The White River in Arkansas has quietly become one of the premier caddis hatch destinations in the country. In this episode, fly fishing legend Ben Levin joins us for an in-depth, no-fluff masterclass on fishing the caddis hatch: how it works, why it’s exploding in popularity, and exactly how to fish it to catch both numbers and trophy browns.

Whether you’re new to fly fishing or a seasoned angler looking to master a specific hatch, this episode is a deep dive into the science, art, and strategy of fly fishing the spring caddis hatch on the White River. Ben’s experience and insight are unmatched, and his storytelling brings the Ozarks to life.

Book a trip with Ben: Fly South Adventures

Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars

Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration

Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology

[00:00] Why Ben keeps coming back to the Ozarks after fishing around the world

[07:00] How the White River has evolved into a world-class trout fishery

[10:00] Understanding the caddis hatch: history, timing, and impact of minimum flow

[14:00] Why bug numbers exploded post-2011 and how it affects trout behavior

[19:00] How the caddis hatch rivals those in Montana and Colorado

[21:00] The full caddis lifecycle and when trout are most likely to feed

[28:00] Dry fly vs. pupa patterns: what works and when

[34:00] How to identify, imitate, and fish each stage of the hatch

[39:00] Best months and conditions to fish the caddis hatch

[42:00] Top fly patterns: The Sunday Special and buggy guide variations

[45:00] Where to find the most productive hatch zones on the river

[47:00] Strategy for targeting big brown trout during the hatch

[52:00] The 31-inch brown trout story that landed Ben in a MeatEater article

In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.

Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews

Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton

Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast

PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: [email protected]

As spring hits full swing in the Ozarks, it's prime time to hit the water—and in this episode of The Ozark Podcast, guide Jon Conklin of FishOn Guide Service is back to help us do just that. Whether you’re targeting crappie, chasing trophy stripers, or just trying to become a better angler, Jon offers a masterclass in multi-species fishing on Beaver Lake and beyond. We also dive into conservation concerns and how increased pressure on Ozark lakes is affecting fish populations and habitat.

If you're looking to fish smarter—not harder—this episode is full of practical advice for anglers at every level. Learn how to adjust your tactics for seasonal patterns, increase your hookup rates with lighter tackle, and become a more conservation-minded outdoorsman in the Ozarks.

Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars

Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration

Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology

[00:00] Why crappie are fun, delicious, and an ideal target for spring anglers

[04:30] Multi-species fishing: Why it's essential for success on tough lakes like Beaver

[10:00] Crappie 101: Pre-spawn vs. spawn behavior, best setups, and jig colors

[15:45] How to find spawning crappie and read water clarity for success

[22:00] Bu jigs, tube jigs, and when to use natural vs. bright color baits

[27:00] Light-line striper fishing: Downsizing tackle to get more bites

[34:00] How to fight a big striper properly and land more fish

[40:30] Finding bait balls and how irregular shad patterns reveal feeding activity

[45:00] Summer trolling tips for catching suspended crappie

[47:15] Conservation concerns: Wake boats, shoreline erosion, and fishery decline

[54:00] Why angler education and ethical fishing are crucial for the Ozarks' future

In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.

Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews

Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton

Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast

PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: [email protected]

Walleye fishing in the Ozarks is often overlooked - but for those who know where to look and how to fish for them, the rewards are well worth the effort. In this episode of The Ozark Podcast, we sit down with walleye expert and fishing guide Jon Conklin of Fish On Guide Service to learn how to target walleye year-round in Beaver Lake and beyond.

If you want to improve your walleye fishing success, this episode is essential listening. Jon’s decades of experience will help you understand walleye movement, refine your technique, and select the right gear for every season. Whether you’re fishing from a boat, the bank, or a kayak, these insights will put more walleye in your cooler.

Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars

Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration

Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology

[00:00] Introduction to Jon Conklin & his passion for teaching fishing

[03:15] Why Beaver Lake is a tough but rewarding fishery

[07:00] Walleye in the Ozarks: Native species & stocking efforts

[10:00] Understanding walleye spawn behavior & where to find them

[15:30] Pre-spawn staging: What it means and how to fish it

[19:00] The #1 mistake anglers make when targeting walleye

[25:00] Post-spawn tactics: When and where to target feeding walleye

[32:00] Summer walleye techniques: How to adjust for warmer water

[38:00] Best baits & gear for walleye fishing in the Ozarks

[45:00] Expert advice for bank fishermen & kayak anglers

In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.

Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews

Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton

Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast

PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: [email protected]

What makes the Ozarks truly special? Is it the rolling hills, the winding rivers, or the deep-rooted traditions passed down for generations? In this episode of The Ozark Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Brooks Blevins—renowned Ozark historian—to announce an exciting new show, The Old Ozarks.

We talk with Dr. Blevins about his decades of research on Ozark history, the fascinating dialect of the region, and how understanding the past helps us connect to our present. Plus, we share what listeners can expect from his new podcast launching soon on The Ozark Podcast network, featuring untold stories, forgotten figures, and a deep dive into what makes the Ozarks distinct.

Whether you're a lifelong Ozarker, a history buff, or someone new to the region, this episode reveals why knowing where you come from adds meaning to everyday life. From preserving old stories to understanding why your grandpa said “poke” instead of “bag,” this episode is a perfect introduction to the rich storytelling and historical exploration coming soon with The Old Ozarks podcast.

Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars

Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration

Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology

Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Gear for the adventurous outdoorsman

[00:00] Dr. Brooks Blevins on dedicating his career to Ozark history

[04:00] Special announcement

[08:15] How Ozark language shapes identity

[13:40] The forgotten people and stories that never made it into books

[19:00] How history helps us connect to the land, culture, and ourselves

[29:45] Understanding uniqueness and commonality in the Ozarks

[34:30] How landscapes and old farming techniques tell our history

[47:00] The role of community in preserving and sharing history

[53:20] How listeners can contribute stories, feedback, and corrections

In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.

Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews

Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton

Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast

PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: [email protected]

If you love the intersection of wild food, land stewardship, and outdoor adventure, this episode is for you. Learn how to use bear fat in your cooking, forage native plants, and get the latest updates on community events that celebrate the Ozark lifestyle. Plus, get inspired to try your hand at creating your own Arkansas gumbo—tomatoes and all.

Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars

Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration

Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology

Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Gear for the adventurous outdoorsman

[00:00] Intro & Black Bear Bonanza recap

[03:15] Viral gumbo controversy: tomatoes, bear grease, and Cajun backlash

[12:00] Ancient bear bones and the science of radiocarbon dating

[19:30] How bear fat transforms biscuits, gravy, and gumbo

[25:40] Foraging sumac and bur oak acorns for next-level wild cooking

[33:50] Trypophobia and the surprising fear of lotus pods

[41:00] Hunting creek ducks during an Ozark freeze

[47:10] Spring in the Ozarks: turkey season, white bass run, and upcoming events

In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.

Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews

Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton

Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast

PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: [email protected]

For hunters and land managers, success isn’t just about luck—it’s about preparation and stewardship. In this episode of The Ozark Podcast, Daniel Mallette of GrowingDeer.TV returns to share expert insights on managing habitat, using prescribed fire, and balancing predator populations to boost deer and turkey numbers in the Ozarks.

If you’re a hunter, landowner, or conservationist passionate about improving wildlife habitats, this episode offers practical strategies for balancing predator control and habitat management. Learn how integrating fire, timber improvement, and trapping can lead to healthier ecosystems and better hunting outcomes.

Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars

Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration

Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology

Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Gear for the adventurous outdoorsman

[00:00] Trailer

[02:00] Why habitat management and predator control must work together

[15:50] The economic challenges of logging and how they impact habitat

[30:50] Habitat improvement vs. predator control: Which matters more?

In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.

Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews

Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton

Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast

PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: [email protected]

Fire is often feared, but when used correctly, it’s one of the most powerful tools for land and wildlife management. On this episode of The Ozark Podcast, we sit down with Daniel Mallette of Growing Deer TV to explore the benefits of prescribed fire, winter land management, and how to improve habitat for whitetails, turkeys, and other wildlife in the Ozarks.

