Episode 61: Darren Clarke - Claret Jug to Permit Freak

Before I ever met Darren Clarke, I loved him. The big man from Northern Ireland played golf with vibrant passion and his big smile showcased a wonderful demeanor, someone you’d want to share a pint with.

When he was stalking one of his great wins, I leaned in closer. When he won the British open, my heart jumped for joy. When he took down Tiger Woods in the World Match Play, it was incredible. Two of my favorites were in the ropes.

Soon after his wife, Heather, passed, he became a captains pick for the Ryder Cup. He decided his wife would want him to go, and six weeks later he won all three matches for the European team which would go onto win. Instantly he was an International hero. Tears flowed from millions of viewers, mine too.

Then I met him. We played together in a Champions Tour pro am. I couldn’t breath. Soon we were speaking about his insatiable passion for fishing; permit, tarpon... and then it was over, the golfing became secondary that day. He couldn’t retain himself. I realized that fishing was omnipresent in his mindset.

We stayed in contact and I finally summoned the courage to request an interview. Without pause he said he’d love too. At some point, Darren asked about Dustin Huff and his permit prowess. I told Darren all about my good friend and told him I’d ask Dustin to join us.

So there it is, and that’s how the stage was set. We spend the morning hanging out behind the mics and went to the course for afternoon golf.

We hope you enjoy this conversation with my two superstar friends...

I’ll cherish this conversation the rest of my life.