Catfish Radio with Luke Clayton & Friends Podcast

Segment 1: Outdoor Rendezvous and Choctaw Hunting Lodge

• Host Luke Clayton and guest Larry Weishuhn discuss the annual Outdoor Rendezvous taking place on March 28th at the Top Rail Cowboy Church in Greenville, Texas.

• The event features live music, chuckwagons, booths, a Dallas Safari Club presentation, and a fish fry utilizing freshly caught blue catfish.

• They also discuss Larry's recent experiences at the Choctaw Hunting Lodge, including using Stealth Vision optics and the lodge's expansive 40,000-acre property.

Segment 2: Blast from the Past with Bill Dance

• This segment features a classic interview with legendary angler Bill Dance recorded at a boat ramp.

• Dance explains the science behind using slow-moving baits for big bass, emphasizing "selective feeding" where fish weigh the energy required to catch prey against its nutritional value.

• They also discuss the importance of establishing a proper rhythm and utilizing extended pauses when topwater fishing to trigger strikes from mature fish.

Segment 3: Catfishing on Lake Tawakoni with Tony Pennebaker

• Luke speaks with guide Tony Pennebaker about the transition from trophy blue catfish season to "eater" catfish season on Lake Tawakoni.

• Pennebaker notes that fish are currently being caught in six to nine feet of water, though they will soon move to shallower depths of two to three feet.

• He shares his current setup, which includes using six to seven rods, 6/0 or 7/0 hooks on Santee rigs, and fresh cut shad or perch for bait.

Segment 4: International Big Game Hunting with Matt Burgess

• International hunting guide Matt Burgess recounts his recent trips, including a combination hunt for Marco Polo sheep and Ibex at 15,000 feet on the Afghanistan-Tajikistan border.

• Burgess describes witnessing camel caravans on the historic Silk Road and discusses the use of Toyota Land Cruisers in Tajikistan versus horseback in Kazakhstan.

• He also previews an upcoming polar bear hunt where hunters will travel by dog sled and camp on the ice to pursue mature bears weighing up to 1,500 pounds.

Segment 1: Campfire Talk & Hunting in England

• Host Luke Clayton and guest Larry Weishuhn discuss Larry's recent hunting trip to Suffolk County, England.

• Larry details his experience hunting two unique, primitive deer species: the Chinese water deer and the Muntjac.

• He explains that the Chinese water deer lacks antlers entirely but features elongated upper canines, or fangs, that protrude heavily.

• The Muntjac is described as a small, prehistoric-looking invasive species that weighs about 30 pounds and possesses tall pedicles, short antlers, and fangs.

Segment 2: Historic English Estates & Deer with Fangs

• Larry shares details about their lodging at the Waveney House Hotel in Beccles, a historic structure built in 1540.

• They discuss the history of fallow deer in Europe, noting that the Romans historically introduced herds of them to new areas to provide a food source for their soldiers and settlers.

• The segment highlights the profound contrast between modern hunting and the deep history embedded in hunting on 500-year-old English estates that feature centuries-old castles.

Segment 3: Dallas Safari Club (DSC)

• Larry discusses his deep involvement with the Dallas Safari Club (DSC) and the DSC Foundation, detailing their dedication to wildlife conservation.

• He explains the rapid growth of the DSC chapter system, which currently includes around 30 chapters globally.

• Larry outlines the organization's fundraising model, explaining that 75% of funds raised stay with the local chapter, 20% goes to the DSC Foundation, and 5% supports the primary DSC organization.

Segment 4: Striper Fishing with Bill Carey

• Luke speaks with Bill Carey of Striper Express about the current fishing conditions on Lake Texoma.

• Bill highlights a recent trend of catching "Magnum" white bass (sand bass), with many of the fish weighing up to three pounds.

• He shares his highly successful technique of using three-inch sea shad lures on half-ounce jigs in shallow, five-foot water to "match the hatch" of the current baitfish.

Segment 1 – Campfire Talk

Luke Clayton opens the show with his familiar “Campfire Talk” with Mr. Whitetail, Larry Weishuhn, talking about hunting in England, the upcoming annual outdoor event in late March and more great outdoor fun talk about hunting and wildlife! 

