Louisiana Legends

Chad “Cheech” Gonzales didn't grow up as some legendary Louisiana trout fisherman.He became one through pure obsession.After getting back into fishing in 2019, Chad spent countless days on the water studying tides, wind, satellite imagery, bait presentation, water depth, hard baits, casting distance, boat positioning and just about every other variable he could find.Eventually, the Hopedale fishing community gave him another name: The Professor.In this episode of Louisiana Legends, Chad joins Boyce and Nathan to tell the story of how he went from getting his boat stuck in the Louisiana marsh for HOURS to becoming one of the most methodical speckled trout fishermen in Hopedale.And then Cliff Hall crashes the podcast.We get into:• Why Chad became obsessed with Hopedale• Catching 100+ trout on his first trip with Cliff Hall• Why he stopped chasing limits and started chasing BIG trout• Release Over 20 and Louisiana trout conservation• Hard baits, jerkbaits and topwater fishing• Why 10 lb braid completely changed his fishing• How far casting can matter for trophy trout• Why Chad barely uses his trolling motor• The insane importance of stealth and boat noise• FG knots, Canoe Man loop knots and leader setup• Learning from John Miller, Devin Denman and other Louisiana trout fishermen• Why fishing with another great angler can accelerate everything• The changing Hopedale and Biloxi Marsh fishery• Why Chad might eventually become addicted to Venice• And why if you slam a boat hatch... the trout will be back NEXT THURSDAYThis one gets deep into the mentality behind consistently finding and catching speckled trout in Louisiana.If you're obsessed with speckled trout, Hopedale, Biloxi Marsh, hard-bait fishing or simply becoming a better angler, this episode is for you.Louisiana Legends PodcastReal people. Real stories. Louisiana.Subscribe for the full episodes and new Louisiana fishing content every week.

Rob Buck has spent over 15 years rescuing boaters in South Louisiana, and if you fish Venice, Louisiana, there’s a good chance you’ve either heard his name or needed his number.In this episode of Louisiana Legends, we sit down with Rob Buck of Sea Tow South Louisiana to talk about the real dangers of fishing Venice, how fast the Mississippi River Delta changes, and why even experienced fishermen can get into serious trouble if they don’t respect the water.Rob shares stories from years of pulling boats off sandbars, rocks, shallow passes, and mud flats — including one unbelievable rescue where a stranded fisherman was missing from Friday to Sunday, ran out of fuel, was covered in mud and blood, and still refused to leave his boat when a helicopter showed up.We also break down some of the most dangerous areas around Venice, including Tiger Pass, South Pass, Cubits Gap, Octave, the Jump, and other places where GPS tracks can give fishermen a false sense of security. Rob explains why tide range, river level, moon phase, sediment, and constantly shifting sandbars can make yesterday’s safe route a completely different situation today.If you’ve ever launched in Venice, run the river, chased trout, fished the beaches, or thought about making your first trip down there, this episode is packed with information that could save your boat — and maybe your life.We also get into Rob’s background, from growing up in the New Orleans area to working in banking, land development, BP response work, and eventually building a life around the water. Along the way, Rob shares what he’s learned from decades of fishing, towing, rescuing, and navigating one of the most dangerous and rewarding fisheries in the country.This is a must-watch for anyone who fishes South Louisiana.Follow Louisiana Legends for more conversations with the people, stories, and places that make Louisiana one of a kind.

