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Luke Clayton has been an outdoors writer for almost four decades and his byline appears in many different outdoor publications. Luke also pens a weekly outdoors column that runs in 41 Texas newspapers. For the past 20 years, Luke has hosted his radio show, CATFISH RADIO with Luke Clayton and friends which currently airs on 37 terrestrial radio stations and now as a weekly podcast right here on your favorite podcast app! Larry Weishuhn, aka “Mr. Whitetail” has shared a segment of the show with Luke since shortly after the show first aired. Topics are varied each week with four guests talking about everything from catching stripers at Lake Texoma on the Texas/Oklahoma border to hunting wild hogs to shooting and hunting with big-bore airguns. So each week, it’s a good bet Luke and his guest will hit on your favorite topic or discuss something you will be interested in. Luke frequently wraps up the show with “A visit with Luke” where he gives an account of a recent outdoor adventure. There’s always a bit of outdoor cooking talk in every show.
Luke has enjoyed camp cooking and especially using his Dutch Kettles outside over embers from a campfire for most of his adult life. For several years, Luke wrote an outdoor cooking column for a major Texas newspaper and he weaves outdoor recipes into many of his newspaper columns as well as here on his podcast. So, settle back, turn the volume up, and see where Luke and his guests take you this week. A new radio show airs each week and the current show will be hosted right here.
Be sure to check out CatfishRadio.org and our show As Sportsman's Life on Carbon TV
Episodes

Dec 6, 2025
Dec 6, 2025
53 min
CATFISH RADIO with Luke Clayton and Friends - December 6th Show Notes
Segment 1: Campfire Talk with Luke & Larry Weishuhn
Mr. Whitetail, Larry Weishuhn, joins Luke to discuss his deer hunt on Matthew Brown's land near the Red River, complimenting the landowner on his knowledge of the country.
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The Kill: Larry successfully killed a six-year-old buck that weighed 187 pounds on the hook.
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Hunting Time: The buck was taken at 12:03 PM in the middle of the day, confirming that mature bucks can move all day, especially during the rut, and emphasizing that hunters shouldn't be afraid to hunt during midday hours.
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Buck Behavior: The buck had a strong, musky odor associated with the rut. It was rattled in, initially turned to leave, and then stopped and came back toward Larry after he grunted at him.
🎯 Hunting Gear and Optics
Larry discusses the specialized gear he used for the hunt:
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Rifle: A 7mm PRC rifle.
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Barrel: The rifle was fitted with an Aviant heat-releasing barrel.
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Optics: The rifle was topped with a Stealth Vision scope, which is manufactured in Crockett, Texas.
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Stealth Vision scopes use 34-millimeter tubes and feature an optional lighted reticle.
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These scopes have a little green light that indicates when the scope is level, which is the ideal time to pull the trigger.
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Bullet: He used a Hornady ELD-X 175-grain bullet, which he placed through about a "two-inch window" to hit the deer.
Segment 2: Lake Texoma Striper Update (with Bill Carey)
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Prime Fishing Season: Bill Carey calls December "Remember December" and "the best of both worlds" for size and number of fish.
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Weather Conditions: He notes that December is the "peak of the fall" and that overall, the weather is getting warmer and milder than in previous years, making it a great time to fish, especially during Christmas break.
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Fishing Techniques & Gear:
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Under the Birds: Stripers are being caught "under the birds," which is impressive because they're catching 10-pound fish using this technique. The fish push the bait balls to the surface where birds spot them, and the anglers cast their jigs into the resulting feeding frenzy.
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Lures: The current top bait is jigs, using flukes that have a fork-tail or straight-tail (less vibration) on a three-quarter to one-ounce jig head.
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Retrieval: A simple medium retrieve works well, although the hosts admit to the old habit of shaking the jig. Strikes often occur on the pause.
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The Thumper: The use of an automated, motorized thumper (a rubber mallet in a box) is confirmed to work by sending sound waves that attract schooling stripers. This technique will be in its prime at the end of the month into January and February, alongside dead sticking.
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Striper Aggression: Stripers are very aggressive and curious, often resulting in multiple hookups or other stripers following the hooked fish right to the boat.
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Segment 3: Digital Night Vision (with Shane Kessler of ATN)
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Guest and Company: The segment features Shane Kessler, a pro-staffer with ATN Corporation, discussing night hunting optics.
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Digital Night Vision (ATN X-Site):
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Function: Digital scopes use a digital image that requires an external IR light to enhance visibility once the sun sets. It allows hunters to use one scope for both day and night hunting.
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Benefits: Features like video recording allow hunters to review shots, which helps locate game if no blood trail is found. The scope can stream live to an iPad or phone, enabling a coach to ensure a shooter's crosshairs are correctly placed.
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Limitations: Digital scopes are not good in heavy cover/brush because the IR light will refract off leaves and distort the image.
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Tips: Shane notes that the one-shot zero feature is very easy to use, and it is essential to properly align the IR beam to the scope's view.
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Segment 4: Thermal Scopes and Hunting Recap
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Thermal Scopes (ATN Thor LT):
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Function: Thermal scopes detect an animal's heat signature, allowing the user to "look through" brush and heavy cover, as the heat signature is unaffected by foliage.
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Affordability: Thermal scopes are now affordable (e.g., the Thor LTV at roughly $1,600) and are no longer out of the average person's price range.
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Models: The 320 resolution is sufficient for most hog hunters shooting out to 125 yards. High-end models (Thor 5) are available with built-in laser rangefinders and ballistic calculators for technical shooters.
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Visuals: Animals like turkeys appear "weird" or "prehistoric" through the thermal lens.
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Drawbacks: The main issue is judging distance without a laser rangefinder.
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The show concludes by reinforcing that it is still a great time for deer hunting and encourages listeners to visit the show's weekly TV program, "A Sportsman's Life," on YouTube or Carbon TV.