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Segment 2 – Guide Chris Webb of Creek Crappie

In this segment, Luke visits with fishing guide Chris Webb of Creek Crappie, who specializes in crappie fishing in the creeks and tributaries feeding major reservoirs. Chris explains how rising spring temperatures push crappie into shallow creek systems where they stage before spawning. He shares techniques for locating active fish, including using electronics to identify structure and focusing on brush piles, timber, and creek bends. Chris also discusses productive bait presentations and how anglers can take advantage of these predictable seasonal movements to enjoy some excellent crappie fishing.

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Segment 3 – Chris Webb Continued

Luke continues the conversation with Chris Webb, diving deeper into crappie tactics and seasonal patterns. Chris talks about how water clarity, current flow, and baitfish activity influence where crappie hold in creek systems. He offers practical advice on selecting jigs, adjusting colors based on water conditions, and working cover methodically to find active fish. Chris also shares stories from guiding trips and explains how anglers of all experience levels can enjoy success during the spring crappie run by focusing on the right locations and maintaining a patient approach.

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Segment 4 – Luke’s Funny Campfire Stories

To wrap up the show, Luke shares a few humorous and memorable stories from his years in the outdoors. From unexpected mishaps on fishing trips to funny moments involving fellow anglers and guides, Luke reminds listeners that the outdoor lifestyle is about more than just catching fish—it’s about the experiences and memories made along the way. His lighthearted storytelling brings the show to a close with a reminder that sometimes the best part of a day on the water is simply the laughter shared with friends.

Catfish Radio – March 7th Episode Summary

Host: Luke Clayton Guests: Larry Weishuhn, Pastor Charlie Nassar, and Brayden Castillo

Episode Overview: Join Luke Clayton for another action-packed episode covering everything from international big game to local honey holes. Whether you are gearing up for the spring turkey season, looking for a family-friendly outdoor event, or wanting to fill your cooler with Sabine River white bass, this episode has you covered.

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Segment Breakdown & Key Takeaways

Segment 1: Campfire Talk – International Hunts & Upcoming Events

• Hunting in England: Larry Weishuhn joins Luke to share the unique experience of hunting Muntjac and Chinese Water Deer around historic English castles.

• Hog Hunting Locally: Luke recaps a recent successful hog hunt at the Friendswood Ranch in Red River County using a CVA SR-80 scout rifle.

• DSC Foundation Gala: Mark your calendars for the upcoming DSC Foundation Gala happening July 23-25 in Grapevine, Texas.

Segment 2: The 7th Annual Outdoor Rendezvous * Community Gathering: Pastor Charlie Nassar from the Top Rail Cowboy Church in Greenville, Texas, stops by to discuss the 7th Annual Outdoor Rendezvous happening on March 28th.

• Free Family Fun: This free event features vendor booths, Dutch oven cooking, hunting dogs, and live music from Marshall Allen Bailey and Cowgirl Janey.

Segment 3: Sabine River White Bass on Kayaks

• The Bite is On: Brayden Castillo of Stick and Scales Bowfishing details the incredible white bass action happening on the Sabine River north of Greenville.

• Tackle & Tactics: Brayden recommends launching a kayak and throwing a 1/8 oz Road Runner paired with a Bobby Garland Chartreuse paddle tail to land limits of 13-to-14-inch fish.

• Preparation: Luke and Brayden share practical advice on how to correctly trim the red meat off white bass fillets so they fry up tasting just as clean as crappie.

Segment 4: 45 Years of Spring Turkey Hunting

• Season Prep: With spring turkey season just around the corner, Luke reflects on 45 years of chasing gobblers.

• The Golden Rule: Luke shares his biggest piece of advice for new hunters: patience kills more turkeys than anything else.

• Classic Stories: Enjoy a nostalgic story about Luke’s time hunting and counting turkeys with legendary outdoor writer Bob Hood.

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Featured Sponsors: Support the brands that support the outdoors: Platinum Cadillac Chevrolet, Choctaw Hunting Lodge, Pyramid Air, Ultramatic Feeders, Smokin' Tex Electric Smokers, CVA, Stealth Vision, Hornady, and the Dash for Cash Pawn Shop.

Catfish Radio – February 28th Show Notes

Join Luke Clayton and friends for an action-packed episode featuring hunting adventures, spring fishing strategies, and a legendary musical guest.

