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Your Vault(Introductory Price)
The New Mutton Crusher Rig(s)!
Advanced Wahoo Playbook 2026-2027
Capt. Ryan
After thousands of days on the water, you stop seeing isolated incidents and start seeing patterns. And captains and anglers may be thinking their own thoughts, but they're actually absorbing the state of what everyone is consuming on social media.
Have you ever considered protecting your attention and mental health with the same awareness as you would protect your best fishing spot?
I know I am not alone; what I see on the water isn't right.
Mental Health isn't just therapy:
It's how you respond when someone cuts you off, copies your work, steals your spots or challenges your decisions.
And I have worked on awareness and managing my state so I can stay focused on catching fish for my clients.
The trick is to start noticing the activation before it starts affecting your behavior.
Otherwise, it starts to define your identity.
Thank you for subscribing, listening and sharing this crucial conversation.
Good conservation isn't just about protecting fish. It's about protecting the future of the sport.
And let's not forget, "Anytime you're fishing it's all good!"
Capt. Ryan
www.goodkarmasportfishing.com
www.melindavanfleet.com
IG @goodkarmasportfishing_fl_keys
IG @themelindavanfleet
www.patreon.com/goodkarmasportfishing
All courses, communities, blogs and podcasts are on my website.
The community I mentioned for spot finding is called THE Angler's Edge.
Are you completely exhausted from reeling in "salad" instead of dolphin? The traditional clean-water offshore trolling playbook is officially dead. In this podcast I am shared numerous mahi mahi trolling tips for fishing heavy sargassum weed.
Due to the unrelenting easterly trade winds, the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt is pushing hyper-dense fields of scattered weeds through the Caribbean and the Loop Current conveyor belt.
NEW COURSE RELEASE Summer Bait 8 Week Intensive + Bonus QASign up for Capt. Ryan's highly anticipated new intensive bait and rigging tutorial:
Click here to purchase: Summer Bait 8 Week Intensive + Bonus QAIf you try to pull a standard trolling spread right now, you will spend 90% of your day clearing lines instead of catching dolphin, wahoo, and tuna. In this masterclass episode, we provide the ultimate mechanical survival guide to offshore weedless rigging. Learn how to stop fighting the grass and start manipulating it by weaponizing a sacrificial frontline system—a game-changing technique that holds floating macroalgae hostage up the line while your trailing bait stays 100% clean, lethal, and ready to get pulverized.
If you try to pull a standard trolling spread right now, you will spend 90% of your day clearing lines instead of catching dolphin, wahoo, and tuna. In this podcast episode, I provide the ultimate mechanical survival guide to offshore weedless rigging and more. Learn how to stop fighting the grass and start manipulating it by weaponizing a sacrificial frontline system—a game-changing technique that holds floating sargassum hostage up the line while your trailing bait stays 100% clean, lethal, and ready to get pulverized by big bull dolphin this summer.
Outrigger Geometry & High-Angle Weed Deflection
Use extreme towing elevation via angled kingfish riggers or T-top extensions to keep 90% of your running gear airborne and out of the surface film. Plus, breaking down the mandatory "5-Foot Rule" for strict leader separation.
The Titanium Leader Upgrade vs. Monofilament
Why single-strand titanium leader wire completely outperforms hard mono on heavy grass days. The physics of superelasticity, laser-straight memory under tension, and frictionless micro-diameters that give sargassum bladders zero surface area to hang up on.
Weaponizing the Sacrificial Ball-Bearing Snap Swivel
Turning your terminal connection point into an offensive mechanical grass trap. Why high-RPM, dual-rotation tournament ball-bearing snap swivels are non-negotiable for isolating line torque and catching sliding weeds 5 feet ahead of the lure cavity.
Best Lure Skirts for Grass: Mylar & Rubber vs. Nylon Hair Traps
Why traditional nylon hair skirts (like standard Sea Witches) act like Velcro to fine sargassum stems. We break down the slick-surface physics of flat Mylar strips and non-porous rubber octopus skirts that utilize high-frequency micro-vibrations at 6 knots to physically shake loose debris.
