Better Fishing with 2 Bald Biologists

Perching with Powell

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 05:11:00 -0400

Yellow Perch are an overlooked fish species found throughout North Carolina, with some of the best fishing opportunities in the mountains and coastal regions. Biologist Powell Wheeler joins the podcast to discuss this interesting fish and how to target them in the western part of the state. Corey and Ben also share their Lake Appalachia fishing adventure, with tips and techniques that can be applied to mountain reservoirs and waters across the state.

Take a Warrior Fishing, Inc.

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 12 May 2026 05:37:00 -0400

Ben and Corey are joined by Ken and Pete from Take a Warrior Fishing, Inc. They discuss the organization’s mission of creating connection, camaraderie, and healing for the veteran community through free fishing experiences across North Carolina and beyond. They also talk fishing techniques, favorite spring opportunities, and how “Fishing Heals” both on and off the water.

Watha State Fish Hatchery: The Striped Bass King

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 05:58:00 -0400

Corey and Ben sit down with Watha Fish Hatchery Superintendent Jeff Evans to discuss how the hatchery operates and supports angling opportunities for a variety of warmwater species across North Carolina. Tune in to hear about Striped Bass production and pick up tips for targeting these feisty fish in the late spring.

American Shad Fishing on the Cape Fear River

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 05:36:00 -0400

Join Ben and Corey as they welcome biologist Kyle Rachels to discuss American shad fishing opportunities on the Cape Fear River. Listen in as they explore what makes the Cape Fear unique to North Carolina and share some of the best techniques for targeting these springtime visitors.

Coolwater Powerhouse: Table Rock Fish Hatchery

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 05:36:00 -0500

From walleye to muskellunge and beyond, discover how this unique hatchery fuels fishing across the state. Corey and Ben sit down with Assistant Superintendent Matthew Bodenhamer to explore the powerhouse behind many of North Carolina’s most sought‑after sportfish. Get a behind‑the‑scenes look at Table Rock Fish Hatchery, the state’s only coolwater facility.

Wintertime Fishing with Deep Creek Lures

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 05:45:00 -0500

Listen as Ben and Corey sit down with Josh Ballard of Deep Creek Lures, a Carolina-based tackle company. They compare fish-catching lure designs and chat about tournament angling. Get tips on winter bass fishing and other species to target in a season that many anglers overlook, but offers less pressure.

Striped Bass Management and Partnerships

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 05:45:00 -0500

Ben and Corey sit down with Chad Thomas of the North Carolina Marine and Estuary Foundation to discuss the importance of Striped Bass to coastal North Carolina. Listen in as they talk about Striped Bass management and the partnerships that make ongoing stocking efforts and research possible.

McKinney Lake State Fish Hatchery: The Catfish King

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 05:47:00 -0500

In November's episode, The Two Bald Biologists explore the Community Fishing Program, featuring 40+ lakes stocked with channel catfish. Hatchery Superintendent Rick Bradford spotlights McKinney Lake and its State Fish Hatchery, a prime destination for catfish anglers.

All Things Largemouth Bass

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 05:45:00 -0400

In this episode, Ben and Corey sit down with fisheries biologist Casey Joubert to explore the world of largemouth bass in North Carolina. Learn why bass fishing is so popular in the state and the details behind the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission’s F1 Bass stocking project.

Whether you're an avid angler, a conservation enthusiast, or just curious about fisheries science, this episode is packed with expert insights into bass biology, habitat management, and the future of largemouth bass fishing in North Carolina.

Blue Light Special

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 05:30:00 -0400

Join Corey and Ben as they sit down with District II Captain Kyle vanAlthuis for an inside look at life in the Law Enforcement Division. Kyle shares how NC Wildlife Officers collaborate with biologists and the public. This episode highlights how enforcement supports both conservation efforts and the angling community. From boating tips to fishing strategies, this episode blends conservation, education, and a deep love for the outdoors.

Reintroducing a Rusty Angler to Fishing

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 05:30:00 -0400

Corey and Ben hit the water with NC Wildlife’s Ryan Kennemur, a self-proclaimed rusty angler on the hottest day of the year. Listen in as they dive into starter gear every new angler needs, luck vs. persistence while fishing, and more.

Sandhills Sunfish

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 05:30:00 -0400

Ben and Corey talk with Biologist Troy Thompson about catching sunfish in North Carolina’s Sandhills. Tune in to learn what makes the region unique and the challenges of managing quality sunfish fisheries.

Chasing North Carolina Walleye: Secrets from the Edge of Their Range

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 06:07:00 -0400

Ben and Corey head west to explore one of North Carolina’s best-kept fishing secrets, Walleye. Join them as they sit down with wildlife biologist Powell Wheeler and local fishing guide Don LaTulipe to dive into the spring spawning Walleye run and how to find them. This episode offers expert insights, regional knowledge, and fishing stories from the edge of the walleye’s southern range. Don’t miss this look at a fascinating and under-the-radar fishery.

Hunting for Trophy Striped Bass

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 13 May 2025 05:30:00 -0400

Join Ben and Corey as they discuss fishing Lake Hiwassee for trophy striped bass. They're accompanied by District 9 biologist Powell Wheeler and guide Don LaTulipe as they search for the new state record. Along the way, it’s clear that Ben and Corey still have what it takes to reel in striped bass!

Should I Keep This Fish?

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 05:30:00 -0400

Corey and Ben chat with coastal biologist Mason Collins about his experience as a new hire at the Wildlife Resources Commission. They dive into fish harvest and the ethical questions posed by anglers. If you've ever wondered how fish biologists view fish harvest, this is the podcast for you!

Tune in for valuable insights that may influence how you approach fish harvesting on your next fishing trip.

Springtime White Bass

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 05:30:00 -0400

Corey and Ben are joined by Kelsey Roberts, “The White Bass Biologist,” to dive into the exciting springtime spawning runs of white bass in North Carolina. Kelsey shares her knowledge on this beloved species, offering tips on the best locations and baits to use for a successful catch.

Hail to the Chief: A Deep Dive into Fisheries Rules

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Join Corey and Ben as they sit down with Christian Waters, Chief of Inland Fisheries, to explore the ins and outs of fisheries regulations. Why do these rules exist? Who do they impact? Are they even necessary? Tune in as they dive deep into the world of fisheries management.

Rising Waters: What Do Aquatic Animals Do When Natural Disasters Strike?

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Hurricane Helene devastated many North Carolina mountain communities last September. In this episode, Corey and Ben discuss how fish respond to natural disasters, how the Commission plans to rebuild destroyed mountain trout hatcheries, and how our staff are assessing the affected streams and habitats while planning for the future.

Talking Bass Fishing and Management with the Pros: Part 2

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this two-part podcast series, Corey and Ben sit down with professional bass anglers Matt Arey and Bryan Thrift, two of the most respected names in the bass fishing community. Based in North Carolina, their achievements have earned them national recognition. Tune in as Matt and Bryan share their expert insights on key topics such as bass fishing techniques, bass conservation efforts, stocking programs, and the NCWRC’s native aquatic plant initiative.

Talking Bass Fishing and Management with the Pros: Part 1

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

You Ain’t From Around Here!

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Our two bald biologists are joined by Assistant Fish Chief Rachael Hoch to discuss both the harmful effects and the fishing opportunities presented by aquatic nuisance species. Learn how these aquatic nuisance species threaten our native aquatic life and why it's crucial to educate one another about not introducing animals into environments where they don't belong. And remember—doing so could land you in a 'blue light special.'

Carping 101

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Ben and Corey are joined by District Fisheries Biologist Deon Kerr to learn about carping. While Ben and Corey are new to the sport, Deon's enthusiasm reveals just how much fun carping can be—tune in to learn essential skills you will need to wrestle these water donkeys!

The Public Water Mountain Trout Program

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 15:58:55 -0400

In this episode, Corey and Ben chat with Doug Besler, Mountain Region Supervisor, about trout fishing in North Carolina. Discover expert insights on trout management and the best fishing spots across the state.

Get to Know Your Better Fishing With Two Bald Biologists Podcast Hosts

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 06:08:00 -0400

Ever wonder how Ben & Corey became the Bald Biologists? We are dropping a bonus episode to talk about that, NC fishing, and the work of the NC Wildlife Resources Commission. Your hosts also share how you can contact your local fish biologist.

2024 Facebook Live Q & A Podcast

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 04:45:00 -0400

Listen into the second annual Facebook Live question and answer session. Ben and Corey talk about their recent fishing trips and respond to angler questions in real time on Facebook Live. The two bald biologists cover a variety of angler topics from all over North Carolina.

Westward Bound

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400

The 2 Bald Biologist head to Lake Apalachia, the westernmost point in North Carolina in search of trophy Brown Trout. Listen in as Corey and Ben discuss this hidden jewel of the Blue Ridge with District 9 Fisheries Biologist Amanda Bushon and longtime area angler David Woody.

Fishing the Pocosin Lakes

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Ben and Corey are joined by District 1 Fisheries Biologists Chris Smith and Deon Kerr as they try to tackle fishing clear shallow water for quality Largemouth Bass at Lake Phelps.