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Segment 1: Campfire Talk & International Hunting

Luke is joined by his long-time friend Larry Weishuhn for their weekly "Campfire Talk". Larry shares highlights from the Dallas Safari Club Convention and discusses his upcoming trip to England on March 1st to hunt unique species like the Chinese Water Deer (known for its long fangs instead of antlers) and Muntjac.

• The Rendezvous: Luke and Larry invite everyone to the 7th Annual Outdoor Rendezvous in Greenville, TX, on March 28th. Expect live music, campfire cooking, and plenty of storytelling.

Segment 2: Spring Bass Patterns on Lake Fork

Luke checks in with veteran guide Dennis Canada to discuss transition patterns as March approaches.

• Water Temps & Wind: Dennis emphasizes that even a 4-5 degree difference in water temperature can drastically change fish activity. He advises targeting the northern, shallower ends of the lake which warm up faster in the afternoon sun.

• Lure Selection: Early March is prime time for jerkbaits, glide baits, and chatterbaits on secondary points as big bass begin to move shallow.

• Pro Tip: Don’t fear the wind! Wind stirs up plankton and pushes baitfish toward the banks, creating ideal feeding conditions for lunkers.

Segment 3: The Art of Jug Line Fishing

Luke and Jeff Rice recap a successful trip to Donnie Rice’s private lake, where they caught a haul of blue catfish using modern "jug lines".

• Modern Gear: Instead of old glass milk jugs, they use swimming pool noodles with PVC pipe cores.

• Strategy: They use cut bait and set lines to drift with the wind across the lake. Jeff notes the importance of checking lines frequently, as big catfish can often pull the noodles completely underwater.

• Where to Watch: You can see the footage of this trip on A Sportsman’s Life on YouTube or CarbonTV.com.

Segment 4: Bluegrass Legend Larry Sparks

In this special segment, Luke interviews the iconic Larry Sparks, a pioneer in Bluegrass music.

• Musical Journey: Larry reflects on his 63-year career, starting at age six when he earned five dollars for singing in church. He discusses his time playing lead guitar for the Stanley Brothers in the mid-60s before launching his own solo career.

• Philosophy: Larry credits his success to keeping his music natural and "becoming the song". He maintains a hands-on approach to his business, managing his own bookings and social media.

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Sponsors mentioned in this episode:

• Pyramid Air

• Smokin Tex Electric Smokers

• Stealth Vision Optics

• Ultramatic Feeders

• CVA Muzzleloaders

• Choctaw Hunting Lodge

Show Notes: Outdoors with Luke Clayton and Friends
In this episode, Luke is joined by legendary outdoorsman Larry Weishuhn, guide Chris Webb, and wildlife management expert Samuel Old. They cover everything from high-end hunting gear and predator behavior to the current crappie "run" in Texas creeks.

Segment 1: Conventions and Conservation
Luke catches up with Larry Weishuhn following his trip to the Dallas Safari Club (DSC) convention in Atlanta.

Event Highlights: Larry discusses the success of the DSC convention and invites listeners to the upcoming DSC Foundation Gala in Grapevine, Texas (July 23-25).

Industry Partners: Shoutouts to Hornady Ammunition, Stealth Vision hunting optics, and Taurus/Rossi firearms.

Deer Management: With the MLDP (Managed Lands Deer Permit) season ending in late February, Larry explains the importance of supplemental nutrition (protein and energy) and controlled burns to rejuvenate habitat for deer and other wildlife.

Segment 2 & 3: Predator Control and Wildlife Behavior
Samuel Old joins from Virginia to discuss the vital role of predator management in maintaining healthy turkey and deer populations.

Raccoon Pressures: Samuel highlights how hungry raccoons are major threats to turkey nests, especially as they emerge from the winter cold.

Coyote Tactics: Samuel and Luke share observations of coyotes working in teams to pick off feral piglets from sounders.

Bobcat Stealth: Samuel recounts trail cam footage of bobcats successfully hunting turkeys in the snow, noting they are the "magnum" of predators.

Craig’s Creek Shady Rest: Samuel mentions his Airbnb property in Virginia, which offers a serene getaway for those looking to enjoy the outdoors.

Segment 4: Hooked on Creek Crappie
Guide Chris Webb provides a red-hot fishing report for Cedar Creek Lake.

The Creek Run: Crappie are currently moving into shallow creeks to spawn. Many fish caught recently are already 90% spawned out.

