In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, Matt Wyatt speaks with Commissioner Billy Mounger of the Mississippi Commission on Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. Mounger shares insights into the role of the commission, how it works with agencies and legislators, and the challenges of balancing conservation, public access, and economic benefits. From managing Mississippi’s parks and wildlife resources to improving hunting and fishing opportunities, this conversation explores how decisions are made to protect the state’s natural heritage for future generations.

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In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, host Matt Wyatt sits down with Richard Parker from Bass Tactics to discuss the rise of high school bass fishing in Mississippi and beyond. Richard shares how he started youth and high school fishing programs, the incredible scholarship opportunities available, and his personal journey as a lifelong angler and military veteran. From managing tournaments to teaching the next generation of anglers, Richard highlights the passion and planning behind Bass Tactics and the sport’s growing impact on families and communities.

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In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, host Matt Wyatt sits down with Reno Moore, a retired naval aviator and firearms instructor for the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. Reno shares his journey from learning handgun safety on a budget as a college student to designing comprehensive firearm training programs for Mississippians. The conversation covers everything from the basics of handgun safety and self-defense to the unique training opportunities provided at MDWFP’s shooting ranges.

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In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, host Matt Wyatt sits down with Scott Baker, a retired MDWFP biologist, to dive into the timeless tradition of squirrel hunting in Mississippi. Scott shares stories from his early hunting days, explains why squirrel hunting is a great gateway for young hunters, and discusses the importance of public lands for small game. The conversation also highlights the social aspect of squirrel hunting, the role of squirrel dogs, and the challenges of managing squirrel populations.

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In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, host Matt Wyatt sits down with Dr. Steve Demarais, a renowned wildlife biologist with over 40 years of experience in deer ecology and management. Recently retired from the MSU Deer Lab, Steve reflects on his journey from Massachusetts to Mississippi and the groundbreaking research he’s conducted over his career. From studies on deer breeding behavior to the influence of habitat on antler and body size, Steve shares insights that have shaped Mississippi’s deer management strategies.

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In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, Matt Wyatt talks with Pierce Young, a Private Lands Wildlife Biologist at MDWFP and the 2022 Wildlife Biologist of the Year. Pierce shares his journey from growing up in Columbus, Mississippi, to becoming a leader in deer management and private lands conservation. He discusses the importance of working with private landowners to manage Mississippi's wildlife, the challenges of habitat management, and the rewards of helping landowners achieve their goals. From deer hunting stories to success on hundreds of properties, Pierce offers unique insights into the work behind Mississippi’s thriving wildlife.

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In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, we're talking to Corey Wright, a dedicated wildlife educator at the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science. With over two decades of experience, Corey shares his path from an intern to becoming a vital figure in wildlife education. His stories from handling native wildlife to fostering a deeper understanding of Mississippi's rich biodiversity, illuminate the importance of wildlife education. Corey's passion for connecting people with nature, especially the younger generation, and his commitment to conservation through education shine through, offering listeners a glimpse into the heart of Mississippi's natural heritage.

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In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, host Matt Wyatt sits down with William McKinley and Kamen Campbell from MDWFP’s Deer Program to discuss chronic wasting disease (CWD). They explore the history, spread, and impact of this fatal disease on Mississippi’s deer populations, as well as the ongoing efforts to monitor and manage it. From the importance of hunter participation in sampling to the science behind prion diseases, this episode dives deep into the challenges and strategies of managing CWD in the state.

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In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, host Matt Wyatt sits down with veteran fisheries biologist Keith Meals, who has spent decades managing Mississippi’s renowned crappie fisheries. Keith shares his journey from North Carolina to Mississippi, his early days in fisheries management, and his role in making critical decisions that have shaped crappie fishing across the state’s top reservoirs. The conversation delves into the science and strategies behind size and bag limits, how new fishing technologies are affecting crappie populations, and the challenges of balancing recreational fishing with conservation.

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In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, host Matt Wyatt speaks with George Phillips, paleontology curator at the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science. George shares his expertise on Mississippi’s ancient history through fossils, from marine life to rare dinosaur discoveries. He explains what it means to be a curator, discusses significant fossil finds, and gives listeners a glimpse into the process of uncovering the state’s prehistoric secrets. Whether it’s a massive marine lizard or a single dinosaur tooth, George’s passion for paleontology is infectious.

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