We drove across Louisiana to sit down with two men who helped shape modern speckled trout fishing: Paul Brown and Bruce Baugh.Paul Brown is the creator of the legendary Corky, a lure that became synonymous with targeting trophy speckled trout along the Gulf Coast.Sitting beside him is Bruce Baugh, Troutmasters Angler of the Year, lifelong wade fisherman, and one of the most respected big-trout anglers to ever fish Louisiana and Texas waters.And these two aren't just fishing legends.They're neighbors.In this episode, Paul tells the incredible story of how the Corky was developed, built by hand, tested by hardcore fishermen, modified until it behaved exactly the way trophy-trout anglers needed it to, and eventually became one of the most iconic speckled trout lures ever created.Bruce takes us back to the glory days of trophy trout fishing, when Calcasieu Lake was producing numbers of giant trout that sound almost impossible today. He explains how he learned to target big fish, why he became obsessed with wade fishing, how he competed in the original Troutmasters circuit, and what happened to some of the legendary fisheries that once produced enormous speckled trout.They talk about 13-pound trout, 9- and 10-pound-class fish, Corky secrets, old-school lure making, Troutmasters, Baffin Bay, Port Mansfield, Calcasieu Lake, conservation, gill nets, oyster reefs, wade fishing, releasing trophy trout, and decades of Gulf Coast fishing history.But the best part isn't the accomplishments.It's getting to sit under a dock and listen to two old friends tell the stories themselves.No internet research. No secondhand stories. No fishing folklore passed down through five different people.Paul Brown and Bruce Baugh, in their own words.This is Louisiana fishing history.If you love speckled trout fishing, trophy trout, Louisiana fishing history, the Corky, wade fishing, or simply hearing stories from the people who were actually there, this is an episode you don't want to miss.

If you fish Louisiana, chances are you've heard Josh Hall's name. While he may not be the loudest voice in the fishing world, those who know, know. Josh has spent decades mastering Louisiana's marshes, dominating redfish tournaments, and learning Lake Pontchartrain one tide at a time.In this episode of Louisiana Legends Podcast, Josh shares the lessons he's learned from thousands of days on the water, from chasing giant trout around Seabrook and the Causeway to sight fishing redfish at the highest level of tournament competition.We dive into:• How Chas Champagne helped shape Josh's fishing career• Why Lake Pontchartrain is getting better every year• The truth about Delacroix's changing redfish population• Tournament strategies that consistently produce winning fish• The difference between finding fish and finding tournament fish• Bank fishing stories that every Louisiana angler will appreciate• Josh's custom spinnerbait that can survive dozens of redfish• Why he stopped filling the freezer with fish• His plans for charter fishing and life on the waterWhether you're chasing speckled trout, sight fishing redfish, or just love hearing stories from anglers who've earned their reputation the hard way, this is an episode you don't want to miss.If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and leave a comment letting us know who you'd like to see on Louisiana Legends Podcast next.🎣 Follow Louisiana Legends Podcast for more conversations with the people who have shaped Louisiana fishing.

Everyone in Louisiana knows Chag's. But very few people know the stories behind the counter.In this episode of the Louisiana Legends Podcast, we sit down with Sammy Romano, the longtime manager of Chag's Sporting Goods and one of the most respected voices in Louisiana fishing.After spending more than three decades talking to the best fishermen in the state, Sammy has seen Louisiana's fisheries change firsthand. From the legendary trout fishing of the 1990s to today's debates over habitat loss, pogey boats, and conservation, he shares stories and insights that only someone with a front-row seat could tell.We also dive into:🎣 How Chag's became a Louisiana icon🎣 Growing up fishing Lafitte and the New Orleans area🎣 The glory days of Seabrook, Breton Sound, Elmer's Island, and Chandeleur🎣 The biggest trout and bass stories of his life🎣 Why finding patterns matters more than finding spots🎣 How Louisiana's marshes have changed over the last 40 years🎣 What every angler gets wrong about fisheries management🎣 Behind-the-scenes stories about some of Louisiana's greatest fishermenWhether you've been shopping at Chag's for decades or you're just getting into fishing, this episode is packed with history, stories, and knowledge you won't hear anywhere else.If you love Louisiana fishing, subscribe because we've got more conversations with the legends who built our fishing culture.👍 Like the video if you enjoyed it.💬 Tell us your favorite Chag's memory or the best piece of fishing advice you've ever received.

