Better Fishing with 2 Bald Biologists
Avid anglers Corey Oakley and Ben Ricks are North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission biologists. Listen in as they help anglers understand more about the fish and fisheries in North Carolina while promoting conservation of valuable natural resources. These monthly podcasts will link the research and surveys conducted by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission to fishing in North Carolina. Our hope is to help anglers learn more about fish, so they can catch more fish. Our expert guests will include biologists, anglers, and fishing industry professionals to talk fish and fishing in North Carolina. Thank you for listening and please submit questions and feedback to twobaldbiologists@ncwildlife.org
Episodes
Ben and Corey are joined by Ken and Pete from Take a Warrior Fishing, Inc. They discuss the organization’s mission of creating connection, camaraderie, and healing for the veteran community through free fishing experiences across North Carolina and beyond. They also talk fishing techniques, favorite spring opportunities, and how “Fishing Heals” both on and off the water.
Corey and Ben sit down with Watha Fish Hatchery Superintendent Jeff Evans to discuss how the hatchery operates and supports angling opportunities for a variety of warmwater species across North Carolina. Tune in to hear about Striped Bass production and pick up tips for targeting these feisty fish in the late spring.
Join Ben and Corey as they welcome biologist Kyle Rachels to discuss American shad fishing opportunities on the Cape Fear River. Listen in as they explore what makes the Cape Fear unique to North Carolina and share some of the best techniques for targeting these springtime visitors.
From walleye to muskellunge and beyond, discover how this unique hatchery fuels fishing across the state. Corey and Ben sit down with Assistant Superintendent Matthew Bodenhamer to explore the powerhouse behind many of North Carolina’s most sought‑after sportfish. Get a behind‑the‑scenes look at Table Rock Fish Hatchery, the state’s only coolwater facility.
Listen as Ben and Corey sit down with Josh Ballard of Deep Creek Lures, a Carolina-based tackle company. They compare fish-catching lure designs and chat about tournament angling. Get tips on winter bass fishing and other species to target in a season that many anglers overlook, but offers less pressure.
Ben and Corey sit down with Chad Thomas of the North Carolina Marine and Estuary Foundation to discuss the importance of Striped Bass to coastal North Carolina. Listen in as they talk about Striped Bass management and the partnerships that make ongoing stocking efforts and research possible.
In November's episode, The Two Bald Biologists explore the Community Fishing Program, featuring 40+ lakes stocked with channel catfish. Hatchery Superintendent Rick Bradford spotlights McKinney Lake and its State Fish Hatchery, a prime destination for catfish anglers.
In this episode, Ben and Corey sit down with fisheries biologist Casey Joubert to explore the world of largemouth bass in North Carolina. Learn why bass fishing is so popular in the state and the details behind the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission’s F1 Bass stocking project.
Whether you're an avid angler, a conservation enthusiast, or just curious about fisheries science, this episode is packed with expert insights into...
Join Corey and Ben as they sit down with District II Captain Kyle vanAlthuis for an inside look at life in the Law Enforcement Division. Kyle shares how NC Wildlife Officers collaborate with biologists and the public. This episode highlights how enforcement supports both conservation efforts and the angling community. From boating tips to fishing strategies, this episode blends conservation, education, and a deep love for the outdo...
Corey and Ben hit the water with NC Wildlife’s Ryan Kennemur, a self-proclaimed rusty angler on the hottest day of the year. Listen in as they dive into starter gear every new angler needs, luck vs. persistence while fishing, and more.
Ben and Corey talk with Biologist Troy Thompson about catching sunfish in North Carolina’s Sandhills. Tune in to learn what makes the region unique and the challenges of managing quality sunfish fisheries.
Ben and Corey head west to explore one of North Carolina’s best-kept fishing secrets, Walleye. Join them as they sit down with wildlife biologist Powell Wheeler and local fishing guide Don LaTulipe to dive into the spring spawning Walleye run and how to find them. This episode offers expert insights, regional knowledge, and fishing stories from the edge of the walleye’s southern range. Don’t miss this look at a fascinating and unde...
Join Ben and Corey as they discuss fishing Lake Hiwassee for trophy striped bass. They're accompanied by District 9 biologist Powell Wheeler and guide Don LaTulipe as they search for the new state record. Along the way, it’s clear that Ben and Corey still have what it takes to reel in striped bass!
Corey and Ben chat with coastal biologist Mason Collins about his experience as a new hire at the Wildlife Resources Commission. They dive into fish harvest and the ethical questions posed by anglers. If you've ever wondered how fish biologists view fish harvest, this is the podcast for you!
Tune in for valuable insights that may influence how you approach fish harvesting on your next fishing trip.
Corey and Ben are joined by Kelsey Roberts, “The White Bass Biologist,” to dive into the exciting springtime spawning runs of white bass in North Carolina. Kelsey shares her knowledge on this beloved species, offering tips on the best locations and baits to use for a successful catch.
Join Corey and Ben as they sit down with Christian Waters, Chief of Inland Fisheries, to explore the ins and outs of fisheries regulations. Why do these rules exist? Who do they impact? Are they even necessary? Tune in as they dive deep into the world of fisheries management.
Hurricane Helene devastated many North Carolina mountain communities last September. In this episode, Corey and Ben discuss how fish respond to natural disasters, how the Commission plans to rebuild destroyed mountain trout hatcheries, and how our staff are assessing the affected streams and habitats while planning for the future.
In this two-part podcast series, Corey and Ben sit down with professional bass anglers Matt Arey and Bryan Thrift, two of the most respected names in the bass fishing community. Based in North Carolina, their achievements have earned them national recognition. Tune in as Matt and Bryan share their expert insights on key topics such as bass fishing techniques, bass conservation efforts, stocking programs, and the NCWRC’s native aqua...
In this two-part podcast series, Corey and Ben sit down with professional bass anglers Matt Arey and Bryan Thrift, two of the most respected names in the bass fishing community. Based in North Carolina, their achievements have earned them national recognition. Tune in as Matt and Bryan share their expert insights on key topics such as bass fishing techniques, bass conservation efforts, stocking programs, and the NCWRC’s native aqua...
Our two bald biologists are joined by Assistant Fish Chief Rachael Hoch to discuss both the harmful effects and the fishing opportunities presented by aquatic nuisance species. Learn how these aquatic nuisance species threaten our native aquatic life and why it's crucial to educate one another about not introducing animals into environments where they don't belong. And remember—doing so could land you in a 'blue light special.'
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