MERCER-The Awkwardly Honest Fishing Podcast

Forward-facing sonar is right up there with politics and religion as a topic you’re probably better off not bringing up… so naturally, we’re talking about it.This week on the MERCER Podcast, three different pro anglers with three very different perspectives weigh in on one of the biggest questions in professional bass fishing:Did Bassmaster’s split forward-facing sonar schedule actually work?Greg Hackney, Mike Iaconelli and Kyle Patrick give their opinions on how the season played out, what worked, what didn’t, and whether splitting the schedule between events with and without forward-facing sonar accomplished what Bassmaster hoped it would.Did it create a more balanced playing field? Did it make the competition better? Did it prove anything at all? And most importantly—is this the format Bassmaster should stick with moving forward?Three pros. Three perspectives. One topic that bass fishing just can’t stop arguing about.Forward-facing sonar: did the split season work?

With just two Bassmaster Elite Series events remaining, Trey McKinney is once again right where he’s been knocking on the door for the last two seasons — in the hunt for Bassmaster Angler of the Year. But this time, he’s the one everyone is chasing.After finishing 2nd in AOY in each of his first two Elite Series seasons, Trey enters the final stretch leading the race and with a chance to finally finish the job.This week on the Mercer Podcast, Trey talks about the pressure of leading AOY, what he’s learned from coming so close the last two years, and what it will take to close it out.However we don’t avoid the tough stuff.Does Trey get help from locals to find fishing spots? How does he handle the rumors, criticism and scrutiny that come with being one of the most successful young anglers in the sport? And does any of that noise actually get to him?With two tournaments left and everything on the line, Trey McKinney answers the tough questions.

During one of his best seasons ever 3 time Bassmaster winner Cory Johnston sits just two events and 1 angler away from capturing the coveted Bassmaster Angler of the Year title. But with all that success has come an unexpected conversation—some anglers close to home even think that he should be banned.This week Cory swings by for a face-to-face honest conversation about an incredible season, the pressure of the AOY race, and what it’s really like competing at the highest level of professional bass fishing.Whether you’re following the AOY race or just love hearing the stories behind professional fishing, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

This week, Jake’s Take returns—and this one might be the most powerful yet.Bassmaster videographer Jake Latendresse has spent years behind the camera, capturing some of the greatest moments in professional bass fishing. But this episode isn’t about the biggest catches or the biggest trophies. It’s about the moments that meant the most.Jake counts down the five most emotional stories he has ever filmed during a Bassmaster event, sharing the behind-the-scenes details and personal memories that viewers never got to hear.From Lee Livesay’s unforgettable triumph, to Jason Christie’s raw emotion, Brandon Palaniuk’s incredible perseverance, Brandon Cobb’s shocking hook set, Takumi Ito’s inspiring journey, and Drew Cook’s unforgettable sight fishing moments —these are the stories that remind us that fishing is about so much more than just winning tournaments.If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to witness history through the lens of a camera, this episode gives you a front-row seat. Honest, emotional, funny, and full of incredible storytelling, Jake once again takes us behind the scenes of the biggest moments in Bassmaster history.If you love the people behind the sport as much as the competition itself, you won’t want to miss this one.

Fishing has changed—and keeping a secret might be harder than ever. This week on the Mercer Podcast, Bassmaster Elite Series Pro and Forrest Wood Cup Champion Justin Atkins joins us for a VERY honest, wide-ranging conversation about what it’s really like to chase a career in professional fishing.We dive into whether fishing secrets still exist in the age of social media and instant information sharing. Has it become impossible to keep a productive pattern, a winning bait, or a special spot under wraps?But that’s just the beginning.Justin opens up about the financial risks of chasing a childhood dream, what it takes to survive on tour, his relentless desire to win, and the sacrifices that come with making professional fishing your career. Along the way, the conversation takes plenty of unexpected turns—including hilarious tour stories, embarrassing moments, life on the road, and the realities that fans rarely get to hear.It’s funny, honest, and full of the kind of behind-the-scenes stories that only happen when two friends who love the sport sit down and have a real conversation.If you’re passionate about bass fishing, tournament competition, or just love hearing the stories behind the anglers, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

The legendary Rick Clunn has always seen fishing differently than everyone else, and this conversation is no exception.It starts with the shocking quote, “Urchin baits turn me on” to a fascinating discussion about why the latest bait craze has captured anglers’ attention, Rick shares his unique perspective on what makes a lure truly special—and why history has a way of repeating itself.We dive into the current Urchin bait phenomenon, compare it to some of the biggest lure crazes of the past, and explore how innovation continues to shape the sport. Along the way, Rick reflects on life after professional tournament fishing, how he’s adjusted to stepping away from competition, and what still fuels his passion for bass fishing every single day.As always, Clunn-clusion is a conversation that goes far beyond fishing techniques. It’s about curiosity, perspective, and seeing the sport through the eyes of one of the greatest anglers of all time.