Strategic Location: Look for clean, sandy bottoms in the big "S" turns of the creeks, specifically in pockets of water 3 to 4 feet deep.

Technique: Chris recommends a 3-inch Redneck Rubber jig (Bone Meal/White and Chartreuse) fished under a float. Cast it out, let it sit for 10-20 seconds, and use a "bump and move" retrieve.

Contact: Reach Chris Webb at 903-275-3253 or find Chris Webb’s Guide Service on Facebook.

Featured Sponsors
Stealth Vision: High-end hunting optics featuring 34mm tubes for superior light transmission.

Pyramid Air: Your one-stop shop for everything airgun related, plus archery and outdoor gear.

CVA: Makers of top-tier muzzleloaders and centerfire rifles.

Dash for Cash Pawn Shop: Located in Seagoville, TX, offering great prices on a variety of gear.

Cotton Gin Restaurant: A must-visit in Crandall, TX, for the best chicken fried steak in East Texas.

Show Highlights
1. DSC Convention and Squirrel Hunting

DSC Convention: Luke and Larry kicked off the show discussing the recent Dallas Safari Club (DSC) convention in Atlanta, noting it was a massive success that raised significant funds for wildlife conservation.

Cotton Ranch Hunt: The duo recounted a recent squirrel hunt at the Cotton Ranch in Kaufman County with Donnie Lynch and his prize-winning squirrel dog, "Stubby" (a mountain feist/rat terrier mix).

Weather Conditions: The hunt took place right after an ice storm; the weather was cold and windy, keeping the squirrels in their dens, so the hunting was tough.

Campfire Cooking: Larry shared his technique for grilling crispy chicken thighs over red-hot coals. Luke shared a humorous story about improvising a breading for fried chicken using crushed Triscuits, saltines, and Doritos because they had no flour at the camp.

2. The Truth About "Coydogs"

Guest: Steven Ziggler from The Hunting News.

The Myth: Steven discussed the controversial topic of "Coydogs" (coyote-dog hybrids). He explained that while they can breed in captivity, there is zero documented proof of F1 (first-generation) hybrids occurring in the wild, despite a standing $1,500 reward for such proof.

The Science: The lack of wild hybrids is likely due to breeding cycles; dogs breed twice a year, while coyotes only breed once, and their mating rituals differ significantly. Most animals identified as "coydogs" are usually just color phases of coyotes or dogs.

3. Hunting Consulting

Guest: Wade Derby of Crosshair Consulting.

Services: Wade explained his role as a consultant who vets outfitters personally to help clients book hunting trips worldwide, from Africa to Saskatchewan.

Advice: He advised hunters to plan ahead, noting that tags for species like antelope in Wyoming and New Mexico often require entering draws early in the year.

4. Trinity River Fishing Report

Guest: David Cox of Palmetto Guide Service.

White Bass Run: David reported excellent fishing on the Trinity River above Lake Livingston. Despite recent weather, the river is currently low, clear, and lacking strong current.

The Catch: They are catching "magnum" white bass (sand bass) in the 2lb range. David recommends trolling deep (25–30 feet) with larger baits like 3/4 oz Rat-L-Traps to target these bigger spawning fish.

5. Sponsors and Mentions

Stealth Vision: Dr. John McCall’s optics.

Ultramatic Feeders: Hunting blinds and feeders.

Smokin' Tex: Electric smokers.

Pyramid Air: Air guns and accessories.

Choctaw Hunting Lodge: Southeast Oklahoma hunting destination.
Here is the summary of each segment for the February 14, 2026, show notes:

Segment 1: Campfire Talk & Squirrel Hunting
DSC Convention: Luke Clayton and Larry Weishuhn discuss the recent Dallas Safari Club convention in Atlanta, noting the large crowds and successful fundraising for wildlife conservation.

Cotton Ranch Squirrel Hunt: The hosts recount a squirrel hunt at the Cotton Ranch in Kaufman County with Donnie Lynch and his champion dog, "Stubby." Luke notes that despite the dog's skill, the squirrels stayed denned up due to the freezing weather following a recent ice storm.

Campfire Cooking: Larry shares his technique for grilling crispy chicken thighs over hot coals. Luke shares a story about improvising a breading for fried chicken using crushed Triscuits, Saltines, and Doritos because they forgot the flour.

