, and how he has learned to work amongst the chaos that comes with production. Learn more about him at HowardFilms.com

#059 Chris Herrera: Smoking Meat: Battling Cancer, and the Importance of Positivity

In this podcast, we sit down with Captain Chris Herrera of Palm Coast Charters and Captains BBQ. In this episode, we discuss Chris’ history as a guide, his love for good bbq, tactics for finding redfish in muddy and deep waters, and how his battle with cancer has changed the way he sees life on and off the water.

#058: Brian Jill: Traveling the World, Exploring the Unknown, and Dealing with Pressured Fisheries

In this podcast, we sit down with Brian Jill and discuss how he got into guiding and filmmaking, what goes into producing great content, and his adventures fishing around the … Continue reading #058: Brian Jill: Traveling the World, Exploring the Unknown, and Dealing with Pressured Fisheries

#057 Simon Perkins: Learning from the Best, Lowering Walls, and Caring About More than Margins

In this podcast, we sit down with Simon Perkins of Orvis. In this episode, we discuss how he discovered his own love for the outdoors, product development, Orvis’ recent skiff … Continue reading #057 Simon Perkins: Learning from the Best, Lowering Walls, and Caring About More than Margins

#056 Kyle Schaefer: Cold Showers, New England Stripers, and Adapting to Different Environments

In this podcast, we sit down with Kyle Schaefer and discuss how he got into guiding and his experiences working in Colorado, the Bahama’s and New England. We also discuss his effort to become carbon neutral, tips on site-fishing striped bass, and why one summer he had to take cold showers.

#055 Vince Stegura: Fishing the Waters of Oman and Fighting for Authenticity

In this episode, we sit down with Vince Stegura of Skinny Water Culture and discuss his upbringing in South Florida, his teenage days of chasing snook in Tampa Bay, the impact of fishing the Waters of Oman, and what he has learned through Building Skinny Water Culture. We also discuss the importance of surrounding yourself with great guides and people, and what makes a great angler.

#054 Adam Hudson: The Road to Recovery, Shallow Water Redfish, and Lessons from Around the World

In this podcast, I sit down with Captain Adam Hudson and discuss tips for chasing winter redfish, his battle with sobriety, and the significance he has found in community. Adam also shares with us tips about maximizing mentors, the impact of reading great literature, and his early days as a ski bum in Colorado & Montana.

#053 Marty Gallipeau: Long Trips, a Love for Food, and Pushing through the Ups and Downs

In this podcast, we sit down with Marty Gallipeau of Badfish Supply. In this episode, we discuss what long road trips have taught Marty about life and the outdoors. Marty also shares with us a smoked blue fish recipe for the Traeger, and tells his story of pushing through challenges in order to pursue his dream of working in the outdoor industry. Also make sure to check out Marty and I’s Holiday Gift Guide at CaptainsCollective.com

Captains Collective Holiday Gift Guide

THE unofficial, semi-certified, number one and only source for your outdoor gifts. Marty Gallipeau of Badfish Supply and I teamed up to have some fun and put this list together. This is not marketing. These are all products that we actually love and use. To learn more about these great products, make sure to listen to our podcast. Feel free to email us some of your favorite Holiday gifts by reaching out to Hunter@CaptainsCollective.com.

#052 Round Table: Lisa Rinaman, Rami Ashouri, and Benny Blanco

In this special live recording, we sit down with Lisa Rinaman of the St. John’s Riverkeeper, Captain Rami Ashouri, and Captain Benny Blanco. This podcast was a collaboration with the television show Guiding Flow. To see Hunter and Benny spend the day on the boat in Jacksonville, and clips of this recording, check out their episode on WAYPOINT TV.

#051 John Landry: Bristol Bay, the Everglades, and “Everyone in Between”

In this episode, we sit down with Captain John Landry and discuss how he went from fishing Florida’s flats with his father to guiding in Alaska’s iconic Bristol Bay. We also discuss fish camp pranks, dealing with bears, dogs, salmon, tarpon and his involvement in Captains for Clean Water’s recent film “Everyone in Between.”