Chas Champagne just gave us nearly three decades of Louisiana fishing knowledge in one conversation.Most people know Chas as the founder of Matrix Shad, but the real story goes much deeper. He started as a kid obsessed with fishing, learned directly from some of the greatest anglers Lake Pontchartrain has ever produced, and eventually built one of the most recognizable fishing brands in Louisiana.In this episode, Chas explains how Matrix Shad really started, why most fishermen overthink lure color, what separates great anglers from everyone else, and why covering water is one of the most important skills in fishing.He also tells the truth about what happened to Lake Pontchartrain’s trophy trout, why the fishing was so incredible in the late 1990s, how the MRGO closure changed the entire ecosystem, and what freshwater diversions, Mardi Gras Pass, river levels, hurricanes, and saltwater intrusion are doing to Louisiana’s fisheries.We also get into:• The fishing legends who taught Chas everything• The early days of Matrix Shad• Pouring prototype baits one at a time• Why Lemonhead became one of the most successful colors ever• The biggest mistake most artificial lure fishermen make• Why lure action matters more than tiny color differences• The rise and decline of Lake Pontchartrain trophy trout• Where Chas would target a STAR winning speckled trout• Venice, the Chandeleur Islands, South Pass, and Block 69• Fishing memories that still guide him decades later• The truth about building a successful fishing company• Raising his daughter Blakely in the fishing world• And the wild story of the kids who stole his baitcasting rodsThis is not just the story of Matrix Shad.It is the story of a kid who walked away from baseball, dedicated his life to fishing, and became one of the most respected and influential anglers in Louisiana.Watch the full episode and hear Chas Champagne tell it himself.Subscribe to Louisiana Legends for more conversations with the people who shaped Louisiana fishing.

John Rucker is one of Louisiana's most respected speckled trout anglers, but if you ask him, he'll tell you he's just another fisherman who put in the time. From countless nights fishing the Seabrook Bridge to winning the STAR Tournament and helping popularize what many know as the "Rucker Rig," John shares the stories, lessons, and experiences that shaped him into one of the Gulf Coast's most accomplished trout fishermen.In this episode, we dive into the legendary days of Seabrook, Bayou Bienvenue, Grand Isle, and the Causeway, discussing giant trout, deep water current patterns, the importance of confidence on the water, and the old school anglers who passed down their knowledge. John also shares how fishing helped change the course of his life, why he believes big trout relate to deep water and heavy current, and why he never wanted the "Rucker Rig" named after him.Whether you're a seasoned trout fisherman or just getting started, this conversation is packed with Louisiana fishing history, practical knowledge, and stories you won't hear anywhere else.Topics include:• The story behind the Rucker Rig• Winning the STAR Tournament• Legendary Seabrook trout fishing• Bayou Bienvenue and Grand Isle tactics• Big trout behavior and seasonal patterns• Favorite rods, reels, and tackle• The anglers who influenced John the most• Why fishing changed his lifeIf you enjoy Louisiana fishing history, speckled trout, and learning from the anglers who helped shape our fishery, make sure to like, subscribe, and let us know who you'd like to see on Louisiana Legends next.

When it comes to big speckled trout in Louisiana, Rudy Hall is one of the first names that comes to mind.Rudy has spent decades studying, catching, and learning from trophy trout, and his knowledge has earned him the respect of anglers across the state. He has also been involved with Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries trout studies, helping provide real world insight into where big fish live, how they move, and what makes Louisiana’s fishery so unique.In this episode, Rudy shares stories and knowledge from a lifetime on the water. He talks about trophy trout studies, Venice fishing history, trout migration, river levels, rough water, barrier islands, and why some of the biggest fish are caught in places people never expected.This is not just fishing talk. It is Louisiana trout history straight from someone who lived it.Rudy Hall is a true Louisiana fishing legend, and this episode is packed with the kind of knowledge you only get from decades of experience.

For generations, Louisiana has been known as Sportsman's Paradise. But according to veteran Calcasieu guide Jeremy Waltrip, that title is slipping away.In this episode of the Louisiana Legends Podcast, Jeremy joins us for an honest conversation about the current state of Louisiana's fisheries and the challenges he believes are reshaping one of the state's most iconic estuaries.We discuss the effects of increasing LNG ship traffic, shoreline erosion, damage to natural oyster reefs, changes in fish behavior, trout regulations, fisheries sampling methods, and why Jeremy believes a one size fits all approach to fisheries management is not working for every region of the Louisiana coast.Jeremy also shares his thoughts on why he believes the current monitoring system needs to evolve with the fishery, how management decisions impact everyday anglers, and what he thinks needs to change to protect the future of Louisiana fishing.Whether you agree with Jeremy's perspective or not, this episode raises important questions about conservation, fisheries management, and the future of the waters so many of us grew up fishing.Let us know your thoughts in the comments. Have you noticed changes in Louisiana's fisheries over the years? What do you think should happen moving forward?If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with your fishing buddies. Every share helps us continue telling the stories that matter to Louisiana outdoorsmen.

