Advertise on podcast: Science of Fishing

On this episode of The Science of Fishing, we sit down with Brent Brauner, Director of Product Marketing at Huk, to talk about the gear he trusts every time he steps on the water. From chasing tarpon on the fly to offshore adventures targeting marlin, Brent shares how real-world fishing experience helps shape some of Huk's most popular apparel and footwear. We dive into the features behind the A1 Pro and Airweight collections, discuss the technology that powers Huk's Rogue Wave boots and Rogue Island flip-flops, and explore what anglers should look for when choosing gear for everything from flats fishing to offshore runs. Along the way, Brent shares stories from his lifelong journey in fishing, how his father introduced him to fly fishing at a young age, and why tarpon remains one of the most exciting species he has ever pursued. Whether you're a weekend angler or a hardcore offshore fisherman, this episode is packed with insights on fishing, performance gear, and life on the water. REEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: [email protected] SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

Artificial intelligence is making its way into offshore fishing—but what does that actually mean for anglers? In this episode of The Science of Fishing, we sit down with Captain Greg Mayer and Martin from Simrad to explore how AI-powered sonar is changing the way captains find and track fish. The conversation dives into how a virtual sonar operator works, how the AI learns from experienced captains, and why it's designed to be an assistant rather than a replacement. Greg shares firsthand experiences using the technology on the water, explaining how it helps identify fish he might otherwise miss while allowing him to focus on running the boat and managing clients. We also discuss the future of AI in fishing, from automated sonar adjustments and smarter fish tracking to reducing bycatch, improving fuel efficiency, and making offshore fishing more sustainable. Whether you're excited about new technology or skeptical of AI's role in the sport, this episode offers an inside look at one of the biggest innovations shaping the future of fishing. REEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: [email protected] SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

In this special episode of The Science of Fishing, recorded aboard the historic USS Yorktown during the SFC Carrier Cup presented by Huk, we sit down with Huk's Director of Design, Jillian, to explore the science and innovation behind some of the most advanced fishing apparel and footwear on the market. From UPF protection and moisture management to breathable fabrics, performance footwear, and gear built specifically for anglers, we break down what actually goes into designing clothing that performs on the water.We also take an inside look at Huk's newest product lines, including the A1 Pro Series, Watershed Collection, Airway Collection, women's performance apparel, deck boots, and the brand-new Rogue Island Sandals. Whether you're fishing in the Florida heat, battling cold weather conditions, or looking for gear that transitions seamlessly from the boat to everyday life, this episode offers a fascinating look at the technology, testing, and design philosophy behind the products anglers rely on every day.A huge thank you to Huk for supporting The Science of Fishing and helping make this episode possible.REEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: [email protected] SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

This week on The Science of Fishing, we sit down aboard Bad Company with Alex Plick of Wicked Wells to talk live bait performance, offshore innovation, and the technology helping serious anglers stay competitive. From pressurized livewells and bait longevity to fiberglass pump boxes and bilge safety, Alex breaks down what separates Wicked Wells from traditional systems and why more tournament and charter boats are making the switch. We dive into the real-world advantages of keeping bait healthier longer, how premium livewell systems can impact tournament success, and why eliminating corrosion and improving safety below deck matters just as much as what’s happening at the surface. Alex also shares stories from the tournament trail and talks Walker’s Cay, the Lights Out crew, and what makes the Bahamas such a special fishery. If you’re serious about offshore fishing, live bait management, and building a better boat, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.REEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: [email protected] SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

On this episode of Science of Fishing, we sit down with tournament standout Blaine Birch to break down one of the most dominant offshore fishing seasons in recent memory. After a year that included wins in nearly every major tournament they entered, Blaine shares what it takes to consistently stay on top in the ultra-competitive world of blue marlin and white marlin fishing.We dive into sonar technology, tournament decision-making, reading bird life and water conditions, and how modern offshore crews are using teamwork and preparation to gain an edge. Blaine also talks about fishing legendary areas like the Hudson Canyon, Wilmington Canyon, Oregon Inlet, and the Northeast tuna grounds while reflecting on how offshore fishing has evolved over the years.From big money tournament pressure to the debate over whether sonar is changing the sport forever, this episode is packed with insight for anyone obsessed with marlin fishing, tuna fishing, and competitive offshore angling.REEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: [email protected] SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

On this episode of Science of Fishing, we sit down with tournament standout Blaine Birch to break down one of the most dominant offshore fishing seasons in recent memory. After a year that included wins in nearly every major tournament they entered, Blaine shares what it takes to consistently stay on top in the ultra-competitive world of blue marlin and white marlin fishing.We dive into sonar technology, tournament decision-making, reading bird life and water conditions, and how modern offshore crews are using teamwork and preparation to gain an edge. Blaine also talks about fishing legendary areas like the Hudson Canyon, Wilmington Canyon, Oregon Inlet, and the Northeast tuna grounds while reflecting on how offshore fishing has evolved over the years.From big money tournament pressure to the debate over whether sonar is changing the sport forever, this episode is packed with insight for anyone obsessed with marlin fishing, tuna fishing, and competitive offshore angling.REEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: [email protected] SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