Segment 2: The Myth of the "Coydog"
Guest: Steven Ziggler from The Hunting News.

F1 Hybrids in the Wild: Steven discusses the lack of scientific evidence for first-generation (F1) coyote-dog hybrids in the wild. He mentions a standing $1,500 reward for genetic proof of a wild F1 hybrid that has never been claimed.

Breeding Cycles: The absence of wild hybrids is largely due to mismatched breeding cycles (dogs breed twice a year, coyotes once) and behavioral differences, as coyotes typically view dogs as threats or food rather than mates.

Misidentification: Steven explains that most animals identified as "coydogs" are actually color phases of coyotes or domestic dog mixes like German Shepherds or Huskies.

Segment 3: Hunting Consulting with Wade Derby
Guest: Wade Derby of Crosshair Consulting.

Consulting Services: Wade explains his role as a consultant who connects hunters with vetted outfitters worldwide. He emphasizes that he personally visits locations—from Africa to Saskatchewan—to ensure quality experiences.

Booking Advice: Wade advises hunters to plan trips well in advance, particularly for species like antelope in Wyoming and New Mexico, where tag draws occur early in the year. He notes that now is the time to finalize plans for fall hunts.

Segment 4: Trinity River White Bass Report
Guest: David Cox of Palmetto Guide Service.

River Conditions: David reports that the Trinity River above Lake Livingston is currently low, clear, and lacking strong current due to recent freezing weather and low rainfall.

Magnum Sand Bass: Despite the slow current, they are catching large "magnum" white bass (sand bass) in the 2-pound range. These fish are staging in deep holes.

Trolling Tactics: To target these deep fish, David recommends trolling slowly with heavy lures like 3/4 oz Rat-L-Traps in 25–30 feet of water.

 

Segment 1: Campfire Talk — A 20-Year Milestone
Luke is joined by legendary outdoorsman Larry Weishuhn ("Mr. Whitetail") to celebrate a significant anniversary.

Celebrating 20 Years: The duo reflects on their two decades of doing the radio show together.

DSC Convention Recap: Larry shares highlights from the Dallas Safari Club (DSC) Convention held in Atlanta.

The Energy of the Community: They discuss the "family reunion" atmosphere of the convention, where hunters and outfitters from around the world gathered to reconnect.

Segment 2: Hunting the Sonoran Desert with Larry Weishuhn
Larry returns to dive deeper into late-season hunting opportunities and international adventures.

Mule Deer in Mexico: The discussion shifts to hunting giant Mule Deer and Coues Deer in Sonora, Mexico.

The "Gentleman's Hunt": They describe the "high-racking" style of hunting—spotting game from high seats on trucks before proceeding with a stalk on foot.

Travel and Safety: Larry addresses common misconceptions about hunting in Mexico, emphasizing that rural hunting areas are professionally managed and safe for US travelers.

Segment 3: Trophy Blue Catfish with Tony Pennebaker
Professional guide Tony Pennebaker joins the show to share expert insights on the "Catfish Capital of Texas," Lake Tawakoni.

Prime Trophy Season: Tony notes that while big blue catfish can be caught year-round, the peak season for 60-plus pound "trophy" fish is currently underway (running October through March).

Techniques for Success:

Drifting with Shad: The most effective winter method involves making long drifts using freshly caught shad as bait.

Shallow Water Shifts: They discuss how eater-size blues are often found in shallower water as the weather begins to transition.

Tony P's Punch Bait: The conversation highlights Tony’s own effective punch bait, which is a staple for both guides and bank fishermen on Tawakoni.

Segment 4: The Art of Home Sausage Making
Luke wraps up the show by turning the focus to processing game meat and filling the freezer.

Bulk Sausage Basics: Luke explains that making high-quality sausage at home is "not rocket science" but requires the right fat-to-lean ratio (recommending an 80/20 mix).

Essential Gear: For those starting out, Luke suggests simple tools like a hand-crank grinder and a large mixing bowl.

Variety and Blends:

Beyond Breakfast Sausage: Luke shares how he creates specialized blends for chorizo, Italian sausage for spaghetti, and bratwurst.

Winter Comfort Food: The segment concludes with tips for using venison trimmings to ensure nothing goes to waste while keeping the family well-fed during the cold months.