On this episode of the Louisiana Legends Podcast, we sit down with Captain Paul Miller, one of the Gulf Coast's most respected offshore captains.Paul guides out of both Mississippi and Venice, Louisiana, and many of you probably know him from Captain Pauly's Podcast, formerly known as Tuna Town Talks.Paul has become a tremendous resource for the fishing community because he's always willing to share what he's learned. In an industry where many people guard their knowledge, Paul genuinely enjoys teaching others just as much as he enjoys putting clients on fish.We talk about offshore fishing, guiding, building a successful charter business content creation, and the lessons he's learned along the way. More than anything, this conversation highlights why so many people enjoy fishing with Paul. He puts the customer experience first, takes pride in helping others become better anglers, and is simply an authentic, down to earth guy.Whether you're an experienced offshore fisherman or just getting started, you're going to enjoy this one.

Chris Bush is widely regarded as one of the best speckled trout anglers on the Gulf Coast, and in this episode, he lives up to the reputation. From Louisiana roots to Texas waters, Chris has built a name chasing big trout and backing it up with results.We get into what actually goes into targeting trophy specks, the mindset behind consistently finding big fish, and why conservation is more important now than ever. Chris shares his philosophy, “take what you need and release the rest,” and explains how that approach has shaped both his success and his impact on the fishery.As the voice behind The Speckled Truth, Chris doesn’t just talk about fishing, he challenges the way anglers think about it.If you care about catching big trout and making sure they’re still here years from now, this is one you need to hear.

Brett Gerchow was born without legs… but you’d never know it watching him on the water.His attitude, determination, and ability to fish with the best of them sets him apart in every way. Brett doesn’t ask for anything — he just shows up and gets it done.In this episode, we talk about:His journey and mindsetHow he approaches fishingThe challenges he’s faced and overcomeWhy attitude is everythingThis isn’t just a fishing conversation… it’s a perspective shift.Brett proves that limits are usually self-imposed.

Ty Hibbs is one of the most respected names in Louisiana inshore fishing — not just because of what he’s caught, but because of what he stands for.With years of experience and more fish than most could imagine, Ty has shifted his focus to something bigger… conservation and the future of our fishery.In this episode, we dive into:The current state of Louisiana fishingWhy conservation matters now more than everWhat needs to change to revive our watersLessons from a lifetime on the waterTy doesn’t just talk about it — he’s lived it.If you care about the future of Louisiana fishing, this is a conversation you need to hear.

Chris Macaluso — better known as “C-Mac” — is one of the most passionate and knowledgeable anglers in Louisiana. When it comes to our fishery, there’s nobody bringing more insight, more experience, and more facts to the table.In this episode, we dive deep into the real issues impacting Louisiana waters:Freshwater diversionsDredging and restorationThe menhaden industryHis personal fishing successC-Mac doesn’t deal in opinions alone — he backs everything up with science, data, and years of firsthand experience on the water.This is one of those conversations that just makes sense when you hear it.If you care about the future of Louisiana fishing, this is a must-watch.

Nathan brought in his brothers and cousins from Alabama… and it turned into exactly what you’d expect.This episode is a mix of fishing, back home stories, and what happens when Alabama anglers come down to Louisiana waters. From different styles and mindsets to the realities of fishing both places, there’s plenty to unpack.And of course… plenty of trash talk.If you’ve ever fished with family or buddies, you already know how this goes. Nothing but laughs, stories, and a little bit of chaos along the way.

Josh Adams — better known as “Westbank Josh” — is a recreational angler out of Marrero, Louisiana and a proud LAFB member. Known by many as the “King of Lafitte,” Josh has built his reputation the only way that matters… time on the water.In this episode, we dive into what makes the Lafitte area so unique, how Josh approaches fishing it, and the mindset it takes to consistently find fish in South Louisiana. From dialing in patterns to learning the hard way, Josh shares the kind of insight that only comes from putting in the hours.We also get into the stories — the good, the bad, and the ones every local angler can relate to.If you fish Louisiana, this is one you don’t want to miss.

