Better Fishing with 2 Bald Biologists

You have all said it, “Where there’s grass there is bass.” Well WRC is growing aquatic plants to restore native aquatic plants and add habitat where needed. The Native Aquatic Plant Program has been around a while, but NCWRC just built a new state of the art nursery that will expand their capability. Join Corey and Ben as they talk with biologists Danny Morrill and Mark Fowlkes about the NCWRC’s Native Aquatic Plant Program.

Join Corey and Ben as they discuss Roanoke Bass fishing in North Carolina. Roanoke Bass are a sunfish species only found in North Carolina and Virginia. The bald biologists discuss the biology and habitats of this unique species while discussing great techniques to capture them. Listen as they dive into to this unique opportunity found in streams throughout the Piedmont of North Carolina.

Corey and Ben head to the westernmost corner of North Carolina to explore the spring walleye spawning run on the Hiwassee River. Each year, walleye migrate from reservoirs into rivers and major tributaries to spawn, creating one of North Carolina's most unique seasonal fishing opportunities. Learn how this fishery is supported through NCWRC stocking efforts and what makes western North Carolina a destination for walleye anglers.

Yellow Perch are an overlooked fish species found throughout North Carolina, with some of the best fishing opportunities in the mountains and coastal regions. Biologist Powell Wheeler joins the podcast to discuss this interesting fish and how to target them in the western part of the state. Corey and Ben also share their Lake Appalachia fishing adventure, with tips and techniques that can be applied to mountain reservoirs and waters across the state.

Ben and Corey are joined by Ken and Pete from Take a Warrior Fishing, Inc. They discuss the organization’s mission of creating connection, camaraderie, and healing for the veteran community through free fishing experiences across North Carolina and beyond. They also talk fishing techniques, favorite spring opportunities, and how “Fishing Heals” both on and off the water.

Corey and Ben sit down with Watha Fish Hatchery Superintendent Jeff Evans to discuss how the hatchery operates and supports angling opportunities for a variety of warmwater species across North Carolina. Tune in to hear about Striped Bass production and pick up tips for targeting these feisty fish in the late spring.

Join Ben and Corey as they welcome biologist Kyle Rachels to discuss American shad fishing opportunities on the Cape Fear River. Listen in as they explore what makes the Cape Fear unique to North Carolina and share some of the best techniques for targeting these springtime visitors.

From walleye to muskellunge and beyond, discover how this unique hatchery fuels fishing across the state. Corey and Ben sit down with Assistant Superintendent Matthew Bodenhamer to explore the powerhouse behind many of North Carolina’s most sought‑after sportfish. Get a behind‑the‑scenes look at Table Rock Fish Hatchery, the state’s only coolwater facility.

Listen as Ben and Corey sit down with Josh Ballard of Deep Creek Lures, a Carolina-based tackle company. They compare fish-catching lure designs and chat about tournament angling. Get tips on winter bass fishing and other species to target in a season that many anglers overlook, but offers less pressure.

Ben and Corey sit down with Chad Thomas of the North Carolina Marine and Estuary Foundation to discuss the importance of Striped Bass to coastal North Carolina. Listen in as they talk about Striped Bass management and the partnerships that make ongoing stocking efforts and research possible.