The Speckled Truth Podcast

In this episode, Chris sits down with Captain Sally Black. Aside from her guiding story, she shares stories of resolve and overcoming adversity all while becoming the first female guide on Baffin Bay. This story is a must listen!

In this episode, Chris sits with Captain Wyatt Foster. As a 25-year old paving his own way in the fishery, Wyatt discussed what led him to be a full-time guide and how he’s succeeded in catching Giant trout so early in his career. He also shares some Legends Saltwater Series stories as well as his favorite way to chase big trout. Be sure to listen to this one!

In this episode, Chris sits down with the CCA Marine Development Center Hatchery manager Ashley Fincannon. Located in Flour Bluff, Texas, her hatchery was the first state operated hatchery. The hatchery produces juvenile red drum, spotted sea trout and southern flounder for releasing into Texas bays for stock enhancement. Just recently the team released their 1 billionth fingerling into the fishery. Needless to say, Ashley and her team play a big role in the future of fishing in Texas and we’re forever grateful. We hope you enjoy!

In this episode, Chris talks with Darren Jones, the owner of Feral Concepts. Aside from sharing the companies' original story, Darren goes into great detail about some of the products. Lastly, reflect on their time in the military. It’s an episode we’re sure you’ll enjoy!

In this episode, Chris sits down with Captain Joey Farrah from Corpus Christi, Texas. They discuss learning from legends, to exploring the technical approach for big trout, especially from the boat. Lastly, Joey shares some insight on his story and how he went from managing his dad’s bar to being one of the most tenured guides on the Texas coast.

In this episode, Chris sits down with former commercial fisherman and Marker 37 owner Ernie Butler. Together they discuss the Laguna Madre and Ernie reflects on his commercial fishing days that spanned from the 1960’s to 1981. He shares stories of his early days in Baffin and some of his big trout stories. Ernie also shares the origin story of his infamous Marker 37 marina. This is one episode you sure don’t want to miss.

In this episode, Chris sits down and talks with Jay Kleberg about the legacy of the King Ranch. He also shares the many projects he advocates for as the Executive Director of The Gulf Trust. Lastly, they discuss Chasing the Tide - a 370 mile journey him and his wife took walking the TX Barrier islands from Sabine Pass to Boca Chica.

In this episode, Chris talks to Ryan Watkins about his angling upbringing. As the youngest son of legendary guide Jay Watkins, he shares what led him to success on the College Bass Fishing stage and what parallels saltwater anglers can draw from freshwater industry. Hope you enjoy!

In this episode, Chris sits down with Ethan Getz, the Baffin Bay Systems Manager from Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPWD). They discuss what makes this bay system one of the most unique marine ecosystems in the world, as well as historical studies completed on the bay. Ethan also shares what he projects TPWD and his team are doing to ensure the sustainability of this world class fishery. Hope you enjoy!

In this episode, we sit down with Nathan Garrison and discuss how he created a shark deterrent product called Sharkbanz. From a simple idea to now a globally known product, he shares his story with us. What was initially intended for surfers ended up becoming a must have for fisherman and divers around the globe!

In this episode, I reminisce with my dad about some incredible trips we've been fortunate to share as father and son over the years. We also discuss the changes within the Louisiana Delta over the years as a cautionary tale for other fisheries. Lastly, we discuss my dads family motto of God, Family and Fishing. We hope you enjoy!

In this two-part episode, we talk with Jimmy Burns, owner of Waterloo Rods. As a south Texas native, he shares his upbringing and how he acquired Waterloo Rods. Over the years, Waterloo has made its mark in the industry being know as some of the best rods available. They also have one of the best tackle stores in the country for targeting inshore species. Jimmy shares how they got there and what it takes to stay on top! Hope you enjoy!

In this two-part episode, we talk with Jimmy Burns, owner of Waterloo Rods. As a south Texas native, he shares his upbringing and how he acquired Waterloo Rods. Over the years, Waterloo has made its mark in the industry being know as some of the best rods available. They also have one of the best tackle stores in the country for targeting inshore species. Jimmy shares how they got there and what it takes to stay on top! Hope you enjoy!

In this episode, Captain Kyle Johnson sits down with the director of production for Grundéns Curtis Graves to talk about all things outdoor apparel. They cover from the design to long term care of GORE-TEX to get the most out of your investment. Curtis sheds some light on the process of making some of the toughest gear on the market made for the harshest conditions.

