The Muskie Hunks Podcast

E54 - Recent Events, Upcoming Show Season and the Return of Drunk Owen

In this episode we talk about the upcoming 2023 Musky show season. We talk about shows we plan to attend, gear that we are targeting and then the man and the myth and the legend, drunk Owen comes out to play. 

 

Ohio Musky Show:

Jan. 27, 28, 29 2023

Makoy Event Center

5462 Center St, Hilliard, OH 43026

606-776-6567 or 606-776-6729

http://www.ohiomuskyshow.com/

 

New York Musky Expo:

February 4th(9am-5pm) and February 5th 2023. (9am-1pm).

Chautauqua Suites and Expo center located in Mayville New York

https://www.facebook.com/groups/497322881051693

 

THE Muskie MAX Plus 2023:

MARCH 4 + 5, 2023

PRINTSCAPE ARENA - CANONSBURG, PA

https://www.muskiemax.com/ 

 

E53 - 2023 ”New York, New York” Musky Expo Update with Zach Baker

In this episode we catchup with one of New York's premiere lure builders, Zach Baker. We talk about the upcoming 2023 New York Musky Expo, Baker Baits and updates from Chapter 69 of Muskies Inc. 

 

Upcoming New York Musky Expo Information:

The New York Musky Expo will be held February 4th(9am-5pm) and February 5th, 2023 (9am-1pm). It will be held at the Chautauqua Suites and Expo center located in Mayville New York. Builders and vendors from all across the US and Canada will be there. Sat February 4th from 7pm to 9pm there will be a Lure swap meet. There will also be seminars scheduled throughout both days. Lots of door prizes and raffles.

 

Entry fee will be $10 for single day or $20 for two day pass and swap meet.

Muskies inc. Chapter 69 will be conducting kids activities.

Tickets can be purchased in advance but will not get you in the doors first.

 

Check out the Facebook group:

New York Musky Expo | Facebook

E52 - It’s Musky Thyme, with Chef Ryan Chavara

In this episode, we talk to a local friend, breakfast sandwich guru, and budding musky fisherman, Ryan Chavara. Ryan owns and operates Thyme Machine, a highly sought-after breakfast sandwich cart in Bloomfield (a popular neighborhood in Pittsburgh for you non-yinzers). Ryan shares some of the history behind Thyme Machine, as well as an inspirational story about how and why he found fishing so late in his life by most standards. Ryan tells us the interesting and analytical angle he took to teaching himself how to fish in a rather short period of time (a mindset which quickly led him to finding a passion for musky). Ryan tells us some of the most constructive things he learned when he was starting out, and on the other hand, some of the more destructive things that may have initially led him in the wrong direction. Ryan eventually asks us some of his own questions, and also shares an interesting outlook on why he doesn’t think he’s quite ready to fully appreciate a destination musky trip. We wind down by discussing some advice for those intimidated by taking the leap into musky fishing or just intimidated by networking with fellow musky fisherman. Keeping the pattern of derailment alive, we end on how to properly make an onion volcano like a hibachi chef.

E51 - The Dunning-Kruger Effect - Going Mental on Muskies

In this laid-back episode, we get a little science-y, as we dive into a strange psychological concept that often pops up in fishing: The Dunning-Kruger effect (Google it). We go down a hole discussing this interesting concept and talking about some of the ways we've seen it in fishing. We talk about some other "musky mindset" questions and ideas, and how we deal with some of the mental abuse that comes as part of musky fishing. We eventually land on our (lack of) Christmas lists for this year.

E50 - A Walk Down Memory Lane

In this celebratory episode, we go back and reflect on our last 50 episodes. We revisit some highs, lows, favorite guests, topics, and hilarious moments from the last 150 hours of podcasting. We discuss why we do what we do, and what our plan is for the future. Donnie promises to get a mic if we make it to 100.

E49 - Can’t Hurt Boat Crew Two, or Jake Latkovic

In this episode, we talk with Jake Latkovic of Latkovic Lures. Our chat was so enjoyable that it went the distance at three hours- so, maybe break this one up into a few sections. Jake’s baits recently received a glowing review from the Fat A.Z. Musky Podcast, and have started spreading throughout the PA musky community as fast as he’s able to make them. Jake, local to Pittsburgh, talks about his history in fishing and lure making. We touch on the “79 Belt” of musky baits and whether or not that influences his own bait making. Jake tells us about the delicious place where he sometimes swim tests his lures. The guys explain a little bit of Pittsburgh-ese and propose what would be the most epic Yinzer musky ever caught. Jake eventually flips the script and begins asking the Hunks some questions and this leads into a chat on winter fishing, motivating yourself through said fishing, the past present and future of the PA musky program, and of course, show season.

E48 - Gettin’ Low With Ben Stone

In this episode, we are rejoined by Ben Stone. Ben was one voice of many in the original Musky Battle podcast, and we finally got him back for a solo interview. Ben, a young content creator, tells us a little about how he got into fishing, and also how he got into filming and editing. He shares some funny stories from along the way, including a very "fishy" highschool project and the very frank way in which he got involved with Youtube as a whole. Ben, as of recently, is also the face of Kanalgratis USA: a free fishing channel which started in Europe and has since grown into a global brand. Ben shares stories about how this happened, his first trip overseas to chase Euro pike and some of his plans for the future. Finally, we end with some advice from Ben on how to see the light when social media has you feeling a little dark.

E47 - “Hold My Shirt”: The Episode About Nothing

In this Hunks-only mess of an episode, we let the wind take us and talk about a little bit of everything. A few of the guys talk about their plans for fall and winter fishing, while a few others talk about some oddball cold weather tactics that many don’t consider. This conversation leads to another conversation (and listener question) about the proper way to "just make it work” with your bass gear if you’re on the fence about getting into musky fishing. We pick this apart and do our best to talk about the right way to downsize your gear for safe and effective use of bass-sized baits on bigger fish. We talk about launching boats without launches, and revisit some more items to include in that beginner boat kit that we left out last week. Nick becomes the Bubba Gump of secondhand anchors, and recaps some of his most memorable harvests.

E46 - Donnie Wants to Be Like Chase Gibson When He Grows Up

In this episode, we sit down with musky nut, guide, and previous WV record holder, Chase Gibson. Chase goes all the way back, and tells us how he got into fishing, guiding for muskies, boat ownership, and more. We discuss why Chase loves his home state, some other places he has visited, and some relationships he has forged in the industry. Chase talks about what he likes and dislikes about where the industry is headed, and also where the WV stocking program is headed. He gives some pointers for people headed to the Mountain State in search of a big girl, and tells the story of his own previous record. Chase tells us which Batic brother is the better fisherman, and agrees to a live wrestling match, versus both, at the next Musky Show (allegedly).

E45 - Boats ’N Woes

In this seven-man episode, we have all five regular Hunks, plus we call in two reinforcements for this beginner boating discussion. We invite back a name you all should know by now: Mark King, of Keystone King Musky Lures. We also call up Matt Fuchs, aka "Corn". Corn is a longtime friend of Tom, who was raised by the wrench and (allegedly) eats gasoline in his frosted flakes. We start off talking about Ryan's latest purchase, which believe it or not, is NOT more musky lures. We talk about some beginner boating mistakes, some good things for beginners to buy and do, and some little tricks and hacks that can make your first few years of boat ownership easier and safer. The Hunks desperately try to acquire the Harbor Freight sponsorship. Owen tells us how not to take care of your boat. 

E44 - Three Is The Loneliest Number - Rando BS Session

Owen, Donnie and Ryan just BS about recent events, Ryan's Boat Buying Woes and the good bad and the ugly of social media. We are all over the map on this one. Sometimes we just need to hang out , drink beers and shoot the $6#@ with the boys. 

E43 - Hunks Weekend 2022 - Hunky, Chunky, and a Little Bit Funky

In this episode, we recap Hunks Weekend 2022. We are joined by the whole gang in attendance that weekend- including Mark King of Keystone King Musky Lures, Nate Budziszewski, and the man, the myth, the legend: Don Senior. We go from start to finish talking about the fishing, the shenanigans, the food, and of course, the rescues. Ryan steals the belt (sort of?). Team Swink beats us to the lake from 2 hours away, despite the fact that we camped 100 yards away. Owen and Senior man the Blackstone. Tom almost falls in the musky net with a musky. Nate and Mark reconsider ever coming back. Nick ditches us and ruins Owen's birthday (again).

E42 - A Beginner’s Guide to Stuffing Walleye, Stretching Muskies, and Native Canadian Skunks

In this Hunks-only variety episode, we welcome yet another honorary guest Hunk, Kellen Campbell. We invite Kellen on to discuss their recent Canada trip. However, we start the episode on a more scandalous note, talking about what everyone else has already heard and talked about: the LEWT cheating debacle. We do our best to talk about this and what we think about the situation given our limited knowledge of the walleye world. Eventually, we switch to a lighter topic (kind of), and talk about the Canadian Hunks Skunk. We discuss what happened, and how to bounce back from a heartbreak trip. Kellen gives us some good advice about keeping your mind in the game and staying positive when times get tough. Donnie and Kellen talk about their recent NY outing and Don Senior’s 50 with Vance from Muddy Creek. Eventually, after already trying once to wrap up for the night, we get into a quick line discussion, and talk about where the bananas on boats superstition came from.

E41 - What Happened to Episode 40?

In this episode, we talk about the main reason why we pulled the original episode 40 off of the air. 