For most anglers, confidence comes and goes. For Kyle Patrick, it took getting literally slapped out of a slump during Mercer in the Morning to turn everything around.This week on The Mercer Podcast, Dave sits down with the two-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier and Bassmaster Open winner for one of the most honest conversations you’ll hear all season.Kyle opens up about the mental side of professional fishing, battling through tough stretches, rebuilding confidence, and why one unexpected moment became the reset he didn’t know he needed.But that’s just the beginning.The conversation dives into what it really takes to compete at the highest level of the sport, chasing a Bassmaster Classic title, handling the pressure of tournament fishing, the evolution of modern bass fishing, and the lessons that only come from living life on the road.It’s funny, authentic, insightful, and packed with the kind of stories you only get when the cameras stop rolling… or when someone decides the best cure for a slump is an open-handed slap.Whether you’re a tournament angler, a weekend fisherman, or simply love hearing what drives elite competitors, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

What really happens behind the scenes at the Bassmaster Elite Series?This week on the Mercer Podcast, Bassmaster videographer Jake Latendresse returns with another edition of Jake’s Take—the ultimate behind-the-scenes look at life on the Bassmaster Elite Series.Jake takes us onto the back deck of Jason Christie’s boat during his historic 10th Bassmaster victory on the Pasquotank River, sharing stories and moments the cameras never showed. He also makes a shocking announcement, relives the unforgettable moment he took a seagull to the face during the tournament, and counts down the Top 5 craziest on-the-water accidents and bloopers he’s witnessed while filming the biggest names in professional bass fishing.If you’ve ever wondered what really happens when Bassmaster LIVE isn’t rolling, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Carl Jocumsen is one of the most passionate anglers in professional fishing… but this time he’s fired up.Carl is PISSED… and he’s finally ready to talk about it.On this episode of the Mercer Podcast, Carl opens up about what’s frustrating him, why he believes some things need to change, and the ever-evolving world of tournament bass fishing. From new rules and the future of the sport to the challenges professional anglers face, Carl doesn’t hold back.But this conversation isn’t just about fishing — it’s about making a difference.Carl also shares the incredible story behind the Fear My Heart Worldwide Lake Clean Up, a movement he created to bring anglers together, protect our fisheries, and leave this world better than we found it.Passion. Frustration. Change. Positivity.This is Carl Jocumsen like you’ve never heard him before.

Jason Christie is back on The Mercer podcast hot off his second Elite Series victory of the season and his 10th Bassmaster win, Christie continues to prove why he is one of the greatest anglers to ever do it.But what separates a 10-time champion from everyone else? In this episode, Jason opens up about the mindset, confidence, preparation, and instincts that have made him one of the most consistent winners in professional bass fishing. From handling pressure, hating losing, making the right decisions on the water, and finding a way to win when everything is on the line — this is a rare look inside the mind of Jason Christie. We also break down the winning bait that is dominating pro bass fishing. The Coike or Urchin style bait and why it has become such a powerful tool in Christie’s arsenal. Jason shares what makes this bait so effective, how he approaches fishing it, and why it continues to produce when the pressure is at its highest.Plus, we dive into the stories behind another incredible season, what keeps him hungry after all these years, and why the best may still be yet to come.This is Jason Christie: Inside the Mind of a 10-Time Bassmaster Champion.

Some anglers blame the weather. Some blame the fish. Some blame everything around them. But according to Dakota Ebare… grumpy anglers don’t catch fish.This week on the Mercer Podcast, Dakota Ebare dives deep into the mental side of fishing and why staying positive under pressure might be one of the biggest keys to success. It’s a mindset that has currently helped him climb all the way to 3rd place in the Bassmaster Angler of the Year race.Dakota also gets real about:-constantly changing debate around tournament rules-The hottest new baits & techniques catching fish right now- Why confidence and attitude matter more than most anglers realize.But that’s not all…Former Bassmaster champion and ABC’s Bachelor Byron Velvick joins us for another edition of Byron’s Bunker — and he shares a never-before-told story about the unbelievable things professional anglers sometimes have to overcome on the water.Fishing, stories, laughs and a reminder that sometimes the biggest battle isn’t with the bass… it’s between your ears.