In this episode of The Science of Fishing, we sit down with the team behind the Louisiana Canyons to break down what it really takes to compete at the highest level of sportfishing. From high-stakes tournament pressure to seven-hour battles in the chair, this conversation dives into the mindset, preparation, and experience that separate good crews from great ones. We also explore a unique dynamic in the sport—a father coaching from the bridge while his daughter fights some of the biggest fish in the world. From early days learning the ropes to landing marlin on the biggest stages, their story is one of trust, repetition, and relentless improvement. Plus, we get into the evolution of their team, the business side of sportfishing, and what it means to now step into ownership within the league. If you want to understand how elite anglers stay calm under pressure and consistently cash checks in major tournaments, this episode breaks it all down. REEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: [email protected] SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

In this episode of The Science of Fishing, we sit down with a Rhode Island-based angler to break down what it really takes to compete in today’s offshore tournament scene. From humble beginnings fishing stripers and fluke along the Jersey shore to chasing blue marlin in the Bahamas, this conversation dives deep into the progression of a serious fisherman.We get into the excitement and pressure of traveling tournament circuits, how crews prepare for unfamiliar waters like Charleston and the Bahamas, and why blue marlin fishing stands out as one of the most electrifying experiences in the sport. Along the way, there are stories of once-in-a-lifetime encounters, including a massive blue marlin that pushed the limits of what’s possible offshore.Whether you’re chasing tuna up north or dreaming about big game fishing in warmer waters, this episode gives you a real look at the mindset, strategy, and passion behind competitive fishing at the highest level.REEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: [email protected] SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

In this episode of The Science of Fishing, we sit down with Garrett Frazier, owner and angler of the Third Coast Renegades, to break down how a newly built crew turned into one of the most competitive teams in offshore fishing—and cashed a $2.6 million tournament payday.Garrett shares how the Renegades went all in, building a traveling program that pushed their limits across the Gulf, Costa Rica, and Baja, compressing years of experience into just a few seasons. From dialing in crew roles to trusting elite captain Drake Sawyer and a battle-tested cockpit, this conversation reveals how preparation, adaptability, and mindset translate directly into results at the highest level.We also dive into tournament strategy, risk management, and what it means to compete for life-changing money, along with Garrett’s philosophy on leadership, investing in your crew, and building a culture with no egos. Beyond fishing, Garrett brings an entrepreneurial background as co-founder of Magnifico Media, applying business principles and brand-building to the sport fishing world.The Third Coast Renegades represent more than just a team—they’re part of a new era of offshore fishing, where competition, media, and opportunity are growing faster than ever.SUPPORT OUR SPONSORSBloody Battery: https://www.bloodybattery.comShady Rays: https://www.shadyrays.com (use code SCIENCE for 35% off)E-Sea Rider Marine Bean Bags: https://www.eseaerider.comREEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: [email protected] SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

In this episode of The Science of Fishing, we sit down with Captain Stuart Lackey of the South Carolina Outcast to break down what it takes to consistently stay on billfish in one of the most competitive fisheries on the East Coast. With decades of experience fishing out of Charleston, Stuart shares how offshore fishing has evolved from the early days to today’s technology-driven approach, and why understanding timing, location, and conditions is more important than ever. From dialing in seasonal patterns at home to making long runs up north and chasing world-class bites in Costa Rica, he walks through how top captains make the decisions that keep them on fish. The conversation also dives into tournament strategy, the importance of communication between boats, and how repetition builds confidence when opportunities are limited. As Stuart looks toward stepping back from full-time fishing, he reflects on bringing his sons into the sport and what it means to pass down a lifetime of knowledge on the water. SUPPORT OUR SPONSORSBloody Battery: https://www.bloodybattery.comShady Rays: https://www.shadyrays.com (use code SCIENCE for 35% off)E-Sea Rider Marine Bean Bags: https://www.eseaerider.comREEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: [email protected] SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

In this episode of The Science of Fishing, Captain JC Cleare breaks down what it takes to stay competitive through the grind of the South Florida tournament circuit. Coming off a win at the Tournament of Champions, JC walks through how his team approaches back-to-back events, adapts to changing bite patterns, and prepares for a packed schedule stretching from Miami to Key West and up the East Coast.We dive into the current sailfish bite across South Florida, why consistency has been a challenge this season, and how different regions like Palm Beach and the Keys are producing. JC also explains the strategic differences between fishing smaller center consoles versus larger sportfish boats—and why boat choice can make or break your ability to catch multiple fish in tournament conditions.SUPPORT OUR SPONSORSBloody Battery: https://www.bloodybattery.comShady Rays: https://www.shadyrays.com (use code SCIENCE for 35% off)E-Sea Rider Marine Bean Bags: https://www.eseaerider.comREEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: [email protected] SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

