Eternal Fishing

In this episode of the Eternal Fishing Podcast, host Kyle speaks with Captain Chip Bragg for a wide-ranging conversation that goes far beyond the bite. From the practical to the personal, Chip breaks down what it really takes to catch stripers and giant blue catfish, sharing well-vetted insights on live bait selection, hook choice, seasonal patterns, and how weather and water temperature shape success on the water.

Kyle explores what it means to become more like Jesus by trying something new: highlighting the role of prayer, Scripture, humility, and breaking through cultural barriers in living out authentic faith.

Whether you’re chasing fish or pursuing spiritual maturity, this episode challenges you to adjust, learn, and grow—on the water and in your walk.

Takeaways

• Fishing techniques vary based on water temperature and season
• Different lakes have different fishing strategies
• Use of live bait and specific hooks for striper fishing
• Adaptation of fishing methods based on weather and water temperature Adapting fishing techniques to the specific season and conditions.
• The importance of trying new methods and approaches to improve results.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Charter Fishing with Chip Bragg
• 05:51 Lake Murray vs. Lake Russell
• 16:46 Fishing Techniques and Strategies for Different Seasons
• 21:55 Trolling and Baiting Methods
• 34:19 Memorable Fishing Experiences
• 57:46 Choosing Fishing Locations
• 01:14:01 Becoming More Like Jesus

You just watch that line and if you see it move right to left, front or back, almost nine times out of ten you've got a fish on — that's when Garrett sets the hook.

Host Kyle interviews new charter captain Garrett Brown on practical sheepshead tactics (fiddler crabs, small hooks, tight-to-structure bottom drops, gear and licensing) and reflects on 1 Kings 19’s gentle whisper as a reminder to listen for God's subtle voice.

Host Kyle interviews Clark Bartee of High Ground Outfitters, a nonprofit that offers free fly-fishing day trips and retreats for pastors and ministry leaders across the Appalachian region. They discuss the therapeutic power of fly fishing, the ministry’s origin story, and practical details about guided trips, gear, and fly patterns.

The episode highlights why pastors need rest and community, how tailwater rivers provide year-round trout fishing, and ways listeners can connect or support the ministry through bookings and donations.

Host Kyle interviews Captain Ricky Kellum, a Jacksonville, NC charter guide known as the “Speckled Specialist,” about targeting speckled sea trout, winning tournaments, and the techniques that work best—especially live shrimp, slip corks, topwater and the slick bait.

Ricky also shares his faith story, how fishing shaped his life, and how his relationship with Christ changed his priorities. Practical tips include where to fish by tide and current, rigging live shrimp, rod and leader choices, and when to use artificial baits.

Host Kyle interviews Larry Woodrow Ross, a survival specialist, fly-fishing guide, author, and photographer who shares decades of outdoor experience. Topics include fly casting on moving water, achieving a dead drift, fly tying, hunting, primitive craft and survival techniques, and the role of photography in storytelling.

This episode connects the fishing lessons to Romans 8:28, using the "mending the line" metaphor to explain how God works through life's currents to shape purpose and encourage listeners to trust in His guidance.

In this episode Kyle interviews E.J. Stern, an Orvis‑endorsed fly fishing guide, about catching wild brown trout on Virginia’s Smith River — covering techniques, gear, fly selections, trip logistics, and how he guides anglers of all skill levels.

The episode weaves in a biblical perspective, reflecting on nature as testimony to God’s handiwork and drawing life lessons from guiding, seasonality, and stewardship.

Contact and booking details for Raleigh Fly Fishing and Smith River Outfitters are provided.

Part two of a call with veteran freshwater striper angler David Ward covering how he scouts new lakes using depth readings and topo features, targets drop-offs and channels, and chooses trolling, spoons or umbrella rigs. He shares tackle choices, seasonal patterns, how wind and overcast conditions affect the bite, and personal stories including trophy catches.

The host connects the fishing lessons to a spiritual reflection on Exodus 16—trusting God’s guidance and provision in desert seasons—and encourages listeners to pray, read Scripture, and seek fellowship as they navigate both the water and life.

Pastor Kyle interviews South Carolina striper angler David Ward about his decades of experience fishing Lake Santee, Lake Moultrie and other lakes — covering trolling techniques, lure choices (chartreuse favorites), ideal depths and troll speeds, schooling topwater action, and seasonal regulations. Interwoven with the conversation, Kyle reflects on Jeremiah 29:13 and draws parallels between persistent fishing and seeking God with all your heart.

Host Kyle interviews twin brothers Chris and Nick Parrish about their journey from high school fishing team members to Virginia State BassMasters champions who qualified for the national tournament.

The brothers share tournament memories, their top five bass lures (wacky rig, topwater spook, spinnerbait, jig, chatterbait/drop shot), tips for new anglers, and how lessons like patience and mentorship shaped both their fishing and faith.

Pastor Kyle interviews Captain Peter from Morehead City, NC about taking soldiers offshore on a 76-foot Viking through Operation Resolute. They discuss techniques like teasers, dredges, electric reels, sonar, and the bait-and-switch method for marlin and other pelagic species.

The episode shares memorable fishing stories, practical offshore tips, and how these trips help chaplains and soldiers build relationships that draw out deeper purpose and healing.