Ben Milliken returns to this week’s Mercer Podcast for a wide-open conversation about the highs, lows and everything in between. From building one of the biggest followings in fishing, to chasing his dream on the Bassmaster Elite Series, Ben’s journey has been anything but ordinary. In this episode, he opens up about his legal problems in Texas, the challenges and lessons learned from his time competing against the best anglers in the world, and what life looks like after Bassmaster. But that’s not all… we also take a dive deep into the future of fishing, his insane new property “The Fantasy Farm” and the one bait Ben believes could be the greatest bait ever made for catching a bass.Ben Milliken has changed the fishing world and he has done it by being real, relatable and honest. So when Ben shows up, the Awkwardly Honest Fishing Podcast gets a lot more honest and even more awkward!

What really happens behind the scenes at the Bassmaster Elite Series?This week on the Mercer Podcast, Bassmaster videographer Jake Latendresse returns with another edition of Jake’s Take — the ultimate Bassmaster behind-the-scenes segment. Jake takes us inside the action from the back deck of Brandon Palaniuk’s boat during the Santee Cooper Elite Series event and gives an up-close look at life inside Tristan McCormick’s boat during the Wheeler Lake Bassmaster Open.From the chaos you never see on camera… to the little details that separate the best anglers in the world… Jake shares stories and moments only a Bassmaster cameraman gets to witness.But that’s not all…Then we dive head first into the latest craze taking over pro fishing — the Urchin Bait — as Jake reveals his “5 Dirty Urchin Bait Tricks Pros Hide From the Camera.”The sneaky retrieves.
The hidden modifications.
The little tricks anglers don’t want competitors noticing.If you love Bassmaster behind-the-scenes stories, tournament insight, and awkwardly honest fishing talk… this episode is loaded to the gills!

Two champions on one show, is it even possible? Well, hell ya! This is the Mercer Podcast! In episode #263 Dave sits down with two of the hottest anglers in professional bass fishing-the two most recent Bassmaster Elite Series champions and talk winning stories, real talk, and some stuff nobody expected to talk about. Fresh off of his win at Lake Murray, Surge Squad member Paul Marks joins the show to break down the victory, the momentum, and what life is like away from the tour. Including a surprise visit from fellow Surge Squader Andrew Loberg. Then, back-to-back Bassmaster Angler of the Year Chris Johnston joins the show hot off of his Santee Cooper victory to talk confidence, consistency, and what it really takes to stay at the top of the sport.Two winners. Two completely different journeys. One Mercer podcast.

What happens when a guy sneaks into the Bassmaster Classic… and suddenly becomes one of the most talked-about people at the event ?In this absolutely wild episode, internet superstar Buddy Jaron joins Mercer to tell the unbelievable behind-the-scenes story of how he infiltrated the Bassmaster Classic and somehow became the legendary “Boat 26.” From awkward encounters and security close calls to the madness that unfolded once anglers and fans realized who he was, Buddy Jaron breaks down every hilarious detail from inside the biggest event in fishing.But that’s just the beginning…Jaron also dives deep into the wonderfully chaotic world inside his mind with stories, opinions, adventures, and the kind of unpredictable moments that only Buddy Jaron can deliver.Then former Bassmaster winner, ABC’s The Bachelor alum, returns with Byron’s Bunker, Byron Velvick joins the show and regales us with stories from his journey through professional fishing. From sleeping in a legendary Astro Van just for a shot at competing in the big leagues… to the sacrifices, struggles, and unforgettable moments that shaped his career — Byron proves why he’s one of the most unique personalities the sport has ever seen.This episode is funny, weird, inspiring, completely unfiltered… and somehow only gets crazier as it goes.If you love fishing, comedy, behind-the-scenes stories, and pure chaos… this one is mandatory listening.

