Episode 16 - Catfish Noodling, Conservation Battles, and the Dog of a Lifetime

A broken finger, a conservation fight, and a hunting dog you'll never forget. Field & Stream's Will Brantley kicks things off with one of the most unique fishing traditions in America: catfish noodling. From wrestling giant flathead catfish by hand to the injuries, close calls, and camaraderie that keep him coming back every summer, Brantley shares what makes this high-risk fishing adventure so addictive. Then conservation columnist Hal Herring and associate editor Travis Hall sit down for an honest conversation about the state of conservation in America. They break down the biggest public lands, clean water, and wildlife management issues facing hunters and anglers today, discuss why grassroots engagement matters more than ever, and explain what gives them hope for the future of hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation. The episode closes with a powerful Campfire reading of Hal Herring’s beloved story, Seasons with Bear. More than a gun dog story, it’s a reflection on loyalty, loss, bird hunting, and the unforgettable bond between hunters and their dogs. Whether you spend your fall chasing ducks, upland birds, whitetails, or trout, this story will stay with you long after the final words. Follow the show for more weekly hunting and fishing conversations. Get more from Field & Stream: https://www.fieldandstream.com/ Get to know your host, Colin Kearns: https://www.fieldandstream.com/authors/colin-kearns              Join the F&S 1871 Club and experience a membership dedicated to the outdoor culture of sporting traditions, storytelling, and the conservation of our lands: https://www.fieldandstream.com/1871-club/  Sound effects and sound design for Campfire provided by: FIREBurn_Campfire.Close.Long.Crackling.Flame roar.Squeack.Hiss.Artificial 1_EM by newlocknew -- https://freesound.org/s/730704/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 Peaceful Autumn field OCTOBER 6 2022.WAV by kvgarlic -- https://freesound.org/s/652652/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 shotgun shoot by MrGungus -- https://freesound.org/s/773873/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 Shotguns_racking_and_handling_sounds_part2 by Artninja -- https://freesound.org/s/741111/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 Sound effects and sound design for Campfire provided by: Editing and sound design by Trout Stream Studios Marc Anderson of Wild Ambience Paul Driver of Pennsylvania Dog_panting_20090425T1417.wav by gurkboll -- https://freesound.org/s/95934/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 Dog Panting in Woods.WAV by hargissssound -- https://freesound.org/s/321127/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices