UC Outdoors

On this episode of the UC Outdoors podcast, Barry White joins Brad Halfacre to highlight his fishing service and how it can help all sorts of people in the Upper Cumberland. He discusses what fisherman need to get into night fishing, how he finds new places to fish on the water, and some of his favorite memories when fishing.

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Mike Beaty of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency joins host Brad Halfacre to detail what trends are being seen when it comes to hunting. In addition to this, Beaty also touches on new baiting laws, the beginning of archery season rapidly approaching, and what people can expect moving forward from the TWRA.

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On this episode of the UC Outdoors podcast, Isaac Peavyhouse joins the show to shine a light on the world of professional fishing. He highlights his past and where his love for fishing came from, as well as how bass competitions operate in the local Upper Cumberland. To round up the show, Brad and Isaac discuss what the future of fishing will/could look like.

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On this episode of the UC Outdoors podcast, Brad Halfacre welcomes Tim Yates, Regional Director for the National Wild Turkey Federation, for a conversation about conservation, wildlife habitat, and the future of Tennessee's hunting heritage. Tim shares how a lifelong passion for the outdoors led him from volunteer to leadership within one of the nation's leading conservation organizations, while explaining how NWTF's work extends far beyond wild turkeys to benefit countless wildlife species and public lands. The discussion explores habitat restoration, youth hunting programs, conservation funding, partnerships with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, and the importance of introducing the next generation to the outdoors. Whether you're a hunter, conservationist, or simply enjoy Tennessee's natural beauty, this episode highlights how protecting wildlife habitat today helps preserve outdoor traditions for generations to come. The UC Now

Brad Halfacre sits down with U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captain Ryan Haykal, owner of Gone Fishin' Expeditions, to explore what it takes to turn a lifelong passion for fishing into a successful guide service. Ryan shares his journey to becoming a licensed captain, the inspiration behind launching his business, and why creating memorable experiences on the water means just as much as helping clients catch fish. The conversation highlights the growth of youth fishing, the value of teaching anglers of every skill level, the latest technology shaping the sport, and unforgettable stories from guiding trips across Tennessee's lakes. Whether you're an experienced angler or simply love the outdoors, this episode offers an inside look at the people, passion, and purpose behind a life spent on the water.

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Brad Halfacre talks with Kaela Walton-Sather of the Cumberland River Compact about the River Friendly Farms program and how conservation-minded farming practices help protect Tennessee's rivers, streams, and natural resources while supporting local agriculture. Kaela explains how the free statewide certification program works, the benefits it provides to farmers, and the practical steps producers can take to improve soil health, water quality, and long-term sustainability. She also discusses rotational grazing, educational opportunities, cost-share assistance, and why clean water is a shared responsibility for everyone who enjoys the outdoors. The conversation also explores Kaela's journey from Canada to Tennessee and the passion for conservation that led her to a career helping farmers and protecting the state's waterways.

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Brad Halfacre sits down with Tennessee Wildlife Federation CEO Mike Butler for an in-depth conversation about the future of conservation in Tennessee and the importance of protecting the state's outdoor heritage. Butler shares how a lifelong passion for hunting and wildlife led him from West Tennessee to a career in wildlife management and ultimately to leading one of the state's most influential conservation organizations. Together, they explore the Federation's history, its role in shaping Tennessee's conservation efforts, and the work being done today to restore habitat, improve outdoor access, and advocate for responsible stewardship. The conversation also examines the challenges of balancing rapid growth with the protection of clean water, healthy wildlife populations, and the natural resources that make Tennessee unique. It's an informative discussion for anyone who enjoys hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, or simply wants to help preserve Tennessee's great outdoors for generations to come.

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In this episode of Upper Cumberland Outdoors, host Brad Halfacre is joined by Will Preuett, state organizer for the Tennessee Fur Harvesters Association and an accomplished taxidermist, for an engaging conversation about the role trapping plays in wildlife conservation and Tennessee's outdoor heritage. Will shares how a visit to a taxidermy shop at just 11 years old sparked a lifelong passion that has grown into a career specializing in bird taxidermy and a commitment to mentoring the next generation of outdoorsmen. The discussion explores the history and mission of the Tennessee Fur Harvesters Association, the importance of responsible predator management, the connection between trapping and healthy wildlife populations, and how trapping remains an essential tool for conservation. Will also explains the fur auction process, upcoming educational events across the state, and opportunities for families and young people to become involved in the outdoors. It's an informative episode that highlights the value of preserving traditional outdoor skills while inspiring future generations to become responsible stewards of Tennessee's natural resources.

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In this episode of the UC Outdoors, host Brad Halfacre is joined by Daniel Lambert and Tyler Goyman, two passionate beaglers whose dedication recently earned them a major victory at the prestigious Kentucky Houndsmen Hunt. Daniel shares how a lifelong love of rabbit hunting, a move from Michigan to Tennessee, and years of breeding and training beagles led to success in the competitive field trial world, while Tyler explains what makes running hounds such a rewarding outdoor tradition. Together they discuss the National Kennel Club competition format, the importance of preserving rabbit hunting and beagling, and the countless hours required to develop championship-caliber dogs. Beyond the competition, the conversation highlights the powerful role the outdoors plays in strengthening families, building friendships, and creating opportunities for people of all abilities to participate. Filled with stories of faith, perseverance, sportsmanship, and a shared love for hunting with hounds, this episode celebrates the traditions and relationships that make Tennessee's outdoor community so special.

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On this episode of the UC Outdoors podcast, Brad Halfacre is joined by TWRA Officer Dillion Maynard. He shares what it's like protecting Tennessee's wildlife, waterways, and outdoor traditions while also serving Clay County and the Upper Cumberland. Maynard discusses the responsibilities of a wildlife officer, the importance of boating safety during the busy summer season, and common mistakes that can lead to dangerous situations on the water. The conversation also explores youth hunting opportunities, the growing popularity of outdoor recreation, his path from Tennessee Tech into conservation law enforcement, and the role TWRA officers play in preserving Tennessee's natural resources for future generations.

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