Some anglers want attention… 2 time Bassmaster Elite champion Takumi Ito wants some stuff to stay secret.In this episode of the Mercer Podcast, Takumi Ito opens up like never before about the baits he refuses to show anyone, the strategy behind keeping secrets at the highest level, and why some techniques are better left unseen.But this conversation goes way deeper than tackle…Takumi talks about:• The hidden baits and patterns he protects from the fishing world • How he has evolved as an angler since coming to America • Which Bassmaster Elite angler is the most intimidating to compete against • Top Golf = Good Times • What his dream retirement actually looks like • And the mindset it takes to survive at the top level of professional fishing From serious strategy to completely unexpected moments, this is Takumi Ito unfiltered — funny, honest, and full of insight you normally never hear.If you love bass fishing, behind-the-scenes tour talk, secret baits, and real conversations with the biggest names in the sport… this episode is for you.

What do pro anglers really say when the cameras are off?In this episode, 4-time Bassmaster champion Lee Livesay joins Mercer for a completely unfiltered conversation—no notes, no prep, and nothing off limits.From the rules shaping today’s tournaments to the rise of AI in fishing, Livesay opens up about where the sport is headed… and what’s really being said behind the scenes.We get into:   •   The real conversations happening behind the scenes   •   How rules & technology are changing the game   •   The truth about fishing Lake Fork and the “Fork Factor”   •   The topics every angler wants to talk about—but usually won’t   •   And why Livesay continues to perform at the highest levelLee has always called it like he sees it—and this episode is no different: honest, raw, and straight up.If you love real talk, big bass, and the truth about where fishing is going… this one’s for you.

Some of this...wasn't supposed to be said.Bassmaster videographer Jake Latendresse is back with another Jake's Take - and this time, he's pulling back the curtain on what really happens behind the scenes at the highest level of professional fishing.The moments you don't see on TV and the reactions anglers hope never get caught.Jake is around it all - the wins, the pressure, the awkward moments...and everything in between. And now, he's breaking down his Top 5 Things Pro Anglers Don't Want You Seeing. Some are hilarious.Some are uncomfortable.And a few...might surprise you.

What happens when some of the best anglers on the planet ditch the script… and go back to where it all started?In this GGGiant episode of the Mercer Podcast, we’ve got an absolute all-star lineup:Mark Zona, Jason Christie, Mike Iaconelli, Chris Johnston, Drew Benton, Kyle Welcher, Drew Cook, Bryan New & Kyle Patrick And yeah… they’re definitely up to something.We break down “Tuesday Night Live” — a brand new, no-BS, throwback tournament where these Elite pros split into 2-man teams and battle it out in a 3-hour shootout inspired by the old-school weeknight derbies they grew up on.No fluff. No filters. Just:• Big bites• Fast decisions• Real pressure• And a whole lot of friendly trash talk This is fishing stripped down to its roots — where instincts take over, egos get tested, and anything can happen in 3 hours.The best part is you can catch it all LIVE on April 21st, as Tuesday Night Live goes down in real time on Bassmaster.com, YouTube & Roku— with unfiltered & often unhinged play-by-play from Mark Zona and Dave Mercer. You do NOT want to miss this.But first they all join the podcast to met their partners & make predictions in a free for all of fishing smack talk & story telling.

Fresh off his 9th Bassmaster win, Jason Christie sits down for one of his most honest conversations yet.This isn’t just about another trophy.Christie opens up about how bad breaks can turn into winning moments, the mindset it takes to survive the grind, and why sometimes the worst days on the water lead to the biggest victories.We also dive into what it really feels like when Championship Sunday hits—and why Christie has become one of the most dangerous closers in professional fishing. Plus… the stuff anglers don’t always admit:   •   The superstitions he actually believes in   •   The role of confidence when everything is on the line   •   The mental switch that separates contenders from champions   •   And the grey area of competition… including anglers pushing boundaries on “unwritten rules”—like following or spying on the live release boat. No fluff. No filter. Just Jason Christie being brutally honest about winning, losing, and everything in between.