Municipal Lake Largemouth Bass: North Carolina’s Hidden Gems for Bass

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Wed, 01 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Corey and Ben talk bass fishing in North Carolina’s many municipal lakes with long time Piedmont biologist Lawrence Dorsey. Discover quality bass fishing in these unique waterbodies scattered throughout North Carolina.

Coastal Shad fishing with NC Wildlife Biologist David Belkoski

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Our two bald biologists, Ben and Corey, talk about spring shad fishing with NC Wildlife biologist David Belkoski. No shad topic is safe. We cover the biology of shad and fishing for them throughout the coast. Listen in to glean tips that will help you become a better shad angler and understand why shad migrate from the Bay of Fundy to our back yards.

Cold water Catfish: On the Cape Fear with Tyler Barnes

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Join Corey and Ben discussing winter catfishing on the Cape Fear River with prominent North Carolina catfish angler, Tyler Barnes. Our two bald biologists talk about catfish fishing tactics and conservation concerns.

Fishing Access and Boat Ramps

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 04:50:00 -0500

Corey and Ben talk with Nick Shaver, NC Wildlife’s Land and Water Access Division Coastal Ecoregion Supervisor, about boat ramps and public fishing areas across North Carolina. Our two bald biologists talk fishing, boating, and the significant work the Land and Water Access Division does for North Carolina anglers and boaters. Nick also shares a secret tip about his favorite lure, the spinner bait.

Fishing 101

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Ben and Corey talk about the basics of fishing tackle. How to get started with minimal expense. If you have never fished and are thinking about getting in to fishing for yourself or for your children, this is the podcast for you. Listen all the way to the end to find out how you can win a Better Fishing with Two Bald Biologist swag bag.

Kayak Fishing NC from mountains to coast

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 15:07:51 -0500

NC Wildlife’s Two Bald Biologists talk kayak fishing with the North Carolina Kayak Fishing Association’s president, Mark Patterson, an avid and diverse kayak angler. We cover fishing for everything from Redear Sunfish to Flathead Catfish. If you are interested in getting into kayak fishing or are currently floating down a creek, this is the podcast for you. The conversation even touches on a fish biologist’s stance on a non-fish creature, the elusive Sasquatch.

Overlooked bass fishing in coastal North Carolina with NCWRC biologist TD VanMiddlesworth

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Coastal North Carolina is often an overlooked destination for Largemouth Bass anglers. NCWRC Fisheries Biologist TD VanMiddlesworth joins Corey & Ben to talk about bass and bass fishing. We’ll discuss our coastal river bass surveys, hurricane fish kill recovery, and fishing the herring run. You may be surprised to learn just how good the fishing is at the coast.

NC Coastal Crappies and Fliers

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Kevin Dockendorf, Coastal Fisheries Research Coordinator, joins Ben and Corey to talk about the biology and how to fish for Coastal Crappies and the rare and elusive sunfish, the Flier. Tune in for great techniques and what we are learning about these fish.

Riverine Smallmouth Bass Fishing: How Ben lost his sole in the heart of the Blue Ridge

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 10:21:01 -0400

Join Ben and Corey as they discuss riverine smallmouth bass fishing and biology with District 8 Fisheries Biologist David Goodfred. The group discuss how these native fish can offer excitement on light tackle and how NC Wildlife manages these fisheries throughout western North Carolina.

Facebook Live Fishing Podcast Q & A with the Two Bald Biologists

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 08:23:57 -0400

In case you missed the live show, tune into our first Facebook Live fishing podcast where Corey and Ben answered NC anglers most pressing questions.

Fish Production: Backbone of the Inland Fisheries Division

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Ben and Corey are joined by David Deaton, Fish Production Supervisor for the Inland Fisheries Division, to discuss the importance of fish production for not only fish we like to catch and eat, but for animals that are important to the biodiversity of our great state.

Lake Wylie Catfish and the Curse of the Banana Moonpie

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 04:30:00 -0400

Corey and Ben go fishing and talk with Dieter Melhorn about techniques for fishing for reservoir catfish on Lake Wylie. The guys discuss why catfishing is increasing in popularity in North Carolina and why you should never eat anything banana while on a boat!

REDCREST Special Edition #2

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Thu, 11 May 2023 14:27:08 -0400

Corey and Ben are back at REDCREST 2023 talking with anglers Wesley Strader, Andy Montgomery, and the one and only Kevin Van Dam about the sport of bass fishing and the importance of fisheries conservation.