Jon Miller built his name by putting his process on display.Through his YouTube videos, he’s shown a different side of fishing… one that’s rooted in discipline, observation, and calculated decision making. Jon doesn’t rely on luck. He studies fish behavior, tracks seasonal patterns, and forms his own hypotheses on why fish do what they do.In this episode, we break down his technical approach to targeting big trout and what it takes to stay consistent when conditions change. From understanding weather and water movement to dialing in repeatable patterns, Jon treats fishing like a system that can be studied, tested, and refined.Calm, methodical, and always in control, Jon represents a different level of thinking on the water.If you’ve ever wanted to truly understand the “why” behind catching fish, this is one you don’t skip.Topics include:• Big trout behavior and patterning• Seasonal trends and environmental factors• Building your own fishing hypotheses• Eliminating guesswork on the water• Developing a repeatable systemNew episodes weekly. Stay Legendary.

Harold Wilcox is a legend, plain and simple.Originally from Tennessee, Harold made his mark fishing the rich waters of Venice, Louisiana, where he’s built a reputation for consistently catching big trout the old-school way… on foot.In this episode, Harold shares the mindset, patience, and instincts it takes to target trophy fish while wade fishing. This isn’t run-and-gun fishing. It’s calculated, disciplined, and rooted in years of experience on the water.Beyond the tactics, Harold brings something rare to the table. Wisdom, stories, and a presence that makes you want to sit back and just listen. He’s the kind of guy who’s forgotten more about fishing than most people will ever learn.If you care about big trout, or just appreciate hearing from someone who’s truly lived it, this is one you don’t skip.Topics include:• Wade fishing for trophy trout• Venice, LA fishing patterns• Patience and positioning on the water• Lessons learned over decades• Stories from a life spent chasing fishNew episodes weekly.Stay Legendary.

Ty Hillman of Marshes & Hills isn’t just another voice in the Louisiana fishing scene, he’s one of the most respected anglers in the game.In this episode, we sit down with Ty to break down how he consistently finds and catches fish in some of the most pressured waters in the state. From reading conditions and dialing in patterns to adapting when everything falls apart, this is a deep dive into what actually separates average anglers from the ones who stay on fish.We get into real marsh tactics, decision making on the water, and how Ty approaches fishing when the easy bite disappears. No fluff, no recycled tips, just experience earned the hard way.If you fish Louisiana waters, this one will make you better.

Justin Bowles isn’t loud. He doesn’t chase attention. He just catches fish… a lot of them.A Lake Pontchartrain guide with deep roots, Justin cut his teeth fishing the Causeway, dialing in patterns and learning the system the hard way. Mentored by the legendary Sam Barbera, he developed a style built on instinct, precision, and consistency.He’s not the guy talking the most in the room… he’s the one quietly putting fish in the boat.In this episode of Louisiana Legends, we dive into:• How Justin mastered the Causeway bite• Lessons learned from Sam Barbera• What separates average anglers from elite ones• His approach to consistently finding fish on Lake Pontchartrain• Why being “quiet” might actually make you more dangerous on the waterIf you know, you know… and if you don’t, you’re about to.Like, Subscribe, and Hit the Bell to stay up to date with more Louisiana Legends.Stay Legendary.

Danny Hunter has exploded onto the Lake Pontchartrain fishing scene and built a reputation faster than most guys ever do.He’s not the type of guide glued to waypoints or yesterday’s reports. Danny fishes off feel. Off instinct. Off reading the water in real time and trusting his decisions when it matters most.In this episode, we break down how he’s been able to rise so quickly, what separates him from the average guide, and why his style of fishing consistently puts clients on fish.If you fish South Louisiana, this one will hit home.Like, subscribe, and hit the bell so you don’t miss future episodes.Stay Legendary.

