Ugly Pike Podcast

Dave Grey is a lifelong outdoorsman who was on the winning boat at the recent Unleash the Beast challenge on the French River/ Lake Nipissing.  Despite not being familiar with the water, Dave and his boat partner managed to bag the biggest fish and win the challenge.  We reached out to Dave to talk about how he formulated his winning strategy and to talk about his huge event on Lake St Clair in November - The legendary Musky Brawl!  In this first episode, we talk about:  how Dave and his outing partner approached fishing a relatively new lake (to them) and netted the biggest fish out of 60 seasoned anglers at Unleash the Beasteffectively working baits on the French River and Nipissing the business of making and selling baits adapting baits to make them heavier and targeting deeper fish 

In this second part with Dave Anderson, we take a deep look at what it takes to succeed both on and off the water.  Dave provided amazing insights and gave us one of the most informative and well-rounded discussions that we have had to date.  Topics include:How Dave relates his success in life/business to muskie fishing Comparing the great Ontario muskie fisheries Prop wash and trolling line lengths Dave's 3 crucial tips for success 

In this episode, we talk to mega angler Dave Anderson.  Dave has fished all over the best muskie waters in Canada and the US and has a number of muskie and multispecies tournament titles to his name.  He has also had segments published in In-Fisherman Magazine on the topic of toothy giants!  We had an epic discussion with Dave.  Highlights include:How tournaments and outings differ in both Canada and the USHow to approach tournament muskie fishing How and when to target fish at different depths in the water columnHow to approach/ take advantage of the major and minor moon eventsUsing a cold front to your advantageCasting and retrieving techniques in deep waterUsing the "splash down technique" to attract lazy fish

In this episode of Full Moon Friday the guys talk about how Chris found the strongest man in the world at his gym overseas.  The discussion then shifts to the upcoming Unleash the Beast Tournament on the French River.  Tournament organizer Todd Dowell from Tickle Bait calls into the show to talk about this year's UTB event and why it is going to be so amazing.   

Part 2 of our epic discussion with muskie angling legend Pete Maina picks up where part one left off.  A practical analysis full of tips for troubleshooting some of the most common roadblocks experienced by muskie anglers.  Pete weighs in onHow Pete breaks down and explores new water to find spotsWhat to do when fish aren't moving or bitingStepping into the mind of a muskie

Muskie fishing pioneer Pete Maina comes back onto the show to talk all things muskies with the guys.  Straight out of the birthplace of American muskie fishing, Hayward Wisconsin, Pete calls in to talk about what and how he is doing this season. It is always a real thrill when we get to chat with Pete and this discussion, much like the last episode with Pete was both fun and informative.  In this episode we discuss:The perception by some of Muskies as inconvenience/nuisance predatorsPete's recent trip to Lake of the WoodsHow fisheries across the US differ from one another in terms of both angling approach & culture

In this episode, the guys have a chat with Jamie Pistilli who is a muskie guide and avid predator hunter around the world!  The discussion begins with a talk about chasing fresh and saltwater predators around the world.  Jamie then goes on to expand on approaches to fishing for muskies in the Ottawa region where he works as a guide.  The guys also discuss Jamie's new podcast, The Tackle Box, which he co-hosts with Brad Sinopoli, a show that recently debuted on the Outdoor Journal Radio Podcast Network! 

In this episode of Full Moon Friday, Chris and Frank review the finer points of their amazing discussion with Pete Bostelmann.  This epic interview resulted in the most feedback from listeners in the show's history.  After that discussion, the guys get a call from Bryn Roach who calls in to talk about bait building and optimizing performance of lures in the water.  

In the conclusion of this incredible session with Pete Bostelmann, we dig deep into the nuances of muskie fishing.  Pete puts forth some real gems that break convention.  A talk that will surely produce more muskies for our listeners.  This interview was so well received by the community, we are very proud of this discussion.  Highlights include:- in-depth lunar analysis - weather changes and how they affect the bite - the 3 different types of lakes and how to target muskies in each - how to provoke a strike in slow conditions - finding that life/fishing balance 

In this episode, we talk with Pete Bostelmann, former President of Muskies Canada Inc and avid blade bait maker.  Pete brings years of experience and insights to the table and this discussion is loaded with amazing information.  In part 1 of this epic interview, we examine: Pete's preference for fishing in windy conditions Casting vs trolling - when and whereThe benefits of focusing on a single fishery Pete's role as a former president of MCI Pete's approach to blade bait building 

In this episode, Chris and Frank broadcast live from Tama Kwa Vacationland Resort on the famed Lake Nipissing.  The discussion revolves around the days spent on the lake with guide Nikko Guido and how the guys managed to find success on a notoriously inhospitable body of water.   

