Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Ugly Pike Podcast

This episode is a banger!  Newly signed UFC fighter Cody Chovancek comes onto the podcast with friend of the show Pete Bostelmann to talk about hunting muskies.  Cody is an amazing multi-species angler who is introduced as the Best Fisherman in MMA for all his bouts!  Pete needs no introduction and is widely known for producing some of the very best and most insightful Ugly Pike Podcast content in the show's history.  In this episode, the guys chat about:

• Cody's entry into the UFC and fishing life 
• How conditions affect spot selection/targeting 
• 2 rules for success on Georgian Bay
• Identifying seasonal change 
• How muskies hunt bait fish on windswept locations 

In this second part of our interview with muskie guide Cooper Edwards, we get into the red-hot issue of live scope usage before shifting focus to talk about how to hone the right skills for a successful trip on a great Ontario muskie lake and what new anglers should know and be aware of before heading out on the water.  Cooper closes the show with a hilarious and epic story of a big fish adventure!  Topics include:

• The question of Livescope
• Boat-side skills 
• How to educate novice anglers

Episode 245 is live!!  We usually don't like to approach guides during the season for the show, but we absolutely had to get JP Bushey back on the show.  JP is one of the best multispecies guides on Georgian Bay and a top muskie angler in the community.  In this first part, we get into the fabric of the Canadian Angler, a gritty talk about who we are and what makes us different.  JP then gives a long opinion on forward facing sonar and angling.  It is an excellent discussion, one of our very best! Topics include:

• Fishing and Canadian culture
• Being built different as anglers
• Forward facing sonar

In this episode, we record live on location on the St. Lawrence River system.  Frank is joined by his buddy and training partner Attila Ipacs, as well Alex Boutin aka Rex St. Pierre of Barbarian Braid/Taxeman Custom Lures.  The guys have a great discussion on how the end-of-season trip is going and what the state of the waterway is.  Points of discussion include:

•  The consistency/inconsistency of the fishery over the last few years
• Tips for fishing in variable late-season weather conditions 
• Lessons learned from losing fish while trolling and new tactics for minimizing this 
• The importance of acting as a team and knowing your role in the boat when that fish hits 
• How to select the best fishing line for late season 

Part 2 of our discussion with Dr. Steven Cooke concludes with topics that every muskie angler values.  We had a great discussion with Dr. Cooke and made sure that his vast knowledge was tapped and that we addressed vital points of interest to anglers such as:

- Critical factors affecting muskie habitat 

- Information Dr Cooke has discovered that could help muskie anglers discover patterns

- Can fish be educated (re: baits)?

- The importance of moon cycles, if at all

In this episode, we speak with  Professor of Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology at Carleton University, Dr. Steven Cooke.  In this episode, we discuss: 

- Dr. Cooke's team at the Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory

- The research papers on fish ecology that Dr. Cooke has published

- the intrinsic biological weapons of the apex predator, the muskie! 

- When do muskies eat?

- Muskie movement and migration 

From real brawls to muskie brawls, Chris and Frank begin the discussion with the recent Fury vs Ngannou  prize fight and then take a call from Dave Grey, organizer of the Musky Brawl that just took place on Lake St Clair.  Dave recaps how the event went, what transpired, and what is on tap for Musky Brawl 2024! 

Our fun talk with Chef Antonio Smash Meleca concludes with what else....a good muskie chat!  Highlights include: 

• Antonio kidnaps Kit Harington from Game of Thrones 
• Why Antonio struggles with trolling for muskies 
• The trials and tribulations of being the net man 
• Losing the fish of a lifetime 
• Antonio reveals who he would cook for if given the choice (anyone in the world)

Antonio "Smash" Meleca is our guest this week!  Antonio is an accomplished chef and entrepreneur and happens to be as obsessed with muskies as anyone else.   He is also co-host of the excellent Eating Wild Podcast on the Outdoor Journal Radio Podcast Network.  In this episode, we talk muskies, but first, we had to take advantage of Antonio's excellence in his field.  Part 1 includes:

• Why passion matters 
• Up your game:  Simple starting ingredients to use if you're new to cooking 
• Importance of resting meat
• How to make a great shore lunch