The questions weren’t done… so neither is he.Bassmaster Classic Champion Dylan Nutt returns to the Mercer Podcast — and this time, nothing is off limits. More answers, more truth, and the follow-up everyone’s been waiting for.Then it gets CRAZY…For the first time ever, we go inside Berkley Labs for a world exclusive. Scientist Mark Sexton and product manager Nathan Ragsdale break down exactly what the Berkley Lab Series is… and how it played a role in winning the Bassmaster Classic.And then… a moment you won’t forget.4-time Classic Champion Rick Clunn delivers one of the most honest, raw, and moving conversations we’ve ever had on this show.We close it out with Jake’s Take — the ultimate behind-the-scenes look at Bassmaster with videographer Jake Latendresse, who’s been in the boat for the moments you didn’t see.This one has EVERYTHING — champions, secrets, science, and stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

Dylan Nutt is fresh off his historic Bassmaster Classic win—and for the first time, he’s finally revealing the bait that made it all happen.In this exclusive conversation, Dylan breaks down the exact setup, how he used it, and why it was the difference-maker when the pressure was at its highest. No fluff. No holding back.We also dive into:• The moment he predicted winning the Classic• Outworking the field • Hiding from the media • On the water gamesmanship no one saw behind the scenesThis is the real story behind the win—and the bait everyone’s been trying to figure out.

In this rare and revealing episode of the Mercer Podcast, former Bassmaster Tournament Director Trip Weldon sits down for one of his most candid conversations ever.Trip pulls back the curtain on the real pressure behind the scenes — the judgment calls that fans never see, the decisions that can change careers, and the moments that kept him up at night. From tournament controversies to rule violations that shook the sport, he explains what it’s like being the man forced to make the toughest calls in professional fishing.But this isn’t just a look back.Trip also shares his personal perspective on some of today’s biggest challenges in tournament bass fishing — including evolving technology, and how the sport is changing for future generations of anglers.Honest. Direct. No script. No safe answers.Just the stories and decisions that shaped modern competitive bass fishing.If you’ve ever wondered what really happens behind the weigh-in stage, this is an episode you can’t miss.For more Facts of Fishing visit http://factsoffishing.com/

Seth Feider is headed back to the Bassmaster Classic, and he’s doing it the only way he knows how… his way.In this episode of Mercer: The Awkwardly Honest Fishing Podcast, Seth sits down to talk about his big return to the Classic, lucky underwear & winning the Dirt Derby. But that’s just the start.Feider also reveals one of the strangest and least-known quirks in professional bass fishing… the fact that he literally shakes the morning of tournaments when he’s about to catch them. Not nerves. Not fear. Something else entirely.We also get into:   •   His mindset heading into the Bassmaster Classic   •   What separates instinct anglers from electronics anglers   •   Classic prep and pressure • The presentation of the most unique trophy in history    •   A few classic Feider stories you definitely won’t hear anywhere elseIf you like real talk, behind-the-scenes stories, and the kind of honesty only Seth Feider delivers… this one’s for you.

Four-time Bassmaster Classic champion Rick Clunn joins the Mercer Podcast alongside longtime Bassmaster cameraman Jake Latendresse for Clunn-Clusion & Jake’s Take with a behind-the-scenes breakdown of the first two Bassmaster Elite Series events of the season & a Bassmaster Classic preview. What really happened on the water?From momentum shifts and decision-making under pressure… to what fans didn’t see on camera… Rick and Jake give two completely different vantage points — legendary competitor and trusted insider.

For this special 250th edition of the Mercer Podcast, we brought in two men who know exactly what it feels like to hoist the trophy on bass fishing’s biggest stage — the two most recent Bassmaster Elite Series champions:🏆 Hank Cherry🏆 Fisher AnayaTwo champions. Two generations. Two very different paths to the top.In this milestone episode, we go beyond the winning moments and into the mindset it takes to survive — and thrive — at the highest level of professional bass fishing. Hank talks legacy, pressure, and what it really means to be a multiple-time champion. Fisher opens up about the new wave, confidence under the lights, and what it’s like carrying momentum in a sport that’s changing fast.We dive into:   •   What separates champions from contenders   •   The mental toll of Elite-level competition   •   Old school instinct vs. modern tech   •   The moment they knew they had it won   •   And what’s next after the confetti fallsIt’s honest. It’s competitive. It’s reflective.And it’s exactly what Episode 250 should be.Thank you for being part of the ride to 250.Let’s get to 300. 🎙️🔥

Arrested in Thailand.Thrown in a jail cell with the Googan Squad. And that’s just one of the many stories that get revealed. In this episode of the Mercer Podcast, Sam Sobi goes way beyond fishing. We talk about the dreams that built him, the setbacks that tested him, giant bass, bugling elk, true love… and the moments that shaped him But first we have the return of Jake’s Take. Bassmaster videographer Jake Latendresse breaks down what really happened behind the scenes from inside the boat with eventual champion Hank Cherry, Trey McKinney, Bryant Smith, and Hunter Shryock. If you love the Elite Series but wish you could hear the stuff that never makes TV — this is it. Raw stories. Real laughs. Zero script & as always awkwardly honest!