Introducing Full Moon Fridays, where Chris and Frank drill down on the best tips and techniques from recent interviews, take calls from listeners, and discuss what is happening in the muskie fishing world!

This week on Outdoor Journal Radio's Ugly Pike Podcast, we continue our conversation Davin Heinbuck is a Water Resources Coordinator for the Conservation Authority. Specializing in flood management, Davin also is in his 17th year as National Research Director for Muskies Canada Inc and is acting Chairman of MCI's Science Advisory Committee.  In this episode we discuss:  Bait SelectionFishing efficientlyHow to fish in tough/variable weather conditionsCasting techniques

Davin Heinbuck is a Water Resources Coordinator for the Conservation Authority. Specializing in flood management, Davin also is in his 17th year as National Research Director for Muskies Canada Inc and is acting Chairman of MCI's Science Advisory Committee.  In this episode we discuss:  Davin's involvement in MCI research projects, focusing on the Grand River projectHow to determine fishing location to maximize successBest ways to plan for a big fishing tripAnalyzing water quality and light penetration to determine bait depthHow to time your fishing trip ie: the 4 day rule

Chris and Frank make a huge announcement - a new media partnership with Outdoor Journal Radio Podcast Network which is led by 2 anglers who are Canadian institutions - Angelo Viola and Pete Bowman of the Fishn' Canada TV show!The guys talk about the details of this partnership and the shows that will be on the network alongside the Ugly Pike Podcast.  The discussion shifts focus onto the early Ontario muskie season opener.  Frank recalls the highs and lows of his trip to the Rideau River and then takes a look ahead to the next Ugly Pike adventure - Lake Nipissing in early July!

Part 2 in our talk with JP Bushey goes into amazing depth as we explore various areas where muskie anglers should focus on in order to increase catch percentage.  The amount of information and level of detail in this episode is incredible.  Topics include: Proper casting techniques Ideal bait properties Muskie reel talk Trolling strategies and the importance of knowing your lures Electronics and waypointing Identifying seasonal patterns 

JP Bushey is one of the most prolific multi species anglers in Ontario.  He is also a muskie addict who guides all over the Ontario, focusing on Georgian Bay but also angling all over Lake Nipissing, the French River, and beyond!  JP provided so much information on amazing tactics and approaches to muskie hunting in this session, it was truly amazing.  Points of discussion include:   Keys to guiding success and what makes a great guide How passion turns into success  Why fundamentals are an essential element to success on the water  Vital casting techniques that get your bait to hit the water the perfect way

Part 2 in our amazing talk with Matt O'Brien dives into great detail on how to target and boat big fish.  Some real out of the box approaches that have lifted Matt to the elite guide level.  Topics include: Matt's encoded waypoint system created to pinpoint the spot on the spot The use of livescope Targeting fish in open water Lure selection in open water How tactics change when going after big fish

Epic guide Matt O'Brien sits with Chris and Frank to talk about those amazing Canadian Shield waters.  Topics include:  Dissecting the lower/middle/upper French River as a muskie fishery "Leapfrog" casting technique used by Matt to cover more water and move more fish Spinnerbaits - which models to use and when

Fresh off the heels of an incredible Muskie Odyssey that saw 1000 people, a ton of vendors, and some talented speakers get together in Oshawa to enjoy the sport of muskie fishing and all that comes with it.  Ryan sits with us to talk about changes to the Muskies Canada Inc organization and how it will improve the membership experience as we look down the road.  Highlights include: The value of being an MCI chapter member How the chapter function is changing to be more accommodating to outlying locales  Using technology to give members even better service and utility Facilitating youth memberships into MCI