If you’re a landowner, hunter, or conservationist looking to improve your property for wildlife, this episode provides invaluable insights on fire’s role in habitat management. Learn how to time your burns for optimal results, reduce invasive species, and create healthier ecosystems for game animals and pollinators alike.

Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars

Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration

Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology

Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Gear for the adventurous outdoorsman

[00:00] Introduction to the Ozark Podcast & guest Daniel Mallette

[04:20] Why fewer deer were seen this season: Acorn cycles & habitat influence

[11:15] The historical role of fire in the Ozarks & why suppression changed the landscape

[19:30] How prescribed fire benefits deer, turkey, and small game

[25:50] The biggest mistakes landowners make with fire & habitat restoration

[33:45] When and how to safely execute a prescribed burn

[41:10] Understanding seasonal fire: winter burns for cover, summer burns for food

[48:20] Why diverse habitat is key to wildlife sustainability

[55:00] Practical steps for landowners to start prescribed fire management

In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.

Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews

Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton

Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast

PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: [email protected]

In PART 2 of this episode, we continue our conversation with Tim Hammer of Homegrown Native Foods, exploring how responsible foraging can benefit both people and the environment. Tim shares his extensive knowledge on native edibles, sustainable harvesting, and the role foragers play in conservation efforts.

If you’re a hunter, angler, homesteader, or simply someone interested in sustainable food, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Learn how foraging complements conservation, how to ethically harvest native plants, and how you can take small steps toward incorporating wild foods into your diet.

Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars

Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration

Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology

Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Gear for the adventurous outdoorsman

[00:00] Introduction to the Ozark Podcast & guest Tim Hammer

[03:20] The connection between hunting, conservation, and foraging

[10:15] Why biodiversity is crucial and how modern agriculture is limiting our food diversity

[18:50] Foraging responsibly: The three-to-ten rule for sustainable harvesting

[26:30] The hidden potential of yaupon holly and spicebush for teas and spices

[35:40] Native vs. invasive species and their impact on ecosystems

[42:10] How beavers play a key role in habitat restoration

[50:25] Making flour from acorns and syrup from black walnuts

[58:00] Cultivating native plants at home for easy, sustainable food sources

[65:30] The idea of a community foraging club & sharing food knowledge

In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.

Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews

Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton

Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast

PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: [email protected]

In PART 1 of this episode, we sit down with Tim Hammer of Homegrown Native Foods to explore the abundance of wild, native ingredients thriving in the Ozarks. From acorn-breaded fried chicken to wild onions and sumac seasoning, Tim shares his expertise on identifying, harvesting, and cooking with nature’s overlooked ingredients.

If you’ve ever been curious about foraging but don’t know where to start, this episode is packed with practical advice, fascinating history, and mouthwatering inspiration. Learn how you can integrate foraged foods into everyday meals, gain a deeper appreciation for the land, and maybe even start a new hobby that brings you closer to nature.

Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars

Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration

Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology

Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Gear for the adventurous outdoorsman

[00:00] Introduction to the Ozark Podcast & guest Tim Hammer

[03:15] Tim’s journey into foraging & starting Homegrown Native Foods

[10:30] The untapped world of native fruits, nuts, and spices in the Ozarks

[17:45] Wild onions vs. invasive onions—what’s the difference?

[25:00] How suppression of fire has changed the Ozark ecosystem

[32:10] The surprising benefits of dandelions and native lettuce

[38:20] Seasonal eating: How nature provides exactly what your body needs

[45:55] From acorns to sumac—incorporating foraged foods into your kitchen

[52:40] The rise and fall of Tim’s native food restaurant & lessons learned

[60:15] Practical tips for getting started with foraging in your daily life

In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.

Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews

Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton

Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast

PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: [email protected]

We've just finished 'diving' into two cave episodes with Tom Aley and Dave Woods of Ozark Underground Laboratory and now we're back with an internal episode full of deer and duck hunting stories as well as some news from the region. Enjoy!

In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.

Sponsors (as of this episode release):

Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars

Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration

Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology

Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Gear for the adventurous outdoorsman

SUBSCRIBER ONLY PODCAST --> The Check Station

Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - AND our producer is Daniel Matthews

Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton

Follow us on Instagram: @theozarkpodcast

PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: [email protected]