This is a real and raw conversation with Mike Iaconelli, one of the most iconic and influential anglers the sport has ever seen.In this episode, Ike looks back on the full arc of his career — the wins that defined him, the losses that shaped him, and the moments that forced him to grow. He opens up about how his mindset has evolved over time, especially as the sport continues to change and a new generation of young, fearless anglers invade the tour.This isn’t a highlight reel or a history lesson — it’s a conversation about evolution, perspective, and what it really means to stay relevant in a sport that never stops moving.However, make no mistake-Ike still Never Gives Up!

Matty Wong doesn’t hold back.In this episode of The Awkwardly Honest Fishing Podcast, Matty opens up about getting cut, the on-the-water confrontations no one talks about — including the day another pro completely lost it on him — and where he really stands with professional fishing today.No sugarcoating. No PR answers. Just real stories about pressure, ego, conflict, and what happens when the cameras aren’t rolling.If you’ve ever wondered what life is actually like behind the scenes of pro fishing… this one’s for you.

No rundown. No prep. No safety net.Just Mark Zona doing what he does best—telling it exactly like it is.In this unfiltered, unscripted conversation, Zona dives headfirst into the real state of pro fishing, the stuff everyone talks about off camera, and why he still loves this sport as much as ever. No notes. No plan. And absolutely no apologies.Expect raw opinions, sharp humor, and classic Zona honesty as he breaks down:   •   The current state of professional bass fishing   •   Forward-facing sonar and where the sport is headed   •   Overused buzzwords and tired narratives   •   His favorite pros to watch (and why)   •   Why passion—not polish—still mattersThis is a real conversation with one of the most recognizable voices in the game. This is Zona Unfiltered, No Notes, No Plan & No Apologies

What does it really take to build a fishing prodigy?On this episode of the Mercer Podcast , Brandon Palaniuk looks back at his own rise—and then flips the script. We reverse-engineer the process, breaking down the mindset, discipline, support system, and decisions required to build the next generation of elite anglers.Brandon dives into his personal history, the lessons learned the hard way, and how today’s young anglers face a completely different path than he did. We also get into the new Bassmaster rules, how they impact competition, and what they mean for the future of the sport.Plus, Brandon discusses his new leadership role as President of the Association of Bassmaster Anglers Professionals sharing his vision, priorities, and what anglers should expect moving forward.This is an awkwardly honest conversation about legacy, leadership, and how prodigies are actually made.

What happens when tournament fishing meets new knees, old pain, and zero filter?Gerald Swindle delivers exactly what fans expect—pain, punchlines, and brutal honesty.In this episode, Swindle opens up about knee surgery, the grind of rehab, and what it really takes to keep competing at the highest level while your body is screaming at you. From fishing through pain to adapting to new rules on tour, he doesn’t sugarcoat a thing. Along the way, he shares the kind of behind-the-scenes stories, laughs, and perspective that only come from decades on the water.This is Gerald Swindle; Pain, Punchlines & the Truth About Getting Older on Tour.

Jason Christie hates losing.And in this episode of Mercer: The Awkwardly Honest Fishing Podcast, he doesn’t sugarcoat a single thing.Jason sits down with Dave Mercer for a no-filter conversation about the mental obsession of competition, what losing really does to him, and why that edge has defined his career. He also breaks down his new YouTube series, what he’s trying to show fans what cameras usually miss, and how his mindset has evolved over time.The conversation dives into the Bassmaster Forward-Facing Sonar (FFS) rule changes, Jason’s honest take on how they impact competition, and what adjustments anglers are really making behind the scenes. Along the way, Jason shares some of the weirdest things he’s experienced on the water, plus never-told stories from life on tour — including a prank gift from fellow prosThis is Jason Christie unfiltered, honest, and exactly how he is away from the stage and spotlight.If you love real conversations about pro fishing, competition, and the mental side of the sport — this episode delivers.But that’s not all, then we are joined by legendary Bassmaster host Tommy Sanders for his annual reading of The Night Before Christmas. A holiday tradition like no other.