How to Rig a Sacrificial Trolling Daisy Chain
Building a hookless "offensive line" of inline teasers to plow a localized white-water clean pocket for your trailing lines to swim in. How fish psychology works when targeting the clean straggler at the back of the school.
Trolling Hook Geometry: Curved Circle Hooks vs. Open J-Hooks
Why straight, open-gap J-hooks act like miniature gaffs for grass. We discuss how curved circle hooks provide an inward-facing shield that can be tucked safely inside the rear cavity of a trolling lure.
Trolling with Finger Mullet vs. Ballyhoo & Dead Bait Prep
The host's personal signature play. Why swapping ballyhoo for finger mullet creates a seamless, hydrodynamic, zero-edge teardrop. Learn how a mullet's muscular back allows for a true, weedless, Texas-style skin-pinched rig that skips effortlessly over sargassum mats.
Master Bait Armor via Dead Bait Solutions
Step-by-step workflow using specialized bait preservatives. How a slow-thaw brine firms core muscle fibers and locks in deep iridescent flash, and why dusting baits with bait salt creates bulletproof leather armor that won't wash out at 7+ knots.
Active Trolling Tactics & The 3-Second Pit-Stop Clear
The massive competitive edge of physically holding the rods while trolling at 6–7 knots. Learn how to feel the exact moment a snap swivel catches grass via rod-tip vibration, and how to execute a lightning-fast transom clear without ever stopping the boat.
Spread Management: The "Problem Child" Rule
Knowing when to pull a fouled line tight into the clean prop wash, swap to a sub-surface naked artificial bullet, or clear the deck entirely to run a hyper-focused, weed-immune 3-rod spread.
Featured Gear & Rigging SuppliesTo run this exact offshore weedless rigging system effectively, you need premium, commercial-grade components designed to withstand heavy sargassum. Support our sponsors and get the exact gear we use to dominate the grass:
Line Sided Tackle
Line Sided Tackle builds premium, tournament-grade offshore gear designed specifically to conquer the harshest conditions. Upgrade your spread with their heavy-duty, hookless sargassum-deflecting daisy chains, ultra-slick terminal tackle, high-RPM, tournament-grade ball-bearing snap swivels required to build your sacrificial frontline traps.
Justin over at Line Sided Tackle specializes in building bulletproof, elite-tier custom rigs designed to match your specific fishing style. Contact Line Sided Tackle directly for expert rigging recommendations and specialized custom spread setups!
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Gores Offshore Lures
Ditch the hair lures and completely upgrade your spring trolling spread. Shop their custom, unweighted, flat-profile Mylar heads and cupped-face polymer Carolina chuggers designed to blast stray sargassum away from your hooks.
👉 Shop Grass-Shedding Trolling Lures at Gores Offshore Lures
Dead Bait Solutions
Turn soft, thawed bait into bulletproof leather armor. Use their signature Bait Brine to lock in vibrant iridescent blues and silvers, and use their specialized Bait Salt to toughen up finger mullet skin so it never blows out at high trolling speeds.
👉 Shop Premium Bait Preservatives at Dead Bait Solutions
Want to fast-track your fishing success and stop wasting time trying to figure it all out on your own? Connect directly with Capt. Ryan Van Fleet of Good Karma Sportfishing to tap into elite Florida Keys charters, specialized fishing clinics, and cutting-edge fishing courses:
Official Website & Charters: Explore booking details and catch reports directly at Good Karma Sportfishing.
Get Exclusive Blueprint Content: Join the inner circle on Patreon for specialized rigging tutorials, direct coaching, and tournament secrets at Good Karma Sportfishing on Patreon.
Follow on Instagram: Keep up with live on-the-water action, daily Keys reports, and quick rigging tips by following @goodkarmasportfishing_fl_keys on IG.
I first started watching The Spanish Fly with Jose Wejebe when I was in college.
Watching his show was a bright spot in my life especially if I couldn't go fishing. When my wife, Melinda, and I moved to The Florida Keys, we had the honor of meeting him at an event in Key West...
So, being able to record this podcast with his daughter Krissy Wejebe...
Well, it was special and very appreciated
Thanks for watching and enjoy the episode!
Please check out the information below.
About Krissy Wejebe and The Jose Wejebe Spanish Fly Memorial Foundation:
https://www.josewejebefoundation.org/
https://www.instagram.com/josewejebefound/
https://www.keywestsharktournament.com
https://www.spanishflytv.com
YouTube- Spanish Fly TV
On April 6, 2012, the fishing community lost a great angler, icon, and friend, Jose Wejebe, host of the immensely popular saltwater fishing television show, Spanish Fly. Through his show and his adventures, Jose shared his passion for fishing and a lifestyle that touched and inspired anglers around the world.
At the same time, Jose encouraged conservation, leading his viewers by example to take better care of the environment they so enjoy. Jose Wejebe never forgot his humble beginnings or those others that helped him find success. Throughout his life and career, Jose unselfishly donated his time, money and equipment to support countless charities including the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, The Marc House, Wounded Warriors, Big Brothers and Big Sisters and many others. The charitable work seen on his television series, "Spanish Fly", documented only a small portion of his generosity.
Behind the scenes, he quietly assisted with many more charities throughout the world. He did so out of compassion and kindness, and was humbled by those who expressed their appreciation. In order to continue Jose's passion for the marine environment, and dedication to support those who face life-impacting challenges, The Jose Wejebe Memorial Foundation was founded in April 2012. The Foundation will honor Jose's legacy by continuing his charitable efforts. (This copy is from their website.)
Krissy Wejebe, grew up in The Florida Keys immersed in the world of sport fishing, conservation, and the natural beauty of the coastal environment. Her mother worked at The Dolphin Research Center and her dad was a fisherman.
After her dad passed in 2012, Krissy channeled her grief into action by establishing the The Jose Wejebe Spanish Fly Memorial Foundation and also manages The Spanish Fly brand, production and licensing.
Krissy is an avid outdoor enthusiast and spends time on the water with her two sons (AJ and Ryder) and boyfriend "Uncle Chuck." Her personal and professional lives are intertwined by a common thread- profound love of the ocean and a dedication to making a positive impact.
Connect with Capt. Ryan Van Fleet of Good Karma Sportfishing and Educational Programs:
https:www.goodkarmasportfishing.com
IG goodkarmasportfishing_fl_keys
www.Patreon.com/goodkarmasportfishing.com
With Wrestlemania season officially in full swing, it's time for the real "main event" on the reef: Mutton Mania. In this episode, Captain Ryan Van Fleet dives into the high-stakes science of targeting Mutton Snapper. I walk you through the new blog where I talk about the importance of the learning the science of fishing for mutton snappers. We break down the data pointing toward a massive 2026 "Super Spawn"—a rare biological phenomenon that mirrors the legendary, record-breaking runs of 2023 and 2024. If you want to stay ahead of the curve and understand why this season is shaping up to be historic, this is the episode for you.
Thanks for Listening,
Capt. Ryan
Join the Community & Level Up:The Good Karma Rigging Crew 2.0: Join via Patreon for exclusive rigging tips.
THE Angler's Edge: Deep-dive monthly insights via Patreon.
The Good Karma Fishing Club Mastermind: Email to inquire about our elite inner circle.
Pro Tool: Get $20 off your SatFish subscription with affiliate code: GOODKARMA.
Check out all courses at goodkarmasportfishing.com, including the NEW! The 2026 Strategy for High Pressured Mutton Snappers
Direct Mutton Snapper Course Link: Good Karma Fishing Tackle
Fish with Capt. Ryan in the Upper Florida Keys (Key Largo, Tavernier, Islamorada).
Website: www.goodkarmasportfishing.com
Launch Points: Tavernier Creek Marina & Pilot House Marina
Instagram: @goodkarmasportfishing_fl_keys
Location Data: 25.0063° N, 80.5218° W | Tavernier, FL.
Feat. Phoenix Bowers
1 Hour and 17 Minutes. Zero knots. No apologies.
I sat down with Phoenix Bowers, a guy who's been riding with this podcast for seven years and actually knows what the hell he's doing on the water.
Phoenix doesn't just fish; he executes. His entire game is built on efficiency—stripping away the fluff to make every second on the water count. He's been listening to me tell it like it is since 2019.
We riffed on efficiency of fishing for wahoo and snapper.
You either get it, or you don't.
Follow him on IG @ringdownbermuda
Book a fishing charter with me- Key Largo, Tavernier, Islamorada: www.goodkarmasportfishing.com IG is goodkarmasportfishing_fl_keys My 3 Monthly
Communities: The Good Karma Rigging Crew 2.0 (via Patreon) THE Angler's Edge (via Patreon) The Good Karma Fishing Club Mastermind (email to inquire).
www.patreon.com/goodkarmasportfishing
All courses also on my website under Courses including the NEW! Next Level-Winter Time Planers/Downriggers and Live Bait Winter Wahoo
If you do not have SatFish yet, you are missing fish. My affiliate code is GOODKARMA to get $20.00 off www.satfish.com.
I use it in all my courses and THE Anglers Edge, so if you join those you will naturally learn more on how to best use it and be able to ask questions.
Book your private charter: https://goodkarmasportfishing.com
Get the Wahoo Course: https://goodkarmafishingtackle.com
Location Data: • Region: Upper Florida Keys (Key Largo / Tavernier) • Launch Point: Tavernier Creek Marina • Coords: 25.0063° N, 80.5218° W
Departing from: Tavernier Creek Marina & Pilot House Marina. Captain Ryan Van Fleet shares the science behind finding the perfect Wahoo and Snapper spots in Key Largo, FL.
If your fishing strategy involves refreshing Instagram to find your next spot, you've already lost.
A 15-degree temperature drop doesn't care about a "like" from last Tuesday, and that "hot report" you saw in a South Florida Facebook group is already froze out.
In this episode, I'm breaking down the SatFish Course curriculum to show you how to find your own path.
I summarize the core takeaways from Lessons 1 and 2, and give you a high-level preview of what's dropping in Lesson 3.
So, this next level intensive with Dr. R. Jeffrey Barr PhD Chief Scientist and Head of Product for SatFish which is part of BD Outdoors is next level.
If you are not using a product like SatFish, this is also a great way to get introduced and start to learn how it can help you find more spots and improve your catch rate.
They have a free trial code to use during the duration of the course. Dr. Jeff Barr shares more in this video on what you will learn. Click here for all the course details and get signed up! https://www.goodkarmafishingtackle.co...
My affiliate code for SatFish is GOODKARMA. www.satfish.com You can also check out my website for SatFish blogs and my YouTube channel and free Patreon for even more tutorials and examples. https://www.goodkarmasportfishing.com
I also share few other "nuggets" for finding fish after a "real" cold front.
How to Catch Jumbo Yelloweye SnapperBack by popular demand: I'm revisiting the "Sauce" for catching jumbo Yellow Eye Snappers in high-pressure zones.
I've been talking about this this method since this podcast launched years ago, and there's a reason sharpest listeners have been quiet about it—it works.
Learn more? Check out my new wahoo blog. https://goodkarmasportfishing.com/the... I have a lot of great content that can help you catch more fish consistently. / goodkarmasportfishing Book a fishing charter with me- Key Largo, Tavernier, Islamorada: www.goodkarmasportfishing.com IG is goodkarmasportfishing_fl_keys My Monthly Communities: The Good Karma Rigging Crew 2.0 (via Patreon) THE Angler's Edge (via Patreon) The Good Karma Fishing Club Mastermind (email to inquire) All courses also on my website under Courses including the NEW! Next Level-Winter Time Planers/Downriggers and Live Bait Winter Wahoo If you do not have SatFish yet, you are missing fish. My affiliate code is GOODKARMA to get $20.00 off www.satfish.com. I use it in all my courses and THE Anglers Edge, so if you join those you will naturally learn more on how to best use it and be able to ask questions. Unlike generic vlogs, Good Karma Sportfishing uses real-time SatFish data and proven science-based tactics. Book your private charter: https://goodkarmasportfishing.com Get the Wahoo Course: https://goodkarmafishingtackle.com Location Data: • Region: Upper Florida Keys (Key Largo / Tavernier) • Launch Point: Tavernier Creek Marina • Coords: 25.0063° N, 80.5218° W Departing from: Tavernier Creek Marina & Pilot House Marina. Captain Ryan Van Fleet shares the science behind finding the perfect Wahoo and Snapper spots in Key Largo, FL. 📍 Key Largo Fishing Spot Location: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?a... #KeyLargoFishingSpot #KeyLargoFishingCharter #GoodKarmaSportfishing #FloridaKeysFishing #TavernierFishing
Is it 1985 or 2026? Because the air in Chicago hasn't felt this electric since Coach Mike Ditka was roaming the sidelines in his famous sweater vest.