Nov 29, 2025
Nov 29, 2025
47 min
🎣 Catfish Radio – November 29th Episode Show Notes
This week on Catfish Radio, Luke Clayton and Friends bring you another fun, information-packed lineup from the great outdoors. From campfire wisdom to expert catfishing tactics, this episode delivers a full helping of stories, tips, and down-home conversation.
🔥 Segment 1 – Campfire Talk with Luke Clayton
Luke kicks off the show with classic campfire conversation — stories from the woods, recent outings, and the rhythms of late-fall hunting season. He shares reflections from time spent outdoors and updates listeners on what’s happening across Texas’ lakes and ranch country. A warm, easygoing opener that feels like sitting around a real fire with old friends.
🦌 Segment 2 – "Mr. Whitetail" Returns for More Deer Hunting Talk
“Mr. Whitetail” himself, Larry Weishuhn, joins Luke once again for a lively discussion. Larry shares insights from his recent travels, hunting adventures, and observations from the field. The two longtime friends trade stories, expert tips, and plenty of laughs — the kind of segment that reminds listeners why these two are legends in the outdoor world.
🐟 Segment 3 – Lake Tawakoni Guide David Hanson on Winter Catfishing
Professional Tawakoni guide David Hanson stops by to talk all things catfishing as temperatures drop. David breaks down:
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Where big blue cats are staging now
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Best baits and presentations for late November
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Why cold-weather conditions can produce trophy-class fish
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What clients can expect on a guided trip this time of year
A must-listen for anyone wanting to put more catfish in the boat this winter.
🍲 Segment 4 – Luke’s Camp Recipe of the Week
Luke closes the episode by sharing a hearty camp recipe perfect for chilly nights outdoors. With simple ingredients and Luke’s signature practical style, this dish is easy to prepare whether you're on the campfire or in your home kitchen. A fitting finale to a show dedicated to good living in the outdoors.

Nov 22, 2025
Nov 22, 2025
48 min
🎣 Catfish Radio with Luke Clayton & Friends
Full Episode – 4-Segment Combined Podcast
🟫 Segment 1: Campfire Talk with Luke Clayton
Luke kicks things off around the campfire with his signature storytelling and easygoing humor. In this opening segment, he shares updates from the outdoors, seasonal observations, and a few personal tales that set the tone for the show. Whether you're a seasoned woodsman or just love good conversation, the campfire chat brings listeners right into Luke’s world of friendship, outdoorsmanship, and down-home wisdom.
🎣 Segment 2: Bill Carey – Texoma Striper Report
Captain Bill Carey joins Luke with a fresh, detailed report straight from Lake Texoma — the Striper Capital of the World. Bill covers:
Current striper patterns
Best depths and presentations
Bait selection for this part of the season
Weather and water conditions
What anglers can expect in the coming weeks
This segment is packed with practical fishing tips and local knowledge for anyone planning a trip to Texoma.
🦌 Segment 3: Jeff Rice – Late Season Deer Strategies
Outdoor writer and hunter Jeff Rice checks in with Luke to talk late-season deer hunting. Topics include:
How deer behavior shifts as the season winds down
Food sources and movement patterns to key in on
Stand strategy during post-rut
Gear and tactics Jeff is relying on this time of year
Insights from recent hunts on his home property
A must-listen for hunters trying to punch a last-minute tag.
🍳 Segment 4: Luke’s Outdoor Cooking Tips
Luke wraps the show with one of his listener-favorite features—his outdoor cooking insights. In this week’s tip, he shares simple, field-tested methods for preparing wild game and campfire meals, along with a few tricks to elevate flavor even when cooking with basic gear. Expect a blend of old-school recipes, cowboy-style technique, and Luke’s trademark humor.