On this episode of Mercer : The Awkwardly Honest Fishing Podcast, Dave Mercer sits down with the greatest angler of all time—Kevin VanDam—for one of his most open, honest, and wide-ranging conversations yet.KVD dives deep into the future of professional bass fishing, sharing real, unfiltered thoughts on where the sport is headed, the changes he believes are coming, and what pro fishing must do to keep growing.He also tackles the forward-facing sonar debate head-on, offering his true perspective on how the technology is shaping competition, influencing the next generation, and changing the way anglers think on the water. No politics, no sugarcoating—just Kevin’s authentic take.As always, KVD brings the stories. He reveals behind-the-scenes moments from decades on tour—funny, chaotic, surprising, and honest glimpses into life at the highest level of the sport.Kevin also weighs in on the youth invasion, discussing the hungry new talent shaking up the standings, whether the sport is harder or easier for young anglers today, and what separates the good from the great.And perhaps most revealing of all, he reflects on what it was really like when he was a rookie—the pressure, the learning curve, the mistakes, the moments that fueled him, and the early experiences that forged one of the most dominant careers in fishing history.This is Kevin VanDam unfiltered, real, thoughtful & Awkwardly Honest! A must-listen for every angler, fan, and follower of professional fishing.

Jacob Wheeler is the youngest angler ever to win the All American and the Forrest Wood Cup. He also won the first two Elite Series events he fished. But that was just the start. To date he has won 14 tour level events and he has won 4 out of the last 5 Bass Pro Tour Angler of the Year titles and he is only 35 years old. But it has not always been easy. At one point in his childhood his family literally lost their home. But through that adversity Wheeler learned his endless motivation and tireless work ethic. This week, he joins the podcast and talks about all that plus the future of pro fishing, confidence, career mistakes, building a brand, rookie scars, real life, raw emotion and turning haters into motivators by literally drinking your haters words for breakfast?

Who the heck are these rookies joining the elite series and could they actually be a dream team of anglers?? Well, prepare to get some answers because we have all 10 of them ram-jam packed into this episode. That’s right! We thought it was a good idea to book Fisher Anaya, Russ Lane, Aaron Jagdfeld, Austin Cranford, Sam Hanggi, Matt Messer, Caleb Hudson, Tristan McCormick, Pake South, and Brock Reinkemeyer all on one episode. So kick back, relax and enjoy because only a rookie would miss this episode!

We have an insane episode this week! First we are joined by an 8-time Classic qualifier, a 2-time Bassmaster winner, a 9-time FLW Tour winner, John Cox. Then we have 2-time Classic qualifier, Logan Parks who bring with him a whole cast of characters from his recent NSANE Tournament. The winners, college angler Dalton Head and highschool angler Jackson Watts join in and tell us about their win and fishing the NSANE tournament. Next Logan brings in the winner of his free boat from the same tournament, Jacob Jerrell!  All these guests make this an insane episode as we all talk fishing, slurpies, strange pets, NSANE tournament trends, winners, and all the behind-the-scenes you want to know.  And don't forget to vote MERCER for best podcast!https://bestontour.net/awards/

From the trailer park to the top of the pro fishing world, is the road Matt Robertson has traveled. He has qualified for 5 Bassmaster Classics and won a Bassmaster Open. But maybe more impressive is the loyal legion of fans he attracted along the way. This week he joins the podcast to talk about the frustration of not catching them, getting ripped off, how to catch 'em by not caring, breast milk for bodybuilders and the new Bassmaster rules. Plus, just about everything else because as he puts it “Ain’t nobody else gonna tell you the truth, so I may as well!”

In 1994 Bryan Kerchal became the only Bass Nation angler to ever win the Bassmaster Classic. Since then he has inspired countless Bass Nation anglers to try to do the same. This week we are joined by all three of the newest Bass Nation Classic qualifiers. Bass Nation National Champion Nick Trim, runner up Noah Winslow and 3rd place finisher Dylan Nutt will all fish the 2026 Bassmaster Classic but first they join the podcast to chat about who they are, how they qualified and how they plan to win the Super Bowl of Bass Fishing.

Tripp Berlinsky may just just be the perfect combination of Seth Feider, Shaggy from Scooby-Doo & Spicoli from Fast Times at Ridgemont High. The crazy part is Seth js most likely the only name on that list that Tripp has even heard of! The 20 year old Florida angler is a sophomore at The University of North Alabama. He recently won the Bassmaster Collage Classic bracket punching his ticket to the Super Bowl of bass fishing. This week he joins the podcast and you are not going to believe what this college angler just did!

