Catfish Radio with Luke Clayton & Friends Podcast

Catfish Radio Show Notes – June 20 Segment 1: High-Quality Optics & Upcoming Conservation Events Luke Clayton and Larry Weishuhn kick off the hour talking about the value of investing in high-quality glass for your rifles. Scope Investments: Larry emphasizes that spending a bit more on a premium scope—such as those produced by Stealth Vision—is a worthwhile investment for long-term accuracy and durability in the field. Sighting In & Practice: The guys discuss the benefits of custom turret systems and long-range shooting, sharing stories from dialing in their rifles at the range. Summer Conventions: Mark your calendars for upcoming events, including the Texas Wildlife Association convention and the DSC Summer Show happening July 23rd through the 26th at the Gaylord Texan. Segment 2: A Virginia Outdoor Getaway with Samuel Old Samuel Old joins the show to share details about his newly renovated outdoor retreat in Virginia. Craig Creek Shady Rest: Samuel details this beautiful, over-100-year-old property that was formerly a boys' camp, located right on the banks of Craig Creek. Activities: The property is a wildlife lover's paradise where guests can cast a line directly off the back deck, hike, and view abundant wildlife, including deer, bear, and turkeys. Booking: Listeners can find more information, see pictures of the remodel, and reach out to book a stay via the "Craig Creek Shady Rest" Facebook page. Segment 3: Summer Crappie Fishing Tactics with Chris Webb Guide Chris Webb stops by to talk about beating the heat and catching crappie on Cedar Creek Lake. Detecting the Bite: Chris explains that summer crappie often have a very soft bite, making it crucial to feel for the rod "loading up" rather than waiting for a hard, aggressive tug. Summer Patterns: The key to success is adjusting to the time of day; Chris recommends targeting brush piles and laydowns in 10 to 12 feet of water during the cooler mornings, then moving out to the 15 to 20-foot range as the sun gets high. Bait & Technique: Using live minnows with a slow, steady, and smooth presentation is the absolute best ticket for getting these lethargic summer fish to commit. Segment 4: Crossbow Hunting Prep with Larry Weishuhn Larry returns to close out the show, and the conversation shifts to the growing popularity and utility of crossbows. Ease of Use: Larry shares his experiences shooting a 10-Point crossbow, noting how modern features like the slide cocking mechanism make them highly accessible and fun for hunters of all ages. Sighting In: The guys discuss the process of dialing in a crossbow, with Larry explaining how he zeroes in dead-on at 20 yards before stepping back to practice his groups at 30 and 40 yards. Fall Prep: They wrap up the hour by looking ahead to upcoming fall hunts, including planned trips to Oklahoma and the Choctaw Nation where their crossbows will definitely be put to good use.

Show Highlights1. 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 HuntingDSC 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