Episode 40:

In this Hunks-only variety episode, we welcome yet another honorary guest Hunk, Kellen Campbell. We invite Kellen on to discuss their recent Canada trip. However, we start the episode on a more scandalous note, talking about what everyone else has already heard and talked about: the LEWT cheating debacle. We do our best to talk about this and what we think about the situation given our limited knowledge of the walleye world. Then, while we’ve tried to avoid it, we felt it was necessary to address the recent “alleged” happenings in the musky world and our thoughts on this “alleged” situation (allegedly). Eventually, we switch to a lighter topic (kind of), and talk about the Canadian Hunks Skunk. We discuss what happened, and how to bounce back from a heartbreak trip. Kellen gives us some good advice about keeping your mind in the game and staying positive when times get tough. Donnie and Kellen talk about their recent NY outing and Don Senior’s 50 with Vance from Muddy Creek. Eventually, after already trying once to wrap up for the night, we get into a quick line discussion, and talk about where the bananas on boats superstition came from.

E39 - Singing the Musky Blues With Joe Bucher

In this extremely special episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with musky fishing’s grandfather and Hall of Famer, Joe Bucher. Joe tells us some of his history in fishing, filming, guiding, writing, speaking, bait making, and even mentoring. He shares stories of things he has seen change along the way, for both the better and worse. He tells us a little about the early versions of his lures, including how they became popular, and how they were originally made. He gives the guys some advice on how to deal with getting skunked on destination/vacation trips. When our time unfortunately comes to a close, Joe leaves us with a guitar riff and some invaluable advice regarding both fishing and life. A huge thank you goes out to our previous guest, Tyler Andrews, for making this unforgettable evening possible.

E38 - Off the Rails With Banging Bottom Outfitters

Pull up a chair to this three-hour sideshow as we get to know the guys of Banging Bottom Outfitters. BBO, out of Western PA, guides primarily on Pymatuning, and consists of Doug Vanasco, Jesse Barnhart, Joel Morrow, and Brian Luffey. The eight of us talk about how the guys got their start, and of course how they got the name. We talk a little bit about what they believe in as far as their day-to-day mentality, and some useful tips for anglers who may be struggling or just feeling the pressure of musky fishing. After a few drinks, things go completely off the rails, and Doug decides to give away his secret spots and interview us. Joel debunks rumors of his famous "musky call" and talks about his preferred choice of footwear. Jesse ruins the perfect streak. Luffey talks a little about something he has, and something we've discussed in the past: pontoons for musky trolling. Donnie gives Doug COVID.

E37 - Brian Skaife and Angling Anarchy

In this episode, we welcome a name that anyone with the internet and a musky rod knows: Brian Skaife, or as you may know him, Angling Anarchy. We also welcome another honorary hunk as a sit-in cohost: Nate Budziszewski. With so many videos on so many topics, it's hard to cover anything that Brian hasn't; but, we do our best to keep it fresh while discussing his history in fishing, filming, and some advice for both. Brian talks about some common misconceptions of Youtube, some upcoming and past fishing trips, and we already start dreaming about show season. Brian gets invited to Hunks Weekend. 

E36 - Blinded by the Light with Tyler Andrews

In this episode, we sit down with Tyler Andrews (FKA "The Musky Guru"). Tyler tells us a little bit about how he got into fishing as a kid, and how that eventually led to his obsession with the musky. We talk about his relationship with some of the godfathers of musky fishing, some stories from spending time in the boat with them, and some fun facts we never knew. We eventually talk about how he ended up both on a t-shirt and in a video game. Tyler gives some advice about how to maximize your time as a weekend warrior, and how to ethically and effectively scare away crackheads from launch ramps while night fishing. Donnie catches COVID.

E35 - Dave in Minnesota

In this week's episode, we welcome Dave (in Minnesota), a name you've probably heard before if you listen. Dave (originally from PA, but now in Minnesota) is a longtime friend of Donnie (in Pennsylvania), and arguably the reason Donnie (in Pennsylvania) started chasing musky (in Pennsylvania, and Minnesota). Dave (in Minnesota) sits in as a guest co-host as we tell fish tales. Dave (in Minnesota) talks a little about his past (in Pennsylvania, and Minnesota) and schools us on how he breaks down new water as an amateur musky fisherman with resources available to most anglers (everywhere). Towards the end, we even hear a few fish stories from his two young sons' points of view (also in Minnesota). Owen invites Dave (from Minnesota) to Hunks Weekend (in Pennsylvania).

E34 - Caught in a GLITCH with Mike Conklyn and Conklyn Lures

In this episode , we talk with Mike Conklyn , owner of Conklyn Lures and creator of the Glitch, a hybrid glider and twitch bait. Mike created a very versatile musky lure that is a quality product at a very cost friendly price point. We talk to Mike about where he started musky fishing up in Wisconsin, how he started bait making, Mike tells a few stories and we sit around and BS about Muskies. Mike is a great dude and we were pumped to have him on! Check out Conklyn Lures!

https://www.facebook.com/ConklynLures