Nov 15, 2025
Nov 15, 2025
51 min
CATFISH RADIO WITH LUKE CLAYTON AND FRIENDS: November 15th Show Summary
Segment 1: Larry Weishuhn – Hunting History and The Old Oak Tree
Luke and regular co-host Larry Weishuhn discuss the history of hunting seasons in Texas, noting that November 16th was traditionally the original opening day for the regular whitetail deer rifle season. They reflect on the old process of obtaining hunting permits from the courthouse. Luke shares a feature he wrote about a massive, ancient oak tree on a friend's property and reflects mystically on the centuries of history the tree has witnessed, potentially including Civil War soldiers and Native Americans.
Segment 2: Omar Carter – Fall Fishing and Nilgai
Guest Omar Carter of Luck O’ the Irish Guide Service talks about the excellent fall white bass (sand bass) and hybrid striper fishing on Lake Tawakoni. He shares successful trolling techniques using a Hellbender plug paired with a small pet spoon, noting that fish are actively feeding hard to prepare for winter, requiring a fast trolling speed (around 2.9 to 3.4 mph). Omar also shares the story of his wife's successful free-range Nilgai bull hunt in South Texas and how much they enjoy the quality of the Nilgai meat.
Segment 3: Joe Parker – Taxidermy and Hunting Logistics
Joe Parker of All American Taxidermy and Next Trip Whitetails provides essential tips for hunters on how to properly handle a deer killed during warm weather to ensure the hide is preserved for mounting. He stresses that the worst enemy of a mountable hide is heat and recommends skinning the deer immediately and packing the hide on ice in a plastic tote. The discussion also covers different types of mounts and hunting opportunities at his high-fence facility, Next Trip Whitetails, in Paris, Texas.
Segment 4: David Cotton – Colorado Elk Hunt
David Cotton joins Luke to share the exciting story of his 85-year-old father, Edgar Cotton, successfully harvesting a bull elk in Colorado during the second rifle season. The father-son duo credits their Stealth Vision binoculars and scope, which allowed them to quickly range and dial in the shot at 365 yards with extreme precision. They also discuss David’s unique trophy—a mule-foot hog—that Joe Parker is preparing for mounting.
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Nov 8, 2025
Nov 8, 2025
51 min
🎣 Catfish Radio with Luke Clayton and Friends
November 8, 2025
This week on Catfish Radio, Luke Clayton and his outdoor friends bring you another lineup of stories, laughs, and expert tips from the woods and waters of Texas and beyond!
Segment 1 – Campfire Talk: Luke Clayton & Larry Weishuhn
Luke Clayton and “Mr. Whitetail” Larry Weishuhn gather around the campfire for a lively conversation about fall hunting adventures and the traditions that make this time of year special. From cool mornings in deer country to storytelling that warms the heart, the two share insight into outdoor life, wildlife behavior, and good old-fashioned fellowship among hunting buddies.
Segment 2 – Striper Express: Bill Carey on Fall Striper Action at Lake Texoma
Legendary Texoma guide Bill Carey joins the show to talk about the outstanding striper bite happening right now on Lake Texoma. Bill shares his latest fishing patterns, lure choices, and how cooler temperatures have fired up the big fish. Tune in to hear firsthand what makes November one of the best times of year to catch trophy stripers with Striper Express!
Segment 3 – Crappie Secrets with Guide Chris Webb
Professional fishing guide Chris Webb checks in to talk all things fall crappie fishing — from water temperatures and depth patterns to jig color and presentation tips. Luke and Chris discuss how crappie are stacking up this season and the simple strategies that can help any angler find success on their home lake.
Segment 4 – Luke Arrows a Fall Gobbler
In this exciting wrap-up segment, Luke shares a personal hunting story about arrowing a fall gobbler with his bow. Listeners get a front-row seat to his setup, calling techniques, and the thrill of the hunt. It’s a classic Luke Clayton storytelling moment — blending humor, skill, and a love for the outdoors.
🎧 Tune In & Stay Connected
Catch Catfish Radio with Luke Clayton and Friends weekly on your favorite podcast platform or local radio affiliate. For more outdoor content, visit CatfishRadio.org and follow Luke and Larry’s adventures across Texas’ great outdoors.