#050 Jeremy Clark: The (Seemingly) Mundane

In this episode, we sit down with Jeremy Clark and discuss photography, fishing, and his appreciation for the “seemingly mundane.” We also discuss tips on tackling difficult learning curves, his worse gear blunders, and the significance of a near-death experience he had in New Zealand. To learn more about Jeremy check out http://www.Jerms1977.com

#049 Andy Bowen: Georgia on the Mind

In this episode, we sit down with Andy Bowen of Cohutta Fishing Company, and discuss his upbringing in Georgia, chasing bass as the son of a farmer who eventually found his way to owning a guide service in the mountains of north Georgia. In this podcast, we discuss leading fishing trips to international destinations, chasing Roosterfish, the importance of listening, and why anglers shouldn’t overlook fishing in his home state.

#048 John Irwin: Pursuing Cobia, Growing from Pressure, and Sewing Up Fish

In this episode, we sit down with Captain John Irwin of Charleston South Carolina and discuss a wide range of topics spanning from world travel to family balance. John also shares some interesting information about Cobia, and how a project with the DNR taught him how to sew.

#047 Chris Peterson: Beating Cancer, Building Boats, and Never Growing Up

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Peterson, owner of Hells Bay Boat Works, and discuss the early days of his childhood in Florida, his fight with cancer, the importance of listening to guides when building skiffs, and how he went from being a kid exploring with a flat-back canoe to owning the world renowned Hells Bay Boat Works today.

#045 Paul Puckett: Art, Travel, Sketchy Stuff & Smoked Okra

#045 Paul Puckett: Art, Travel, Sketchy Stuff & Smoked Okra . In this podcast, we sit down with Paul Puckett of Flood Tide Company and discuss his childhood chasing bass in Texas, how he learned that guiding wasn’t for him, his career as an artist, travel, fishing, and the importance of enjoying the moment. Paul also shares with us why he loves sketching in his infamous notebook, and a smoked okra recipe for the Traeger (Smoke’ra). To learn more about this podcast, head to CaptainsCollective.com

#043 Billy Rotne: Bull Reds, Biology, and the Importance of Being Aware

In this episode, we sit down with Billy Rotne and discuss his home fishery of the historic Mosquito Lagoon, and how his background in biology has helped him as a guide. During this podcast, Billy shares with us the his love for targeting trophy class fish, tips on learning new fisheries, and how a purchase at a flea market as a kid led to a life long love of fishing.

#041 Alycia Downs: Sharing Stories, Setting an Example, and Championing Stewardship

In this episode, we sit down with Alycia Downs of Captains for Clean Water and discuss her background in the outdoors and marketing. We also discuss the power that good … Continue reading #041 Alycia Downs: Sharing Stories, Setting an Example, and Championing Stewardship

#040 Rick Ruoff: Dealing with Change, Traveling the World, and Polling Till You Run Into Something

In this episode, we sit down with Captain Rick Ruoff and discuss his career of 50+ years of guiding. Rick began guiding in 1969 as a college student studying biology, and has spent a lifetime on the water. Rick guides in the Keys and Montana, and has helped scout different fisheries around the world. In this podcast Rick shares with us tips on scouting, dealing with change, and how to keep your ego in check.

#039 Drew Chicone: Slowing Down, Tying Flies and Passing Knowledge Along

In this episode, we sit down with Drew Chicone of Salty Fly Tying and discuss how he started his business and career in the outdoor industry. We also discuss family, food, and the importance of slowing down and passing knowledge of what you love along. Drew is a father, author, photographer, fly-tier, instructor, and a well-respected voice in the fishing community.

#038 Debbie Hanson: Being Prepared, Putting the Puzzle Pieces Together, and Guiding for Peacock Bass

In this podcast we sit down with award winning writer and fishing guide Debbie Hanson of She Fishes Too. We talk about guiding in Florida’s fresh water fisheries, the importance of always being prepared, and how her grandfather taught her to pay attention during her early days of fishing the waters of Michigan’s Stanley Lake. We also discuss helping more females engage in fishing, and her experience helping at-risk-teens encounter the water for the first time.

#034 John McCloskey: Giving Instruction, Reading People, and Getting Your Face On A Beer Can

In this episode, we sit down with John McCloskey who guides both in Alaska and North Georgia. John specializes in spay fishing and swinging streamers for monster fish and in this podcast we talk about John’s introduction to flyfishing, how he has grown as a guide, what he has learned from teaching other guides, and how he got his face on one of Sweetwater’s lagers, Guide Beer.