In this episode, Captain Chris sits down with Mr. Dakus Geeslin, Deputy Director, Coastal Fisheries Division at Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). They not only discuss the chronological events of the 2021 Texas Freeze but explore TPWD’s response to its devastating effects. Here, Dakus lends some transparency and insight to the events that preceded the event but also how they came up with the emergency measures as a result of creel limit response. Lastly, they talk about the effects of the hatchery and its influence to the post freeze recovery. This is an episode you don’t want to miss!

In this episode, Captain Chris sits down with Captain Josh Sutton from North Carolina to talk about finding his venture as an inshore guide. Facing a major setback in his early life, Captain Josh shares how trout fishing presented his true calling in life and how he overcame those struggles. Lastly, they dive into throwing top waters for big trout. It’s an episode you don’t want to miss!

In this episode, Captain Chris talks big trout along the Texas Middle Coast with one of the best, Captain Brett Sweeny. As a Guide in the Matagorda Complex, he shares how he got his start as well as his past tournament success. In addition, they discuss the Dirty 30 and state citation data, and the state of the region since the 2021 Freeze. Lastly, Captain Brett shares some incredible catches and what drives him to be the best guide and tournament angler he can be. This is an episode you don’t want to miss.

In this episode, Captain Kyle sits down with Rob and Bill from Hook and Bullet Sunglasses to discuss how choosing the right lenses can lead to catching more fish. They give great insight into their process to provide purpose-built optics for any fishing situation. They also explore some myths about fishing lenses and give advice on choosing the right lenses for the right job, especially targeting big trout on the flats. Hope you enjoy!

In this episode, Chris sits down with one of the youngest guides in the Texas Fleet - Captain Joe Prado. Aside from talking about how he targets big trout in the lower Laguna, he also shares a younger perspective at long term fishery sustainability and how he plays a role in that endeavor. So whether you’re interested in how a young guide gets his start or Fatboy floaters for big trout, this episode is a good listen!

In this episode, Captain Chris sits down with Coastal Conservation Association President Pat Murray. We discuss his early days of guiding the Texas Coast to becoming the leader of a national organization aimed at protecting fisheries and habitat across so many state spectrums. From old fishing stories to challenges facing the everyday angler, this is a great listen.

In this conversation, Chris and Kyle catch up on all things Chandeleur and Conservation. For those that don't know, Captain Kyle from Coastal Waters Outfitters is one of the triad that makes up the Speckled Truth. Since he became a full-time guide, he talks about growing his business, which includes Chandeleur Day Trips, and how incorporating a conservation approach has opened new doors into the industry. Simply put, this is a long overdue conversation between the two and we hope you enjoy this 2-part episode.

In this conversation, Chris and Kyle catch up on all things Chandeleur and Conservation. For those that don't know, Captain Kyle from Coastal Waters Outfitters is one of the triad that makes up the Speckled Truth. Since he became a full-time guide, he talks about growing his business, which includes Chandeleur Day Trips, and how incorporating a conservation approach has opened new doors into the industry. Simply put, this is a long overdue conversation between the two and we hope you enjoy this 2-part episode.

In this episode, we talk about all things for glide baiting Big Trout! Mike Herrmann, a SE Louisiana native, starting hand-making his own glide baits back in 2009. In this conversation he discusses how his concepts came to life and the effort and ingenuity he uses to built one of kind creations to target big trout. So whether you're new to big glide baits or an avid angler to this technique, you're certain to get some useful info. Hope you enjoy this episode!

In Part 2, Captain Chris continues his conversation with Captain Richard Rutland from Coastal Alabama. Captain Richard owns and operates Cold Blooded Fishing Service out of Mobile AL. Aside from Guiding, he is a leader for the CCA Alabama led tagging program. From primitive dart tags to geotagging, he works with state agencies and encourages active participation from his charter clientele. Enjoy part 2!

In this Part 1, Captain Chris sits down with Captain Richard Rutland from Coastal Alabama. Captain Richard owns and operates Cold Blooded Fishing Service out of Mobile AL. Aside from Guiding, he is a leader for the CCA Alabama led tagging program. From primitive dart tags to geotagging, he works with state agencies and encourages active participation from his charter clientele. Enjoy part 1!

In this episode, Captain Chris sits down with Corpus Christi Angler Michael Salinas. For those that don’t know Michael, he’s the epitome of humility and dedication. His passion for targeting big trout consumes his life and has payed off with some incredible trout. We not only talk about big trout but his favorite bourbons and what’s made him consistent over the years. So sit back and enjoy this episode!

In this episode, Captain Chris spares no time getting into the uniqueness of Venice, Louisiana with Full Time guide - Captain Shane Mayfield. He shares stories from the his time guiding the Mississippi River delta and why it's noted for its world class fishing. They also discuss environmental challenges facing the state, particularly coastal erosion and how anglers will play a large role in the sustainability of that fishery. Enjoy the show!

