Most fisheries are managed with a complicated web of science, industry, and politics... but what would it take to manage them in a utopian world? In this episode, fisheries scientist John Carlucci joins for a discussion about how industry collaboration, innovative research, and a human touch can define our approach to sustainable fishing.

From growing up fishing in Connecticut to working at the Pelagic Fisheries Lab in Maine, John reveals the behind-the-scenes of tagging giant bluefin tuna, deciphering their age through otoliths, and the pivotal role industry partners play in collecting critical data. He illustrates how industry involvement isn’t just incidental; it’s the backbone of impactful science that informs management and rebuilds fish populations.

For such a small state, Connecticut is a powerhouse of outdoor recreation, fisheries, and conservation success stories that could serve as a model for the entire country. In this special episode, Tony is joined by Mason Trumbull, Deputy Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, and Jeff Shaw, Director of the Office of Outdoor Industry and Experiences. Together, they reveal how Connecticut’s innovative approach is turning ecological health into vibrant economic growth, demonstrating that sustainable fisheries and accessible outdoor spaces are the ultimate win-win.

Captain Cody Rubner provides an overview of two key topics in southeast fisheries.

Captain Bailey Short and Mario Campo host an open dialogue about red drum management in Louisiana.

Join Captain Ray Jarvis of Massachusetts and Captain Ben Whalley of Maine as they chat fishing, tactics and changing tides for one of the Atlantic Ocean's most iconic fisheries.

The North Carolina Marine Fisheries Commission is taking a clear, common-sense step forward at its May 2026 meeting. The proposed rule for Atlantic bonito (15A NCAC 03M .0524) is exactly the kind of proactive management we need more of on the Atlantic coast.

North Carolina currently has no rules in place for Atlantic bonito. No size limit. No bag limit. No stock assessment. Meanwhile, recreational landings have been climbing steadily since 2017 and now exceed the long-term average. North Carolina alone accounts for 22 percent of all coastwide recreational bonito harvest. That is a massive share of a coastal migratory resource, and the trend is unmistakable.

This episode is an important one, and not just because of the implications for red drum and menhaden management. This episode is the epitome of why we started the Guide Post years ago. The conservation community has been actively advocating for the reform of redfish and menhaden management in Louisiana. Advocates are rightfully riled up - and our team is far from shy when it comes to speaking the truth. We have done so in recent years on both fronts, especially in recent weeks regarding a menhaden bill package and a new proposal regarding bull red harvest at rodeos. Representative Joseph Orgeron reached out after our last episode and requested to join us for episode 202. His goal was to clear the air and foster a respectful conversation about recent happenings, his goals, our perspectives and differences in opinion. We believe that the goal was accomplished. As always, shoot us an email or message on social to let us know your thoughts - or if you have any lingering questions for Rep. Orgeron that may not have been answered here.

Everything isn't as it seems in the world of fisheries policy. What's happening right now in the Gulf is no exception.

We have somehow racked up 200 episodes of this dang thing. We can't believe it either. We decided to use this celebratory episode to goof off with the guides and advocates who make this episode possible. Enjoy a launch and get ready to hop back on the fisheries policy train for episode 201.

EP199