In this episode of The Science of Fishing, we sit down with Captain Spencer Johnson to break down his journey from guiding in Texas to running high-level offshore sport-fishing operations around the world.From early days chasing bass on Lake Fork to competing in elite tournaments across the Bahamas, Cabo, and the Gulf, Spencer shares what it really takes to level up in big game fishing. We dive into strategy, tournament mindset, evolving technology, and how consistent execution—not just chasing big bites—wins over time.SUPPORT OUR SPONSORSBloody Battery: https://www.bloodybattery.comShady Rays: https://www.shadyrays.com (use code SCIENCE for 35% off)E-Sea Rider Marine Bean Bags: https://www.eseaerider.comREEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: [email protected] SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

In this episode of The Science of Fishing, we sit down with a team that’s been running nonstop across some of the top sport-fishing destinations in the world—from Cabo to Costa Rica and beyond. They break down what it really takes to stay on the move full-time, including tournament strategy, boat management, crew dynamics, and how to consistently produce bites across different fisheries. The conversation covers everything from high-volume sailfish days in Costa Rica to targeting tuna and marlin, dialing in teaser and pitch bait techniques, and the role of preparation, teamwork, and experience at the highest levels of offshore fishing. We also get into the mindset behind it all—why they chose to keep the boat in gear, how they approach new fisheries, and what it takes to compete against some of the best crews in the world. If you're serious about offshore fishing, tournament strategy, or running a program at a high level, this episode is packed with insight. SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS Bloody Battery: https://www.bloodybattery.com Shady Rays: https://www.shadyrays.com (use code SCIENCE for 35% off) E-Sea Rider Marine Bean Bags: https://www.eseaerider.com REEL IN SOME MERCH Shop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merch JOIN THE COMMUNITY Questions, guest requests, or ideas? Email Mark: [email protected] FOLLOW SCIENCE OF FISHING Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishing TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishing Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishing Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish #scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

What starts as a fishing trip turns into a story about family, legacy, and why Pacific Fins in Guatemala keeps pulling people back year after year.In this episode, we sit down with Zach Miller, founder of the Bravest vs. Finest tournament, and talk about how a guy from Colorado ended up building a deep connection to one of the best blue water fisheries in the world. From catching mahi that were literally bigger than his son, to landing a 228-pound yellowfin on light tackle, to watching his kid declare himself a blue water fisherman, this conversation hits the heart of what fishing really creates beyond the catch.Zach also shares why he started Bravest vs. Finest, a tournament that brings first responders to Pacific Fins to reset, reconnect, and experience the kind of mentorship and education that builds real confidence on the water. We dig into what makes this fishery special, the conservation culture that protects it, and why the captains here consistently produce insane numbers of bites and releases.BRAVEST VS FINEST:   / bravest_vs_finest  ZACH:   / nautical_pathfinder_fishing  SUPPORT OUR SPONSORSBloody Battery: https://www.bloodybattery.comShady Rays: https://www.shadyrays.com (use code SCIENCE for 35% off)E-Sea Rider Marine Bean Bags: https://www.eseaerider.comREEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/m...JOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: [email protected] SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram:   / scienceoffishing  TikTok:   / scienceoffishing  Facebook:   / scienceoffishing  Twitter/X:   / scienceoffish  #scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

Most fishing stories get told through numbers. How many fish. How big. How fast the bite was. This one starts somewhere else. At Pacific Fins in Guatemala, the real story lives in the captains, the mates, and the culture they build on the water and back at the dock. In this episode, Jay Rodriguez breaks down why the education, the attention, and the human connection matter more than the catch count. From a captain stepping off the bridge to fix a technique in real time, to mates treating every angler like family, this is what makes a fishery sustainable and unforgettable. We also dig into the Billfish Conservation Project, why healthy releases protect the future of this fishery, and how Pacific Fins balances world-class fishing with real stewardship. If you care about fishing as a craft, a culture, and a long game, this one’s for you.Check out Pacific Fins: https://pacificfinsresort.com/SUPPORT OUR SPONSORSBloody Battery: https://www.bloodybattery.comShady Rays: https://www.shadyrays.com (use code SCIENCE for 35% off)E-Sea Rider Marine Bean Bags: https://www.eseaerider.comREEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/m...JOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: [email protected] SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram:   / scienceoffishing  TikTok:   / scienceoffishing  Facebook:   / scienceoffishing  Twitter/X:   / scienceoffish  #scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife