The NJ Multi Species Podcast

Kim Sorg heads offshore on a last-minute bluefin tuna trip and comes home successful! Joe and Kevin recap an incredible day fishing the Fluke Fever Tournament aboard 8 Ball Sportfishing before welcoming Francesca Mundrick of Rewild New Jersey back to discuss conservation, reconnecting people with nature, and the future of New Jersey's outdoor spaces.Later, Jerry Hicks reveals the innovative Santiago System—the first interchangeable multi-species landing net—and NJMS announces Night Mayhem aboard The Gambler, plus updates on Multi Species Mayhem standings, Fast Eddie's fundraiser, and much more.

Joe Santiago and Kim Sorg welcome Weird NJ co-founder Mark Moran for an unforgettable conversation about New Jersey's strangest legends and hidden places.From Clinton Road, Shades of Death Road, Gates of Hell, Wanaque Reservoir UFO sightings, and the Pine Barrens to forgotten fishing holes and abandoned locations across the state, Mark shares decades of stories collected while creating one of New Jersey's most iconic magazines.The episode also features a Fourth of July shark fishing recap, MultiSpecies Mayhem updates, and upcoming NJMSP events.If you love fishing, New Jersey history, folklore, or the unexplained, Episode 156 is one you won't want to miss.Suffer For The Fish!

Acclaimed fishing author Stephen Sautner joins the NJ Multi Species Podcast to discuss his latest book, Every Cast, along with decades of fishing adventures across New Jersey and the Catskills.We cover surf blitzes, trout streams, conservation, writing about fishing, bluefish, shad, striped bass, the current offshore tuna bite, Multi Species Mayhem updates, The Gambler report, and much more.If you love fishing stories as much as fishing itself, this episode is for you.Suffer For The Fish!

Captain Cal from Fishing the Atlantic joins the NJ Multi Species Podcast to discuss nearly 20 years of building a thriving fishing community, New York City fishing, Jamaica Bay striped bass, charters, party boats, social media, and the importance of bringing anglers together.Joe and Kim also cover Father's Day fishing, current New Jersey freshwater and saltwater reports, Multi Species Mayhem standings, Yellow Dog Paddle, Eddie Mackin's hybrid striped bass bite, The Gambler fishing reports, and the upcoming kayak giveaway.Suffer For The Fish!

Episode 153 features Steve Haas of Up Front Bait & Tackle discussing what it takes to keep a local tackle shop thriving in today's fishing industry. We dive into the Bass Pro debate, bunker shortages, sea bass fishing, local fishing reports, Steve's new fishing book, crabbing contests, and much more.Joe and Kim also recap the Hybrid/Walleye Showdown, discuss current New Jersey fishing conditions, announce the heated rod giveaway winner, and preview upcoming guests including Fishing The Atlantic and Weird NJ.Suffer For The Fish!

Dom from Fish Poison Rods joins the NJ Multi Species Podcast to discuss custom rod building, the popularity of mini rods, and what goes into creating personalized fishing equipment. Joe and Kim also cover the latest MultiSpecies Mayhem standings, Hybrid Striped Bass & Walleye Challenge updates, sea bass reports, missing bunker concerns, giant Round Valley trout, and upcoming opportunities with 8 Ball Sportfishing.Suffer For The Fish! 🎣

Joe Santiago and Kim Sorg return after a two-week break to discuss the latest fishing reports, the annual Mayhem on The Gambler trip, and major updates from the Multi Species Mayhem Tournament.This week's guest is Kurtis Walrath (@justlike2beoutside), a dedicated multi-species angler known for his kayak fishing adventures and passion for striped bass, trout, pike, and walleye. Kurtis shares his experiences fishing both freshwater and saltwater, explains why he prefers kayak fishing, and discusses the gear and tactics that help him consistently find success.The episode also covers giant tilefish catches, sea bass fishing challenges, fluke season expectations, and the story behind the increasingly popular Bogan Mini Rods.Suffer For The Fish! 🎣

Episode 150 of the NJ Multi-Species Podcast features longtime New Jersey fishing creator and forum legend Lard Almighty celebrating 15 years on YouTube.Joe and Kim discuss the evolution of fishing content, monetization, trolls, clickbait, short form vs long form videos, and how social media has changed fishing culture over the years. Lard also explains why he refuses to monetize his channel and why keeping fishing content authentic still matters.The episode also includes major Multi-Species Mayhem leaderboard updates, striper reports, sea bass trip announcements, tilefish reports from The Gambler, and upcoming kayak talk with Reel Yaks.

The Jersey Coast Shark Anglers join the show to discuss the history of NJ shark fishing tournaments, the shutdown of mako shark harvests, and the future of offshore shark fishing in New Jersey. Frank Ross and Rick Carroll break down thresher shark tactics, tournament culture, community outreach, and how their club supports local youth, veterans, and first responders.Joe and Kim also recap opening day fluke fishing, trout action in Multi Species Mayhem, and upcoming offshore trips aboard The Gambler and 8 Ball Sportfishing.