REDCREST Special Edition #1

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Thu, 11 May 2023 14:20:12 -0400

Ben and Corey are at REDCREST 2023 talking with Major League Fishing founder Gary Klein and anglers Britt Myers and Marty Robinson about the sport of bass fishing and the importance of fisheries conservation.

Jordan Lake: Largemouth Bass With the Bass Fishing Biologist

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Wed, 10 May 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Corey and Ben welcome Seth Mycko the District 5 Fisheries Biologist to discuss why there are big Largemouth Bass in Jordan Lake.

Roanoke River Striped Bass: River Rats and Hairy Worms

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 11:19:24 -0400

Ben and Corey welcome Bob Branch, a native of Weldon, North Carolina, who grew up fishing on the Roanoke River. They discuss the history and all things Striped Bass fishing along the Roanoke River.

River Herring Past, Present, and Future!

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Wed, 08 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Ben and Corey speak with Christopher Smith, District 1 Fisheries Biologist, to discuss the rise and all of what was once a great fishery. They talk about both the biological and cultural importance of river herring to Eastern North Carolina rivers. What was once abundant has disappeared: Listen to find out what happened, where we are now and where we hope to be in the future.

Muskellunge on the French Broad River: The Curse of the White Squirrel

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Wed, 08 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Join Corey and Ben as they discuss the highs and lows of fishing for Muskie on the French Broad River. They discuss Muskie biology and fishing techniques with Tim Boyer, president of the Western NC Muskie Club and Scott Loftis, NCWRC Warmwater Fisheries Research Coordinator for the Mountain Region.

Hybrid Striped Bass the Fish With Many Names

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Hybrid Striped Bass are found in many of North Carolina’s piedmont lakes where habitat is not suitable for Striped Bass. They offer excellent angling action and table fare. NCWRC’s Piedmont Region Fisheries Research Coordinator Kelsey Roberts joins us to talk about Hybrid Striped Bass and some of the current research that has been conducted on Lake Norman

Ponds and Pond Management with NC Wildlife Commissioner John Stone

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 05:00:00 -0500

Ben and Corey talk with NCWRC Commissioner John Stone about some of the unique things he is doing on his ponds and pond management in general. Tune in for tips and strategies on how to manage your favorite pond.

North Carolina’s mountain Brook Trout “The wildflower of the mountains.”

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Wed, 09 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0500

A North Carolina native, Brook Trout, “The wildflower of the mountains.” Corey and Ben talk with the N.C. Wildlife Commission’s trout biologist, Jake Rash, about conserving brook trout and their importance to North Carolina.

Talking Catfish With NC Record Holder Tyler Barnes

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Wed, 12 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Catfishing in North Carolina is growing rapidly. Join our two bald biologists, Corey and Ben, as they talk about balancing catfish angling opportunities and conservation concerns with flathead catfish record holder Tyler Barnes.

Trophy Catfish Tournaments and Tactics With Tyler Barnes

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 05:35:00 -0400

The Two Bald Biologists talk catfish fishing with North Carolina flathead catfish record holder Tyler Barnes. Tune in while we talk about fishing for trophy catfish, the catfish tournament scene, and all the gear necessary for success.

Crappie Fishing on Jordan Lake, North Carolina

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Wed, 10 Aug 2022 05:30:00 -0400

Hosts Corey and Ben talk crappie fishing with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission’s Executive Director, Cam Ingram. Listen in and get tips and pointers from the Director himself.

Bass Fishing 101 in North Carolina: Part 2

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Wed, 13 Jul 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Professional Bassmaster Elite Series angler Matt Arey from Shelby, North Carolina is back and joins hosts Corey and Ben to discuss all things Bass Fishing! Listen in as our two bald biologists and Matt discuss the invasive Alabama Bass and more issues facing bass fishing in NC.

Bass Fishing 101 in North Carolina

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Wed, 15 Jun 2022 09:52:29 -0400

Professional Bassmaster Elite Series angler Matt Arey from Shelby, North Carolina joins hosts Corey and Ben to discuss all things Bass Fishing! Listen in as our two bald biologists get Matt to share his professional insights on catching those elusive bass!

North Carolina Mountain Trout Fishing

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Mon, 09 May 2022 06:00:00 -0400

North Carolina’s Public Mountain Trout Waters. Ben and Corey talk with the N.C. Wildlife Commission’s coldwater trout biologist, Jake Rash, about trout fishing and conservation in the mountains of North Carolina.

Striped Bass Fishing on the Roanoke River in NC

Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 08:18:55 -0400

Ben and Corey talk striped bass fishing and biology on the Roanoke River, one of the most popular fisheries in North Carolina. Tune in to hear more about this incredible fish and fishery.