Drew Necaise is a lifelong Louisiana angler and proud member of LAFB, with years of experience on the water and a deep understanding of how to consistently catch fish in South Louisiana.He’s not a guide, just a hardcore recreational fisherman who’s put in the time, learned the patterns, and built a serious knowledge base from real days on the water.In this episode, we dive into Drew’s story, his approach to fishing, and one of the wildest situations an angler can find himself in… breaking down in the Biloxi Marsh and having to spend the night out there.We get into:• How Drew developed his fishing knowledge over the years• Lessons learned from countless days on the water• What separates good anglers from great ones• The reality of fishing the Biloxi Marsh• His story of getting stranded overnightIf you fish Louisiana, this episode is packed with real experience and hard-earned insight.Like, subscribe, and hit the bell so you don’t miss future episodes.Stay Legendary.

In this episode, we sit down with Ben LaVergne — a former pro-level golfer turned full-blown Louisiana outdoorsman who somehow manages to be just as dangerous with a fishing rod as he was with a golf club.Ben’s not just a fisherman… he’s a swamp tour guide, storyteller, and one of the most entertaining guys you’ll ever be around. The kind of dude that can make you laugh your ass off one minute and then casually drop real-deal knowledge about fishing, the marsh, and how to actually catch fish the next.We dive into:• His transition from competitive golf to life on the water• What it really takes to be a top-tier angler in Louisiana• Wild stories from guiding in the swamp• Fishing tactics, patterns, and mindset• And plenty of laughs along the wayIf you like real people, real stories, and real fishing, this one’s for you.

Meet Justin Bordelon: the Seabrook Angler King.Edgy. Controversial. Unapologetically himself.This is the guy who doesn’t just fish… he rewrites what’s possible on the water. A straight-up slayer of fish whose instincts are so dialed in, you’d think he’s being studied in a lab somewhere (honestly, he probably should be).But behind the reputation, the hot takes, and the results? He’s genuinely a good dude. The kind of guy who’ll outfish you all day, then turn around and tell you exactly how he did it.In this episode, we sit down with Justin to talk mindset, patterns, pressure, and what it really takes to stay on top when everyone’s watching—and judging.If you like your fishing talk raw, real, and a little controversial… this one’s for you.

Boyce and Nathan kick things off at Waffle House with Southeast Louisiana legends Stanley Fink and Rudy Lightell before they embark on their fishing trip. Known as Team JoJo, this iconic duo shares stories, laughs, and the mindset that’s made them one of the most respected names in local fishing. Join us as we talk Silverwonders and Red Warriors with Team JoJo.

In this episode, we sit down with Daniel Kelly, a 21 year old angler who has exploded onto the Louisiana fishing scene in a very short amount of time. What makes his story even more impressive is that Daniel has only been seriously fishing for a couple of years, yet he has already built a reputation for consistently catching fish and figuring things out faster than most.We talk about how Daniel got started, the learning curve of jumping into Louisiana’s complex fisheries, and what he has done differently to accelerate his success. From early mistakes to breakthrough moments on the water, Daniel shares the mindset, tactics, and experiences that helped him go from beginner to a recognized young angler.If you're new to fishing, trying to improve your skills, or just enjoy hearing how hungry young anglers are making a name for themselves, this episode is packed with insight, stories, and plenty of laughs.

Frank Lee has a PHD in neuroscience, but you could also say he has a PHD in fishing Port Sulphur. Frank is a recreational angler who brings a unique approach to the table when targeting Speckled Trout and Redfish. Join Nathan and Boyce for this treat of an episode with Frank Lee.

Louisiana Legends was created for guys like Will Grand. Will is a young, up and coming angler who consistently puts on a clinic of how to catch Speckled Trout across Louisiana's Coast. Join us as we dive into the mind and tactics that Will Grand employs out on the water.

Landry Kirk: Louisiana Native, Gulf Coast Angler, Tally Ho Club Member, and phenomenal story teller. Nathan and Boyce sit down with Landry and discuss all things fishing.

There isn't a more fitting person to lead off this podcast than Cliff Hall. Cliff is that quiet killer this show was based around. Cliff brings a humble mindset with a technical approach to catching big Speckled Trout. Join us as we kick off this adventure with this Louisiana Legend.