Segment 1: Campfire Talk with Larry Weishuhn Luke is joined by his long-time hunting companion, Larry Weishuhn, for their weekly "Campfire Talk." Upcoming Events: Larry shares that he is heading to the Dallas Safari Club (DSC) Convention in Atlanta, Georgia (February 6–8). Winter Fishing Plans: The duo discusses the upcoming White Bass run in the Sabine River and the 7th Annual Outdoor Rendezvous in Greenville, TX. Cormorant "Splattin" for Catfish: Luke recounts a recent trip to Lake Ray Hubbard with guide Brandon Sargeant. They used a technique called "splatting" near cormorant roosts, where the natural chum from the birds attracts large blue catfish. Success on the Water: Luke successfully filleted 37 blue catfish, ranging from 2 to 10 pounds, resulting in five gallons of fresh fish. Segment 2: Winter Striper Fishing with Bill Carey Luke welcomes Bill Carey from Striper Express to discuss the peak of the big fish season on Lake Texoma. Prime Season: January and February are the best months for targeting trophy-sized Stripers before they begin grouping up to run upriver in March. Techniques & Lures: The Roadrunner Jig: A staple for 40 years, typically a 1/2 oz white head tipped with a 7-inch white curl-tail worm. Subtle Action: Carey emphasizes using curl-tails or flukes rather than high-vibration paddle-tails, as the fish's metabolism slows down in cold water. The "Time Release" Hookset: In winter, the bite is subtle—often just a one-inch twitch of the rod tip as the fish "sucks in" the bait. Nature’s Cues: While birds are great fish-finders, they can be "liars" in mid-January as they dip for bait pushed to the surface by cold water rather than active feeding frenzies. Segment 3: Ice Fishing and Pike Spearing with Jeff Rice Jeff Rice calls in to report on a brutal but successful trip to the frozen north. Extreme Conditions: Jeff faced temperatures of 12°F below zero with a wind chill reaching -45°F. Walleye Fishing: Fishing in an "ice shanty," the team used live sonar (LiveScope) to watch Walleyes react to tiny jigging spoons in about 7 feet of water. Spearing Northern Pike: Jeff checked a major item off his bucket list by spearing a 39-inch Northern Pike. The process involves waiting over a rectangular hole in the ice and using a decoy to lure the fish in. The heavy 7-barbed spear must be tethered to the hunter's arm and aimed precisely behind the gill plates. Segment 4: Luke’s Smoked Winter Chili Recipe Luke closes the show with his signature method for making winter chili, stressing that the secret is in the smoke. The Meat: You can use ground meat or cubed roasts (venison, pork, or wild hog). The Smoking Process: * Sizzle the meat on a propane burner until gray, then move it to an electric smoker (like a Smokin-Tex). Smoke the meat uncovered in a cast-iron Dutch oven for about an hour using hickory or pecan wood. Ingredients: Add tomatoes, finely chopped onions, jalapeños, and the Wicks Fowler seasoning kit (or a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic, and paprika). The Finish: Luke adds kidney beans and a touch of sugar, then lets the chili slow-cook at 225°F to allow the flavors to blend.

Cumulative Summary The January 17th edition of Catfish Radio offers a blend of local Texas flavor and international hunting adventure. The episode begins with the familiar camaraderie of Luke Clayton and Larry Weishuhn, grounding the show in the local hunting community's recent gathering at the Dallas Safari Club. This sets a tone of connection and shared passion for the outdoors. The core of the episode (Segments 2 and 3) transports the listener to the Sonoran Desert of Mexico. Guest Wade Derby provides an expert's perspective on destination hunting, breaking down the allure of giant Mule Deer and the elusive Coues Deer. Crucially, he dismantles common fears regarding travel and safety in Mexico, framing it as an accessible and professionally managed adventure for US hunters. The show concludes in Segment 4 with a return to "home base," as Luke provides actionable tips for local winter fishing and comfort food cooking. The production moves smoothly from high-adventure dream hunts to practical, everyday outdoor living, catering to a wide range of sportsmen—from the trophy hunter to the weekend angler and camp cook. Segment 1: Campfire Talk with Larry Weishuhn Guest: Larry Weishuhn ("Mr. Whitetail") Topic: DSC Convention Recap & Late Season Hunting Luke and Larry kick off the show catching up after the Dallas Safari Club (DSC) Convention. Convention Recap: They discuss the energy of the DSC convention, highlighting how great it is to reconnect with old friends and outfitters from around the world. Larry notes that despite the crowds, it felt like a family reunion for the hunting community. Late Season Opportunities: The conversation shifts to the field. Larry reminds listeners that even though mid-January marks the end of general deer season for many, there is still plenty of hunting to be done. He mentions upcoming opportunities for exotics and hogs, emphasizing that the hunting season in Texas never truly ends. Weather Talk: They touch on the bitterly cold weather sweeping through, discussing how it affects game movement and the hardiness required for late-season hunts. Segment 2: Mule Deer Hunting in Sonora, Mexico Guest: Wade Derby (Hunt Consultant, Crosshair Consulting) Topic: Giant Mule Deer of the Sonoran Desert Luke introduces Wade Derby, a veteran hunt consultant, to discuss one of the holy grails of North American hunting: Sonoran Mule Deer. The Attraction: Wade explains why Sonora is legendary—it produces mule deer with massive antlers, often exceeding 30 inches wide. He describes the unique desert terrain which allows for spot-and-stalk hunting. The Experience: They discuss the style of hunting, which involves "high-racking" (riding in high seats on trucks to spot game) and then stalking on foot. Wade emphasizes that this is a "gentleman's hunt" where you see lots of game, but patience is key to finding a trophy buck. Genetics & Management: Wade touches on how the ranches in Sonora manage their herds to allow bucks to reach full maturity, contributing to the region's reputation for record-book deer. Segment 3: Logistics and Mixed Bag in Mexico Guest: Wade Derby (Continued) Topic: Coues Deer, Safety, and Travel Continuing the discussion on Mexico, Luke and Wade dig into the logistics and other species available south of the border. Coues Deer: Beyond the giant mule deer, Wade highlights the Coues Whitetail, known as the "Grey Ghost." He describes the challenge of hunting these small, elusive deer in the higher elevations of the desert mountains. Safety Perception vs. Reality: Wade addresses the common concern about safety in Mexico. He reassures listeners that the hunting areas in Sonora are rural, peaceful, and heavily managed by outfitters who prioritize client safety. He states that the trouble spots often seen in the news are far removed from the hunting grounds. Travel Logistics: They discuss the ease of flying into Hermosillo and the professionalism of the outfitters in