In this Full Moon Friday episode, Chris and Frank review the tactics of seasoned anglers and tournament fishermen and women in this community - information gained from the past discussion with Musky Brawl Creator, Dave Grey.  This episode incorporates different aspects of muskie fishing, both from the point of view of the angler, as well as that of a parent or mentor.  Highlights include: 

• A look at Fall fishing activities for the Ugly Pike crew, as well as possibly future guests
• A quick discussion on the upcoming UFC event that has been made better by 2 top fighters dropping out and being replaced last-minute
• Parents/mentors turning kids on to fishing: How to do it and how/when to incorporate that first muskie hunt!
• The process of growing as a muskie angler and getting better
• Points of value learned from the guys' recent discussion with Dave Grey, particularly modifying baits for deeper exposure

Part 2 of our awesome chat with Dave Grey!  This interview was so much fun for us and took such an interesting turn as we took a deeper look into what it is like to run a massive muskie fishing event.  In this conclusion we touch on:

• The ins and outs of fishing Lake St Clair
• Why the Musky Brawl event is so much fun, how it is administered, and what types of anglers participate
• Dave's interesting story of how he was catfished and how it lead to the ultimate happy ending! 

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 Beast
• effectively 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 the final chapter of the Live from Lac Seul series, Chris and Frank sit with their guides and discuss the wonder of Lac Seul, what it is like working in such a paradise guiding people on their trips of a lifetime! 

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 US
• How to approach tournament muskie fishing 
• How and when to target fish at different depths in the water column
• How to approach/ take advantage of the major and minor moon events
• Using a cold front to your advantage
• Casting and retrieving techniques in deep water
• Using 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 on

• How Pete breaks down and explores new water to find spots
• What to do when fish aren't moving or biting
• Stepping 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 predators
• Pete's recent trip to Lake of the Woods
• How 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 where
• The 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!

In this third part of the Live from Lac Seul series, Chris and Frank are joined by guide Zack Tucker who broke the days long slump and helped the guys get the job done!  After days of relentless grind, the guys were all elated to get one in the bag.  In this part they talk about how they got the job done

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 Selection
• Fishing efficiently
• How to fish in tough/variable weather conditions
• Casting 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 project
• How to determine fishing location to maximize success
• Best ways to plan for a big fishing trip
• Analyzing water quality and light penetration to determine bait depth
• How 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

Muskies Canada President Ryan Pickering drops by the studio to talk about the vendors, the speakers, and the events that will make the 2023 Muskie Odyssey in Oshawa, ON, the best Odyssey yet! 

Part 2 in our talk with Josh Borovsky is an extension of the road map put forth in part 1 on how to become a better muskie angler.  Points of discussion include: 

• Fishing techniques and how/when to change things up
• Pink Days:  Finding the right time to hit the water for optimal success
• Shade lines and other environmental conditions for identifying muskie spots
• Musky Insider discussion
• Josh reveals his new muskie lure concept coming to market

In this second part, the guys carry on with their chat with guide Joe Marsh to discuss the challenges they faced in the early days of their trip and how to best approach the pitfalls of navigating a challenging lake like Lac Seul

To our community, Josh needs no introduction.  He is a guide with 20+ years experience, focussing primarily on Lake Vermillion.  Josh is also an accomplished tournament angler with PMTT Top Gun and World Championship titles to his credit!  On this episode we discuss the following:  

• The challenges and allure of new water to experienced anglers
• The use of livescope technology
• Ethics and angling
• How fish react to transducers and surface noise
• Advanced figure 8 techniques

This is the Year in Review for 2022 where Chris and Frank discuss the highs and lows of the 2022 muskie fishing  season.  The guys also give a sneak peak into the guests and show changes coming soon! 

Part 2 in our discussion with Eagle Lake Guide Danny Herbeck produced some amazing insights.  Discussion highlights include: 

• Retargeting muskies after moving a fish
• Identifying sleeper spots where fish will be more active
• The different zones on Eagle Lake
• Experimenting with baits to find the right one

In this episode we sit down with one of the best guides on one of the best muskie lakes in North America - Danny Herbeck on the famed Eagle Lake!  Discussion points include: 

• Danny's participation at this years Musky Cup 
• How Eagle Lake changes from year to year and how to adapt in order to find success
• Finding big fish on Eagle Lake
• Boat side tactics for success and common mistakes

Part 2 in our discussion with the Co-Host of the Fishn' Canada TV Show and Outdoor Journal Radio, Angelo Viola. Some points of discussion include:  

• The perfect muskie moment
• Challenging times in Angelo's career
• Essential muskie baits every angler should have on board
• The psychology of picking baits
• The allure and team dynamic of trolling
• Angelo and Pete's historic double muskie catch on FnC

In this episode Chris and Frank interview a true Canadian Angling Legend, Angelo Viola, co-host of the Fishn' Canada TV show and Outdoor Journal Radio Podcast.  What ensued was a deep and substantive discussion about the cultural importance of the sport of fishing, and the need to preserve all of the wonderful things that come with it - especially in the modern digital age, and especially with regard to our youth.  Highlights of the discussion include:

• How Angelo became a fishing media professional
• The role of anglers and angling media in properly influencing Canadian youth
• The FNC genesis story, including the Izumi Brothers
• Why "Embrace the Grind" makes muskie anglers different

We continue part 2 of our discussion with Jessica Reid as she expands on her muskie research on the Jock River. In this episode we discuss:  

• Optimal time of day to target muskie based on environmental cycles
• What makes a muskie strike
• How encroachment is impacting muskie habitat

Jessica Reid is a Masters student at Carleton University working out of one of the most respected fisheries lab in the Country under the leadership guidance of Dr. Steven Cooke.  She explores the movements of freshwater fish in urban settings in order to understand the impact of human activities on the fisheries.  Jessica is focusing on muskie to understand their seasonal movements and habitat preferences on the Jock River.   Points of discussion include: 

• Physical characteristics, topography, and fish population of the Jock River
• Resident vs transitory fish
• How and why fish grow to different sizes on different waterways
• How tagging studies/equipment work and function

In this conclusion of our talk with Musky Cup organizer Byron Walker, the discussion focuses primarily on the highs and lows and methods of muskie hunting.  Muskie stories and tips are swapped and of course we have plenty of talk about the Musky Cup that happens annually on Lake of the Woods.

The illustrious Musky Cup happens Sept 23-24th this year and so we wanted to have organizer Byron Walker on the show to talk about the event.  In past years, the Musky Cup has attracted a veritable who's who of high profile muskie anglers.  In this episode we talk all things Musky Cup, including their choice to make Ugly Pike Pilsner the Official Beer of the Musky Cup!  This event takes place annually on the epic Lake of the Woods! 

Taking a trip of a lifetime to one of Canada's best angling lakes should be fun and easy, but not for muskie anglers.  In this first session of our series live from Moosehorn Lodge on the legendary Lac Seul, the guys go over the challenges that a cold front brought to their first days on the water.  Chris and Frank sit with guide Joe Marsh and review how the first days of the adventure went, and what will be done to change the approach and find success!  

Part 2 in this different type of episode.  Our tableside chat with Chelsea Lynn, Nik Birmingham, and Nikko Guido on the shores of the mighty Lake Nipissing continues.  More Ugly Pike Pilsners are opened, and more great tips on how to target and land giants on this great body of water are discussed! 

This episode is a little different.  We were grateful to be joined by resident anglers Chelsea Lynn, Nik Birmingham, and owner of Tama Kwa Resort and 5 Star Fishing, Nikko Guido.  We opened a few cans of Ugly Pike Pilsner and had a good ole fishin' chat session about hunting muskies on the Nip and what makes Lake Nipissing the famous, and sometimes infamous fishery that it is! 

In this episode we reunite with Gregg Thomas.  Gregg needs no introduction.  He is one of the pioneers of musky fishing in the US and is current co-owner of Musky Hunter Magazine.  Topics covered in the session include: 

• Musky Hunter Magazine going digital
• The new Musky Hunter Magazine app and it's cool features 
• How to break down zones and find active fish
• Boatside tactics on LOTW
• The ongoing debate over using sophisticated electronics