Nov 1, 2025

Oct 25, 2025
Oct 25, 2025
53 min
Catfish Radio – October 25, 2025
Hosted by Luke Clayton and Friends
This week’s show is packed with good conversation, great friends, and plenty of outdoor talk from the deer woods to the bear country of Oklahoma! Luke and the crew keep the campfire stories burning as they welcome familiar voices and share new adventures.
Segment 1 – Campfire Talk with Luke and Larry
Luke Clayton kicks off the show with his good friend and longtime hunting partner, Larry Weishuhn (“Mr. Whitetail”), as they settle in for some relaxed Campfire Talk. The two chat about the changing season, early deer movement, and the excitement building up for hunters across the region. They swap stories, trade a few laughs, and share insights on preparing for success in the field this fall.
Segment 2 – Deer Season Discussion Continues
The conversation continues as Luke and Larry dive deeper into deer talk — focusing on behavior patterns, scouting tips, and what they’re seeing in their own areas. They touch on weather effects, acorn crops, and how timing can make or break a hunt. As always, their years of experience shine through in this easygoing, informative chat that blends wisdom with humor.
Segment 3 – Paul Moore Talks Deer Attractants
Next up, Luke visits with Paul Moore, who discusses his line of deer attractant products and the science behind what draws big bucks in close. Paul talks about how scent, consistency, and placement can make a difference in your hunting success. This segment is full of practical tips for hunters getting ready to hit the woods — a great listen for anyone looking to up their game this season.
Segment 4 – David Cotton’s Oklahoma Bear Hunt
To wrap up the show, Luke welcomes David Cotton, fresh off an incredible Oklahoma bear hunt. David shares his experience from start to finish — the challenge, the preparation, and the thrill of being up close with one of the most powerful game animals in North America. His story captures the true spirit of adventure and reminds listeners why the great outdoors keeps calling us back.

Oct 18, 2025
Oct 18, 2025
57 min
Catfish Radio with Luke Clayton — Weekly Podcast Show Notes (Oct 18, 2025)
Gather ‘round for four fresh segments of fish, flame, and field wisdom from Luke and friends.
## Segment 1 — Campfire Talk
Luke opens the show with what’s biting and what’s moving this week, sharing quick-hit reports, weather notes, and timely tips to help you pick the right water, wind, and window for success.
## Segment 2 — Camp Recipes with Luke
From skillet to smoker, Luke walks through simple, no-fail camp recipes you can pull off with basic gear—seasoning shortcuts, cast-iron must-dos, and make-ahead ideas that turn a long day on the water into a great meal.
## Segment 3 — Fall Catfishing with Tony Pennebaker
Tony breaks down an autumn game plan for cats: productive depths and drifts, why bait choice changes with cooling water, anchor vs. slow-troll strategy, and how fronts shuffle fish on points, ledges, and channel edges.
## Segment 4 — Lake Fork Fall Bass with Guide Dennis Canada
Guide Dennis Canada delivers a Fork-focused fall bass rundown—where fish are staging, bait and jig picks, cadence tweaks for cooler temps, and when to swap from shad chasers to bottom crawlers as the sun and pressure shift.
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### Connect & Subscribe
Follow Catfish Radio with Luke Clayton on your favorite podcast app, leave a quick review, and share the show with your fishing buddies. Got a question or a story from the outdoors? Send it in—we might feature it on an upcoming episode!

Join Luke Clayton and Friends for an Unique and Engaging Outdoor Listening Experience
Outdoor media legend Luke Clayton has been hosting Catfish Radio with Luke Clayton for over a decade. Luke Clayton has been an outdoors writer for almost four decades and his byline appears in many different outdoor publications. Luke also pens a weekly outdoors column that runs in 41 Texas newspapers. For the past 15 years, Luke has hosted his radio show, CATFISH RADIO with Luke Clayton and friends which currently airs on 32 terrestrial radio stations. Larry Weishuhn, aka “Mr. Whitetail” has shared a segment of the show with Luke since shortly after the show first aired. Topics are varied each week with four guests talking about everything from catching stripers at Lake Texoma on the Texas/Oklahoma border to hunting wild hogs to shooting and hunting with big-bore airguns. So each week, it’s a good bet Luke and his guest will hit on your favorite topic or discuss something you will be interested in. Luke frequently wraps up the show with “A visit with Luke” where he gives an account of a recent outdoor adventure. There’s always a bit of outdoor cooking talk in every show. Luke has enjoyed camp cooking and especially using his Dutch Kettles outside over embers from a campfire for most of his adult life. For several years, Luke wrote an outdoor cooking column for a major Texas newspaper and he weaves outdoor recipes into many of his newspaper columns as well as here on his podcast. So, settle back, turn the volume up, and see where Luke and his guests take you this week. A new radio show airs each week and the current show will be hosted right here on this weekly podcast.