In NJMSP #148, we sit down with the creator of Bass Thumb AI, a fishing app designed to help anglers improve using data-driven insights. From tracking conditions like barometric pressure and moon phase to analyzing your personal catch history, this app brings a new level of strategy to fishing.We also cover:NJ freshwater and saltwater fishing updatesRecent trips (pike, trout, crappie, stripers)Multi-Species Mayhem leaderboard movementUpcoming charters and fishing opportunitiesIf you're looking to level up your fishing game, this episode is packed with insights.

Episode 147 marks a major transition for the NJ Multi Species Podcast.Chris Pereira has officially stepped away, and we welcome Kim Sorg as the new co-host—bringing a strong saltwater voice to the show.This episode covers:A chaotic walleye trip in storm conditionsRed-hot striper fishing reports across NJEarly spring saltwater and freshwater updatesMulti Species Mayhem leaderboard shakeupsWe’re also joined by Marcus McCauley, president of the Hackettstown High School Fishing Club, who shares how he built a thriving club, hosted a massive fishing flea market, and is helping grow the next generation of anglers.Big changes, big fishing, and the season is just getting started.

This NJ Multi Species Podcast Special Report dives into a proposed New Jersey hunting regulation that could drastically impact crossbow use across the state.Joined by Steve from Signal 11 Outdoors, we break down what the proposal actually means, why it could affect nearly every hunter, and how it ties into broader concerns about hunting access, regulation trends, and conservation.If you hunt in New Jersey — or care about the future of hunting — this is a must-listen.🗣️ Don’t forget to submit your public comments before the deadline.

Episode 146 of the NJ Multi Species Podcast features Francesca Mundrick of ReWild New Jersey and Rowan University.We discuss rewilding, conservation, and how it impacts hunting and fishing in NJ. Topics include native vs stocked fish, habitat loss, and the growing pressure from development.We also cover Mayhem updates, the opening of the saltwater division, bowfishing discussions, and upcoming trips.

Spring fishing is starting to turn on in New Jersey, and we’re breaking it all down in Episode 145.Joe and Chris talk recent trips, switching from bait to lures, aggressive cold-water bass, and the latest Multi Species Mayhem standings. Plus, the saltwater division is officially open.We’re joined by Chris Lido from The Gambler to discuss party boat fishing, sea bass regulations, Mayhem on The Gambler, and upcoming trips including tilefish and tuna.We also debate NJ’s trout stocking changes and what it means for opening day traditions.

In this episode of the NJ Multi Species Podcast, we sit down with Dan Termini from Bluff Lures to talk about how homemade lure ideas turned into serious fish-catching designs.From building lures out of necessity to developing the “Jersey Special,” Dan breaks down the mindset behind innovation in fishing and what it takes to create something that actually works on the water.We also cover NJ fishing reports, charter updates, and a full breakdown of the Multi Species Mayhem contest — including rules, strategy, and prizes.If you’re into custom gear, NJ fishing, and thinking outside the box, this is one you don’t want to miss.

This is a special emergency episode of the NJ Multi Species Podcast.We sit down with Vic Gelman, the angler behind the muskie that has taken over the internet and sparked a massive debate — is it a New Jersey state record or not?Vic tells the full story of the catch, from brutal ice conditions to landing the fish of a lifetime. We also break down the controversy surrounding border waters, NJ regulations, and why this fish may or may not be officially recognized.Regardless of the outcome, one thing is certain — this is one of the wildest fishing stories to come out of New Jersey in years.🎣 Topics include:The full catch storyIce fishing for muskiesRecord fish rules & loopholesNJ vs NY water disputesThe reality behind the headlines

Episode 143 features Captain Dave Marciano from Wicked Tuna, who joins us to talk about commercial tuna fishing, the reality behind the show, and what it’s like chasing fish worth thousands of dollars.We also cover Mayhem updates, brown trout talk, and NJ fishing reports.

Joe and Chris recap the latest Multi Species Mayhem standings, discuss late-season ice fishing conditions, and celebrate 5,000 subscribers on YouTube.The episode features Joe Albans and Scott Hafner from the Hudson River Fishermen’s Association, who join the show to talk about their club, tournaments, and the importance of fishing communities.The guys also discuss the upcoming Mayhem on the Gambler trip, announce a kayak giveaway for club members, and share plans for more NJMSP group fishing trips this season.A packed episode covering community fishing clubs, seasonal transitions, and growing the fishing community.

A massive 45-pound muskie caught on Greenwood Lake may have broken the New Jersey state record — but the catch sparked a huge debate across the fishing community.Because Greenwood Lake is a boundary water shared by New Jersey and New York, anglers are arguing over whether the fish should actually count as a NJ state record.Joe and Chris break down the controversy, discuss the regulations around border waters, and debate what the decision could mean for the future of the muskie fishery.We’re also joined by Bob Darling, a Multi-Species Mayhem member who had an incredible run of catches including a giant chain pickerel and hybrid striped bass. Bob shares how the contest pushed him to fish more and target species he never chased before.Topics include:• Ice fishing recap and recent catches• Multi-Species Mayhem motivation and competition• The debate over using guides in fishing contests• A crazy channel catfish story that ended with a phone at the bottom of the lake• The full breakdown of the Greenwood Lake Muskie State Record controversyThis episode sparked one of the biggest fishing debates we’ve ever had.