The time has finally come for season 3 because Pops is back on the podcast! In this episode, Captain Chris sits down with his dad Captain Charlie Bush to talk about life after Hurricane Ida. They also catch up on old times and reminisce about some legendary spots that they fished years ago. So without further delay, let's kick off Season 3!

Few have earned the title Troutmaster and Capt David Rowsey is one of them. In this 2nd part of this 2-part episode, we explore his thoughts on conservation and how imperative guides are in changing the angler mindset. We also discuss some of his most memorable catches while fishing in the Laguna and during his tournament life. Hope you enjoy!

Few have earned the title Troutmaster and Captain David Rowsey is one of them. In this episode, we explore how he not only got into fishing but how he got into guiding. We also explore his tournament life and how he carved his name alongside the legendary trout anglers on the Texas Coast. I assure you this is one you don't want to miss!

In this episode, we get to hear from Todd Masson from the popular YouTube channel Marsh Man Masson. Although he's very popular online, his journey in producing content started in fishing journalism for Louisiana Sportsman and we're fortunate he shares that journey with us. So whether you're a budding YouTube fishing star or interested in Speckled Trout fishing in Southeast Louisiana, this is a must listen episode.

In this episode, Captain Chris and Captain Wayne Davis sit down with Dr. Greg Stunz and Quentin Hall from the Harte Research Institute to discuss some truth's behind Catch and Release. For a little over a decade, Dr. Stunz and his team have done exclusive research on the survivability of Speckled Trout that have been caught and released. Not only does Doc go into detail about the results of that study, but they also talk about angler practice and general misnomers surrounding catch and release. Without a doubt this episode is very insightful and I hope it changes some of your viewpoints and approach. Enjoy!

In this episode, Captain Chris sits down with Dr. David McKee. Dr. McKee is a retired fisheries professor at Texas A&M Corpus Christi and he shares a mountain of historical information and Angling stories from the Texas Bays. From his early run in with the now infamous Gary Loomis to a world class collection of angling gear (rods/reels/lures) that fueled the fishing lure industry to its present day, Dr. McKee is a Texas Angling treasure and in this podcast he shares many of those experiences. This was a fun one to record and we hope you enjoy!

Baffin Bay in South Texas is known for its legendary Trophy Trout Fishing. In this episode, Captain Chris sits down with a true legend of this infamous bay system, Captain Cliff Webb. Cliff not only shares his experiences of some remarkable catches from his childhood, but stories of legend like his single day 10 trout stringer that weighed a little over 96 lbs. He also shares his passion for these big fish and how we as a community can move forward to bring something like this back to the present day. Hope you enjoy!

In this episode, Captains Kyle and Lowell discuss a myriad of different topics like Custom Corky’s, as well as guiding on the TX coast in the mid 80’s. They also talk a lot about the tackle business and the many legends along the TX coast he's fished with over the years. Without a doubt Lowell is a treasure trove of information and we hope you enjoy all he has to say!

This week Captain Chris sits solo and reflects on the conservation programs that Speckled Truth has supported over the years, and shares his outlook for the programs and the future of the brand. Hopefully this episode is enlightening and transparent about his support for the fishery.

This episode Captain Chris switched it up, getting a rare opportunity to talk with Elite Series and MLF Bass angler Aaron Martens. Aarons accolades in the bass fishing world are beyond reproach, and he shares what it’s like competing against the best anglers in the world. As a 2-time Elite Series Angler of the year and 4-time runner up in the Bassmaster classic, he shares his views on conservation within the freshwater world and how that could translate the saltwater mindset. Lastly, they talk about approach, lure selection, angling confidence and instinct and how it’s transcends fisheries. Enjoy!

In light of recent weather events, Captain Chris had the opportunity to speak with Assistant Director, CCA Texas, Mr. John Blaha. They not only talked about the recent fish kill event but about the changes to the CCA STAR and ways the Texas Coast hatcheries may augment the return of healthy bay systems along the coast. Whether you’re a concerned angler or interested in getting involved this is an episode you’ll want to hear. Enjoy!

In this episode, Captain Chris and Virginia big trout angler Charlie Church dive into the Virginia Trout Fishing Citation data. Not only do they review it for any targeting trends but they also examine some pretty remarkable catches as well as periods of decline. Lastly, they also talk about Charlie's approach to targeting some gators in the commonwealth. Enjoy!

In this episode CaptainWayne Davis not only shares his journey about becoming a full-time guide, but his approach to different water conditions in the Lower Laguna Madre. Additionally, he also gives some insight into his participation for the Harte Research Institutes fish tagging initiative as well as the inception of his Empty Stringers Catch and Release Program. Without a doubt, Captain Wayne is a positive change agent for conservation, not only in the guide fleet, but across TX and the Gulf Coast. Enjoy!

Erica Rae is a born and raised Texan, who showed cattle and was fixated with the outdoors from an early age. It wasn’t until later in life that she found her true calling - targeting big trout in the lower Laguna Madre. In this podcast, she shares not only how she ended up on the lower coast but gives tremendous context of what it’s like be a female in the industry. Enjoy!

Captain Joey Landreneau is a Louisiana native but a Florida transplant for nearly 30 years. Capt. Landreneau was ahead of the curve by being one of the first anglers on Florida’s coast to use satellite imagery before it was even available on the internet. His analytical and methodical thought process helped him hone his skillset and develop not only a successful method for approaching big Speckled Trout but also a lure that was perfect for his style of fishing!

Captain Joey Landreneau is a Louisiana native but a Florida transplant for nearly 30 years. Capt. Landreneau was ahead of the curve by being one of the first anglers on Florida’s coast to use satellite imagery before it was even available on the internet. His analytical and methodical thought process helped him hone his skillset and develop not only a successful method for approaching big Speckled Trout but also a lure that was perfect for his style of fishing!

This 2-part episode is legendary to say the least. Mike Blackwood isn't a name that resonates with many people new to the sport outside of Texas, but like it or not, he's pioneered the notion of conservation on a national level. Aside from being one of the founding members of GCCA (Gulf Coast Conservation Association) which removed gill nets out of TX waters, then other states, which ultimately transformed into CCA, Mr. Blackwood owned the TX Speckled Trout State record for 21 years. In these episodes, he shares not only that incredible catch, but what he had to endure to ensure we had a fishery for the future. Bottom line, anglers from every state owe this man a huge debt of gratitude and we're fortunate that he sat down to share his life's work. Enjoy!

This 2-part episode is legendary to say the least. Mike Blackwood isn't a name that resonates with many people new to the sport outside of Texas, but like it or not, he's pioneered the notion of conservation on a national level. Aside from being one of the founding members of GCCA (Gulf Coast Conservation Association) which removed gill nets out of TX waters, then other states, which ultimately transformed into CCA, Mr. Blackwood owned the TX Speckled Trout State record for 21 years. In these episodes, he shares not only that incredible catch, but what he had to endure to ensure we had a fishery for the future. Bottom line, anglers from every state owe this man a huge debt of gratitude and we're fortunate that he sat down to share his life's work. Enjoy!

In this episode, I’m joined by an extremely well-accomplished Texas trout fisherman. From winning multiple Legends Saltwater Series Events to the Texas CCA Star, Lee Roy has no shortage of big fish experience under his belt. He not only goes in-depth about Corky’s but how he specializes in throwing a Fatboy Floater for Sightfishing Huge Trout. With a half dozen double-digit fish on his resume, he’s a remarkably humble person and insanely respected across all circles up and down the Texas Coast. Without a doubt this was one of the more informative episodes we’ve done and if you tune in I’m certain you’ll agree. Tight lines and enjoy!

In this episode, I had the pleasure to speak to THE artificial-only trout fishing pioneer in the Northeast Florida complex, Chip Davis. Aside from influencing many of the big trout anglers in that region, he’s been a mentor to so many staples in those fisheries. From 52M’s to Topwater, MirrOdine’s to soft plastics, he shares some of his knowledge about how to fish these baits in heavy current for big water/structure trout! If you love throwing it back and learning about your trout fishing lineage, this episode is a must listen!

We’re back for Season 2! Keeping with tradition, I sit down with my Dad, Captain Charlie Bush, to discuss his approach to being a more consistent trout angler. From pre-trip planning to on the water adjustments, my dad gives insight to his process that has led to insane production. From tagging and releasing 12,000 trout in 4 years for the TAG Louisiana program to now averaging 30 trout/trip over 100 trips, he discusses angling intuition and how being observant to the natural world could lead to better catch numbers. Without a doubt it’s a helluva way to kick off season 2. Welcome back everyone, and enjoy!

What a way to end the season! In this episode, Captain Chris sits down with Big Lake Legend Captain Bruce Baugh and none other than Mr. Paul Brown, the creator of the Corky. Mr. Paul not only shares how the Corky came about but he and Bruce share some unforgettable trips, together and separate, along the Texas Coast and SW Louisiana. Not only is this a trip down memory lane, but it gives insight to arguably how one of the greatest trout fishing lures came to be - an episode you don't want to miss! Thanks for all the support for this season and already looking forward to season 2!