120 Outdoors Podcast

In this episode, we’re diving into one of the Great Lakes’ most fascinating and destructive invasive species, the sea lamprey.

Our guest is Joe Brancato, Aquatic Biologist Supervisor with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Joe takes us through the history of sea lampreys in the Great Lakes, how they made their way into the upper Great Lakes, and why their life cycle makes them such a formidable threat to native fish populations.

We’ll explore the methods used to control sea lamprey populations, manage their habitat, and protect the Great Lakes ecosystem. Joe also shares the success stories and conservation efforts that have helped turn the tide against this invasive species.

If you’re passionate about the Great Lakes, fishing, aquatic ecosystems, or invasive species management, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

On this episode, we welcome back steelhead expert John Breedlove to talk all things steelhead fishing.

Before the interview, we discuss the upcoming Steelhead Expo sponsored by the Central Basin Steelheaders and Cleveland Metroparks.

John shares his unique approach to steelhead fishing from his boat, including what triggers the steelhead run and his KISS—Keep It Simple, Stupid—method for finding and catching fish. He breaks down his setups, lure combinations, boat control, and electronics, while explaining why adapting to changing conditions is so important.

Whether you’re new to steelhead fishing or looking to take your game to the next level, John offers plenty of practical tips and insight.

If you love steelhead fishing, this is an episode you won’t want to miss

Clint McCoy, Ohio’s Whitetail Deer Biologist discusses EHD . 

This is an episode you won’t want to miss. Clint gives us an inside look at his role as Ohio’s deer biologist and helps break down one of the biggest challenges facing Ohio’s whitetail herd—Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD).

We talk about the devastating 2025 EHD outbreak in Ohio and how a perfect storm of weather and environmental conditions came together to create such a difficult year for the deer herd.

Clint also explains EHD, what it means for Ohio’s deer, how the outbreak challenged existing immunity, and—most importantly—why there is reason to be optimistic about the future of Ohio’s whitetails.

A great conversation packed with information for anyone who cares about Ohio deer and the outdoors.

In this episode, we sit down with renowned fly fishing expert, educator, and outdoor writer Gary Kell to explore the incredible fishing opportunities hidden within Pennsylvania’s Allegheny National Forest. Gary shares why the forest is a destination for anglers seeking trophy trout while also highlighting the outstanding fly fishing available for smallmouth bass, muskie, and northern pike. He discusses the importance of adapting to changing water conditions, finding overlooked fisheries, and making the most of every day on the water. We also talk about Gary’s fly fishing schools, his approach to teaching anglers of all skill levels, and his coauthored book, Keystone Fly Fishing. Whether you’re planning your next fishing adventure or looking to improve your skills, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration to help you discover some of Pennsylvania’s best waters.

Join us as we sit down with Shane Hofius from the Mill Creek Coalition to discuss Acid Mine Drainage (AMD)—what it is, how it began, and why it continues to impact our streams and waterways today. Shane explains the science behind AMD, its effects on aquatic life and water quality, and the long-term environmental challenges it creates.

We also explore the different treatment methods used to restore affected streams, the costs involved, and how restoration projects are prioritized. Shane shares inspiring success stories that show what’s possible through dedicated restoration efforts and emphasizes the importance of regional collaboration in protecting our watersheds.

Whether you’re passionate about conservation or interested in learning more about ADM this episode offers some insight into an important environmental issue.

Ohio is full of great fishing opportunities, and some of the best ones are hiding in its streams. On today’s episode, award-winning outdoor writer and guidebook author Robert Loewendick joins the show to talk about why these overlooked waters deserve more attention. Bob shares how he finds hidden streams, the best times to fish them, and breaks down fly-fishing gear in a way that’s easy for anyone to understand.

Along the way, he tells a few stories about unexpected discoveries on the water, reveals one of his favorite places to fish, and explains why protecting yourself from ticks is just as important as packing the right tackle.

If you enjoy the great outdoors this podcast is for you!

Sam Horn: Sandusky Bay Catfish

Well known Lake Erie guide and Angry Floaters Charter Service owner Sam Horn joins the show to talk about the incredible channel catfish fishery in Sandusky Bay. Sam discusses the history of catfish in the bay, seasonal movements, the importance of currents and water flow, and his favorite setups and baits for targeting big fish. He also shares the funny story behind the Angry Floaters name. If you’re interested in Sandusky Bay catfishing, this episode is for you.

Yellow Perch Fishing with John Hageman

Retired Stone Lab professor, award-winning outdoor writer, and avid angler John Hageman joins the podcast to discuss the decline of yellow perch populations and why Lake Erie’s western basin remains a perch stronghold. We cover spawning habits, the impact of spiny water fleas, and John’s favorite perch fishing setup, along with some of his recommended locations.

If you’re interested in Great Lakes yellow perch, this episode is for you.

Trolling for Muskie with Kevin Goldberg.

Our special guest on today’s show is Kevin Goldberg, a well-known muskie angler from across the Midwest. Kevin is highly skilled in both casting and trolling for muskie, and in this episode he shares his approach to trolling success.

Kevin breaks down his basic trolling setup, including his favorite rods, reels, and line choices. He also dives into rod holder configurations, planer board setups, and how he uses GPS, fish finders, and side-scan technology to locate and target fish more effectively.

The conversation also covers Kevin’s go-to bait selection and the essential tools needed to safely handle and release muskie. Whether you’re new to muskie fishing or a seasoned angler looking to sharpen your trolling game, this podcast is packed with practical insights.

Our special guest on today’s Bonus Episode is Christian Boyer. Christian is a Tick Specialist with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.

During the episode, Christian discusses the growing tick problem and explains why the cold winter did not significantly reduce tick populations. He also highlights that ticks can transmit many illnesses beyond Lyme disease and examines how warming trends have expanded the geographic range of ticks. In addition, Christian shares practical strategies for preventing tick bites and offers advice on how to better protect your yard and pets from ticks. If you want to gain a better understanding of this growing problem this podcast is for you.