It did not take Laker Howell, son of Bassmaster Classic champion Randy Howell long to make his own mark in pro fishing. In just his second year of Bassmaster Opens competition Laker doubled-down winning twice and double qualifying for the Bassmaster Classic. This week he joins the podcast to discuss his recent wins, growing up on tour, chasing his dreams and ultimately going from shooting squirrels to hoisting trophies.

At only 24 years old Tucker Smith has been successful at every level of fishing. He is a 3 time Bassmaster High School Champion, a former College Bass Champion, a Bassmaster Elite Series Champion and the reigning Elite Series Rookie of the Year. Before even making the tour, Tucker won a million dollars in the Johnny Morris U.S Open Team tournament. But even with a resume like that, some people try to write off his skills and success to forward facing sonar. But that was before this past weekend when he won half a million dollars winning the Ultimate Angler World Championship on Lake Guntersville where forward facing sonar was not allowed. Now it’s got many folks wondering what the TUCK the haters are going to say about him now???

Todd Castledine does not call himself a professional angler, but with over 50 tournament wins he may be one of the most pure forms of a pro. When he is not competing, Castledine is a bait designer and a YouTuber that is never shy of sharing his opinion. So buckle up because this week he joins the podcast and proves he truly has something to say about EVERYTHING!

My friendship with Emil Wagner started at NASA. Sounds made up but it’s true. Emil is a former All-American Champion, a Bassmaster Classic Qualifier and most recently, the winner of the first Bassmaster EQ event in history. But that’s not his only first. He is also the first and only pro born in Denmark, naturally making him the Great Dane. This week, he joins the podcast to talk about all that and so much more, including our history together at NASA.

Dakota Ebare just wrapped up his first season on the Bassmaster Elite Series and qualified for his first Bassmaster Classic. He is far from a rookie with 2 MLF wins and over a million dollars in earnings. But nobody is immune to challenges in pro angling and Dakota had his share in 2025. This week, the Texas pro joins the podcast for a very real and raw conversation about overcoming the struggles of his rookie season and a recent rules infraction that he self-reported and openly admits he broke the rule, but it leaves him wondering if the is the rule broken. Link to the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame Auction:https://one.bidpal.net/bfhof/browse/all

Some call him Gussy, some know him as the Great Canadian Snow Leopard but if you know him you love him. Jeff Gustafson is a 6-time Classic qualifier, an Elite Series Champion and the 2023 Bassmaster Classic Champion. This week he joins the podcast and talks about his toughest season on tour, the new Bassmaster rules, his future, on the water respect and even though he is widely regarded as one of the true good guys on tour, he still loves a good F-Bomb.

Don’t miss this one, it’s the final Clunn-Clusion & Jake’s Take of the season. 4-time Bassmaster Classic Champion, the legendary Rick Clunn​⁠ returns to the show and shares just a few of his many Clunn-Clusions on the 2025 Bassmaster Elite Series. But that’s not all! We are also joined by Bassmaster videographer, Jake Latendresse with the ultimate Bassmaster behind-the-scenes show, Jake’s Take from the Mississippi River where he shared the boat with Trey McKinney & Tucker Smith.

Roland Martin, Guido Hibdon and Kevin VanDam were the only people in history to ever win back to back Bassmaster Angler of the Year titles until last week, when Chris Johnston joined the club. Chris Johnston took a break from winning tournaments to join the podcast and discuss his historic season, the stress of competition, team fishing, fans, haters and of course his thoughts on the new Bassmaster Forward Facing rules. Some love them, some hate them but either way Chris Johnston does not care, he just wants to fish!

Pat Schlapper is a 5 time classic qualifier, a former Bass Nation National champion and a 2 time Bassmaster Elite Series Champion. Hot off his second Elite Series victory in just a few months, Schlapper joins the podcast and talks about turning his season around by taking notes and kicking Bass!

4-time Bassmaster Classic Champion, the legendary Rick Clunn​⁠ returns to the show and shares just a few of his many Clunn-Clusions on the Angler of the Year race between Chris Johnston and Trey McKinney. But that’s not all! We are also joined by Bassmaster videographer, Jake Latendresse with the ultimate Bassmaster behind-the-scenes show, Jake’s Take from Lake St Clair where he shared the boat with Takumi Ito, Easton Fothergill and Brandon Palaniuk. Wait! There is more - Australian Bassmaster Open pro Tommy Wood stops by to let us know Where in the World is Tommy Wood.