Did you see Walter Payton :) I did in all those players. The smiles gave it away.
In this episode, I am breaking down the legendary Bears vs. Packers rivalry and how the city of Chicago has finally found its soul again.
For years, critics looked down on Caleb Williams questioning their style, his swagger and attitude, and whether he had the right "mojo" to lead any NFL team. Caleb Williams was treated like an fishing expensive lure that looks good on the shelf but can't catch a thing in rough water.
But look at him now. We're diving into how the right mentorship has unlocked his potential. It's a reminder that in football—and in fishing—you don't have to change your nature to succeed; you just need the right environment and a good mentor that understands you.
When the city gets behind you and the right coaches believe in you, you stop playing "safe" and start playing like a legend. Same holds true in fishing.
We also explore why this rivalry brings out the absolute best in sports. While Chicago brings the urban grit, the Packers draw from the collective energy of the entire state of Wisconsin—a "small-town" force that fuels a global powerhouse. It's a clash of cultures and you gotta love that!
In this episode:
The Culture Shift: Why Chicago finally feels like a "Ditka-era" football town again.
Silencing the Doubters: How Caleb proved that with the right mentorship, you can be exactly who you are.
State vs. City: How the Packers' statewide energy forces the Bears to elevate their game.
The Fisherman's Perspective: Why the best Bears seasons—much like the best fishing trips—require patience, the right "fishing spot," and a whole lot of heart.
Anytime you're fishing it's all good! Has been my motto and tagline since day one.
In fishing, you also need to be trying new ideas on and off the water. My courses and communities also subscribe to that mindset.
So, I finally found a home for an idea that I had back in 2020 during Covid-19 when I launched The Good Karma Rigging Crew and the Good Karma Sportfishing App.
During the years of when the App was in good use, we learned it was a lot to add various features. At the same time, more ready-made apps hit the market. The nature of innovatio. So I side-lined the idea I had to create a online fishing community with a credit based system.
When we started Good Karma Sportfishing on Patreon in December of 2024. We had an open mind and took it one step at a time. Now, coming up close to a year, it's a great platform and it could house the idea.
Welcome into the Good Karma Sportfishing and Educational Programs World:
THE Leader's Edge.
It's a FREE part of being in our Patreon Group and is open to recreational anglers no matter where you fish- location or boat/bridge/kayak/river/lake.
Join the Patreon and get access to the Community where you can post and get credits.
https://www.patreon.com/goodkarmasportfishing
The details and rules are in the community as a post. So make sure and read those when you sign up.
Other important share in the podcast is about Jeff Perez and his win in Marco Island this past weekend in The Salt Strong Fishing Tournament. Congrats Jeff! He has a YouTube channel @Projectreel.
Thats all for this podcast!
Thanks for listening and joining the Patreon.
htpps://www.patreon.com/goodkarmasportfishing
There is a lot in my Patreon including:
-Free "Best Of Library"
-Courses including the NEW! Behind The Scenes which I mentioned.
-The Good Karma Rigging Crew 2.0
-THE Angler's Edge which is the vest online spot finding community. NO AI.
Email me to book a charter (check out my website first for rates and info) [email protected]
Anytime you're fishing it's all good!
Capt. Ryan
https://www.goodkarmasportfishing.com
https://www.goodkarmafishingtackle.com
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