Pat Murray of CCA Talks Redfish, Conservation, and the Power of Coastal Stewardship

In this special episode of the Mudfish Adventures Podcast, Captain Steve “Scooby” Stubbe sits down with none other than Pat Murray, President of the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA). With over two decades of leadership at CCA and a deep history as a professional fishing guide in Galveston Bay, Pat shares his remarkable journey from Texas waters to leading one of the most influential conservation organizations in the country.

🎙️ Topics covered in this episode include:

• The origins and mission of the Coastal Conservation Association, born in 1977 by 14 concerned anglers in Houston.

• The historic legislative battle that banned harmful gillnetting practices and saved redfish populations.

• How CCA helped launch marine hatcheries across Texas that have now released over 1 billion fish—including red drum, speckled trout, and southern flounder—into Gulf waters.

• CCA’s nationwide impact, with chapters from Texas to Florida, California to Maryland, all dedicated to protecting our coastal ecosystems.

• The rise of illegal red snapper fishing by cartel-backed panga fleets, and how CCA is advocating with U.S. lawmakers for stronger enforcement.

• The importance of oyster reef restoration and how oysters—nature’s water filters—support entire marine ecosystems and redfish habitats.

• Why CCA’s STAR Tournament draws 50,000 anglers each year with millions in prizes and scholarships, and how it's building the next generation of conservationists.

• Insights into mariculture, aquaculture sustainability, redfish farming, and the challenges of fishmeal-based feedstocks.

Pat also shares his passion for fly fishing and the beauty of handcrafted rods that reflect both artistry and utility, and offers advice for getting young anglers into the sport and into conservation.

💥 Whether you're a lifelong fisherman, a conservationist, or just someone who loves the Gulf Coast, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration from a true leader in marine resource advocacy.

👉 Join the movement at JoinCCA.org
📚 Learn more about Pat Murray’s work at patrickdmurray.net