#033 Dave Bradley: Chasing Permit, Fishing Australia, and Making it Up as You Go

In this episode, we sit down with Dave Bradley of Australian Flyfishing Outfitters and discuss his how he encountered fly fishing in Australia, which eventually led him to frequent trips to Florida where he got the chance to learn from some legendary anglers. We also discuss chasing permit and giant trevally, remote mothership trips, and hear about his love for motorbikes and tattoos.

#031 Tommy Koulouris: Fin and Fowl

In this episode, we sit down with Tommy Koulouris of Fin and Fowl Florida. After a season guiding waterfowl, we discussed his transition from a skiff to a duck blind, as well as the importance of practice, helping clients with their nerves, and why it is important to shut up and listen to older mentors. Tommy also shared a pretty awesome recipe for Shrimp on the Traeger as well, as how to make an “authentic” Greek Salad. To learn more about the Captains Collective, head to http://www.CaptainsCollective.com

#027 JT Van Zandt: Keep it Simple, Fight for Progress, and Enjoy the Journey

In this episode, we sit down with JT Van Zandt of Rockport Texas and discuss his journey into guiding, how he approaches conservation, his hopes for future progress, and a slough of topics including beard care, Texas food, and hunting.

#026 Chase Hancock: Fishing Flood Tides, Seeking Change, Raising Kids, and Skinny Water Culture

In this episode, we sit down with Chase Hancock of Skinny Water Culture and discuss fishing flood tides, needed changes in the outdoor industry, raising kids, and the story of … Continue reading #026 Chase Hancock: Fishing Flood Tides, Seeking Change, Raising Kids, and Skinny Water Culture

#025 Brett Martina: Hometown Roots

In this episode, we sit down with Brett Martina of Apalachi Inshore and discuss his small town upbringing, the importance of authenticity, and how to protect a great fishery. We also fail at an attempt to get his infamous soft-shell crab recipe. Brett is a great flats fishing guide and is filled with fun stories and helpful insights.

#024 Vaughn Cochran: Life, Art, and a Love for the Water

In this episode, we sit down with Vaughn Cochran, the creator of the iconic Blackfly brand. After finishing an art degree at USF, Vaughn made his way to the Keys to begin a life of art, music, and fishing. From performing in Jimmy Buffet’s Band, to selling t-shirts out of a small market stand, Vaughn shares his stories and lessons he has learned along the way.

#023 Al Keller: Travel, Navigating Tension, and Tactics for Getting Business

In this episode, we sit down with Al Keller of NOLA Guides and discuss the perks and challenges of guiding on the road, how minimalism has impacted the way he lives and guides, tips on building up a client list to not only fill up a calendar but specialize in something that you are passionate about. Al has been guiding for roughly 25 years and currently splits his time between the 10,000 islands area and Louisiana.

#022 Tom Rosenbauer: Catching Breaks, Teaching Others, and Keeping It Simple

In this episode, we sit down with Tom Rosenbauer of Orvis Fly Fishing. Tom has become a household name in the fishing after 30 plus years of working with Orvis, publishing books, instructional videos and hosting the Orvis Flyfishing Guide Podcast. In this podcast we discuss his background with Orvis, what makes great outdoorsmen, and what he has learned from decades of teaching others.

#021 Lacey Kelly: Overcoming Obstacles and Seeing the Outdoors through a Child’s Eyes

In this podcast, we sit down with Captain Lacey Kellywho guides hunting and fishing with Florida Outdoor Experience.

Lacey began guiding in Fort Myers Florida, spent a season of life in Belize, and eventually made her way to Florida’s Nature Coast fishing along areas like Cedar Key and Homosassa. 

#020 Cleve Evans: Resilience, Recovery, and Rebuilding from Hurricane Michael

In this episode, we sit down with Captain Cleve Evans of Forgotten Coast on the Fly and talk about his experience with Hurricane Michael which completely destroyed his home and city. During this podcast, we talk about resilience, recovery efforts, the need for rebuilding, and of course…fishing. We also got a chance to discuss how Guide Beer played a critical role in helping Cleve get back on his feet after the storm.

#019 Benny Blanco: More Education, Better Water, and Becoming an Advocate

In this episode, we sit down with Captain Benny Blanco, host of the new outdoor show Florida Sportsman Watermen. We discuss a variety of subjects ranging from his history in South Florida, issues with water quality, improving environmental education, tips on working with clients, and his hope for the future of “outdoor entertainment.”

#017 Greg Dini: Coaching Clients, Chasing Redfish, and Treating Every Cast Like It’s Your Last

In this episode, we sit down with Greg Dini of Flywater Expeditions and discuss how he got into guiding, challenges of spending time on the road, Louisiana Redfish, and how college baseball taught him to better coach clients.

#016 Jordan Todd: Hurricanes, Side Hustles, and Learning to Love the Water

In this podcast, we sit down with Jordan Todd of Salt Water Obsessions and talk about Port Saint Joe, Hurricane Michael, how side hustles helped build his business, and his family’s love for the water. Jordan’s mother helped instill in him at a young age a love for the water. After receiving a degree in Marine Biology, Jordan began to build a business in his home waters of Northwest Florida. To follow him online check out SaltwaterObsessions.com or follow @Saltwater_Obsessions on Instagram.

#015 Larry Hastings: Sixty Years of Stories, Bonefish, and Shooting Stuff from Helicopters

In this episode, we sit down with Larry Hastings who spent over sixty years of his life working on the water. During this interview, we got a chance to hear about how he went from being a deckhand in Ocean City Maryland to running the prestigious fishing yacht the Buckpasser. From the early days of bonefishing to shooting turkeys from helicopters, this episode is filled with interesting stories that took a lifetime to gather.

#014 Jonathan “Stump” Hamilton: Looking for Patterns, Building a Reputation, and Giving 110%

In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan “Stump” Hamilton and discuss his views on how to identify patterns in the fishery, how he has worked to build his business, … Continue reading #014 Jonathan “Stump” Hamilton: Looking for Patterns, Building a Reputation, and Giving 110%

#013 Chip Leavine: Celebrating Fathers, Investing In Clients, and Always Learning

In this special Father’s Day episode, we sit down with Captain Chip Leavine of FC Charters located in Carrabelle Florida. In this podcast we celebrate the life of Bob Wells, discuss the significance of fathers, how to invest in clients, and what it means to be always learning.

#012 David Mangum: Focused and Unfiltered

In this podcast we sit down with David Mangum of Shallow Water Expeditions and talk about his history as a guide, and what it has looked like for him to go all in on Tarpon. We also discuss the importance of focus, scouting, and the “necessary evil” of social media.

#011 Lionel James: Having a Fighter’s Mindset, Marketing, and Fun-First-Fishing

In this episode, we sit down with Lionel James of Lions Tale Adventures, and Cali Hlavac, and discuss marketing, social media, and how mixed martial arts influenced Lionel’s approach to guiding. Lionel and Cali are located in Destin Florida. They run their business as a team and in this podcast, they share a lot of insight into how they are continuing to expand their influence. To find out more visit LionsTaleAdventures.com

#009 Eugene Shuler: Leading a Guide Staff, Knowing History, and Smokey Mountain Trout

In this episode, we interview Eugene Shuler of Fly Fish the Smokies. Eugene is our first freshwater Captain on the podcast and has been guiding for over 20 years. Eugene was recently inducted into the Southern Trout Hall of Fame, is a third generation guide in the Smokies, owns a fly shop, and leads a large guide staff of over 20 guides. In this episode, we talk about how to scale up a guiding business, hire the right staff, invest in the next generation, and how knowing the history of your area can help on the water.

#005 Rob Fordyce: Dedication, Details, and Dialing In On Tarpon

In this podcast, we sit down with Rob Fordyce from the tv show The SeaHunter. Rob has been a professional guide, tv host, and athlete for 30 years. Rob is a serious tournament angler and has placed top three in over 130 tournaments. Rob also wrote a great book on Tarpon fishing, Tarpon on Fly. Follow Rob on Instagram @TheVoodooDaddy.

#003 Bou Bosso: Guard Your Passion, Tips On Guiding, and Chasing Fish In Your Underwear.

In this episode, we sit down with Bou Bosso of Islamorada Florida. Bou is a world-class flats guide, a passionate angler, and was as a founding member of Silver Kings TV.  We … Continue reading #003 Bou Bosso: Guard Your Passion, Tips On Guiding, and Chasing Fish In Your Underwear.