Show Notes: Catfish Radio with Luke ClaytonDate: January 3, 2026 Episode Summary To kick off the new year, Luke and Larry Weishuhn discuss the onset of the deer breeding season in South Texas. The show then welcomes Wade Derby from Crosshair Consulting for a two-part discussion on booking bucket-list adventures, ranging from Alaska to Africa. Finally, Luke wraps up the hour with a solo segment on the growing world of big-bore airgun hunting, sharing tips on getting within range of game. Segment 1: Campfire Talk with Larry WeishuhnTopic: The Rut in South Texas & Late Season Strategies. Discussion: Larry "Mr. Whitetail" Weishuhn joins Luke to report on the "second rut" occurring in North Texas and the primary rut just kicking off in the brush country of South Texas. Field Notes: Larry shares a story about rattling in a buck recently and emphasizes that despite the calendar turning to January, the hunting season is far from over. He notes that scrapes are being freshened up again and bucks are actively responding to rattling horns. Segment 2: Crosshair Consulting with Wade DerbyTopic: Planning and Booking Hunts. Discussion: Wade Derby of Crosshair Consulting joins the show to explain the role of a hunting consultant. He discusses how he helps clients navigate the complex logistics of tags, travel, and outfitter selection. Featured Hunts: The conversation touches on accessible hunts for the "working man," such as black bear hunting, which Wade notes is a fantastic and affordable adventure compared to high-dollar sheep hunts. Segment 3: Worldwide Hunting with Wade DerbyTopic: International Adventures & The "Bucket List". Discussion: Wade continues the conversation by shifting focus to international destinations. They discuss the appeal of African safaris, particularly for plains game like kudu and impala, which remain a high-value option for hunters. Insight: Wade advises listeners to stop putting off their dream hunts ("someday I'll go"), encouraging them to book now while health and opportunity align, rather than waiting for a perfect moment that might never come. Segment 4: Airgun Hunting with Luke ClaytonTopic: The Challenge of Big Bore Airguns. Discussion: Luke closes the show discussing his passion for hunting with big bore air rifles (specifically .45 and .50 caliber). He explains that unlike long-range centerfire rifles, airguns require getting close—typically within 75 to 100 yards. Technique: Luke describes the satisfaction of the stalk and the necessity of getting "bow range" close, which brings the excitement of the hunt back to the basics of woodsmanship. Sponsors & MentionsSmokin Tex Electric Smokers: smokintex.com Butcher Packer Supply: butcher-packer.com Catfish Radio: catfishradio.org Crosshair Consulting: crosshairconsulting.com