Pamela Otis joins us for Episode 140 of the New Jersey Multi Species Podcast. Only three years into fishing, she’s already built a strong reputation for catching quality fish—especially through the ice.We talk about her self-taught journey, trout tactics without electronics, summer river fishing, and breaking stereotypes in the fishing world.We also recap Bob Darling’s monster hybrid and tiger muskie that vaulted him into first place in Multi Species Mayhem, discuss the massive NJ snowstorm, and preview upcoming trips with The Gambler and 8 Ball Sportfishing.Next week: Bob Darling joins the show.🎣 Just go fishing.

The Mayhem leaderboard explodes as Chuck loses the #1 spot for the first time in over a year. New leader fish roll in, including a 46” muskie and multiple first-place entries.We discuss 2026 sea bass regulation proposals, ice fishing updates, and Mayhem on the Gambler.Special guest Jessica from @SheSlaysAngling joins us to talk South Jersey freshwater fishing, transitioning from offshore saltwater to bass and pickerel, and launching Batty Baits.Another week. More chaos.Suffer for the Fish. 🎣

Episode 138 features John Scalera from Hackettstown High School discussing the launch of their brand-new fishing club, now over 50 members strong in year one. We talk youth involvement, fundraising, charter trips, community support, and how Hackettstown High School could inspire more NJ schools to launch fishing clubs.We also recap brutal Oneida Lake ice fishing, Multi Species Mayhem updates, offshore charter news, and tease an upcoming Wicked Tuna captain interview.New episodes drop every Friday at 12PM.#HackettstownHighSchool #HackettstownFishingClub #NJMultiSpecies #NJMSP138 #SufferForTheFish #NewJerseyFishing #YouthFishing #FishingClub #MultiSpeciesMayhem #NJFishingCommunity🔥 Hashtags

Episode 137 delivers a classic NJ Multi Species curveball. With a last-minute guest change, Eddie Mackin jumps in fresh off an ice fishing contest win to talk ice conditions, bait shop struggles, fishing club survival, and a surprising sturgeon bycatch story while walleye fishing.Packed with New Jersey fishing insight, Mayhem updates, and real-world fishing conversations — this episode is a must-listen for anglers who fish it all.

Episode 136 of the New Jersey Multi Species Podcast features DKam, a New Jersey-based fishing content creator known for chasing pike and muskie and building viral fishing videos.The conversation covers ice fishing after a major snowstorm, muskie tactics, reaction strikes, lure design, content strategy, and why pink keeps producing monster fish.A perfect blend of fishing knowledge, media insight, and NJ angling culture.

In Episode NJMSP #135, we’re joined by Scotty Sevens and Shell Baby for a wide-ranging conversation on sheepshead, blackfish, party boats, gear choices, conservation, and women breaking barriers in fishing. From banana curses to unregulated fisheries and Mayhem Club strategy, this episode captures everything that makes NJ Multi Species different.Available now wherever you get your podcasts.

Nick Honachefsky of Saltwater Underground joins the NJ Multi Species Podcast to talk about filming a national fishing TV show, New Jersey surf fishing culture, secretive fisheries, and the real grind behind Discovery and ESPN productions.We also break down the Barrier Island Beach Brawl, multi-species surf fishing, ice fishing roots, fossil hunting, and major updates to the Multi Species Mayhem contest—including new charter trip donations.A must-listen for anyone who lives the fishing lifestyle—above or underground.

In Episode 133 of the New Jersey Multi Species Podcast, Joe and Chris are joined by longtime New Jersey outdoor writer Bruce Litton to discuss microlight fishing, fishing access, spot burning, and why multi-species angling keeps people connected to the sport.The episode covers early Mayhem 2026 action, contest rules, ice fishing challenges, political pressure on anglers, social media backlash, and the responsibility fishermen have to protect their future.

The NJ Multi Species Podcast 2025 Christmas Special delivers live giveaways, Christmas chaos, and some of the biggest fishing regulation wins NJ anglers have seen in decades.Joe Santiago and Chris Pereira are joined by Jerry Gorski from NJFishing.com to recap the NJMSP Christmas Party, announce giveaway winners, and explain how real angler involvement helped secure better sea bass, tuna, and striped bass regulations for 2026.Merry Christmas from NJMSP 🎄 — we’ll see you in 2026.

In Episode 132 of the New Jersey Multi Species Podcast, Joe and Chris are joined once again by Frank Mihalic, widely known as The Blackfish Master, for a deep dive into what it truly takes to land giant tautog.Frank breaks down drag systems, bait presentation, jig vs rig strategy, hook sharpness, blackfish behavior, and why patience beats spot hopping every time. The crew also discusses tog growth rates, Cape May vs North Jersey fisheries, and why some of the biggest blackfish never come inshore.Plus, updates on Multi Species Mayhem 2026, new saltwater divisions, and upcoming giveaways.

In Episode 131 of the New Jersey Multi Species Podcast, Joe and Chris welcome back Jerry Hicks of Net Trek to talk innovative fishing net design, multi-species challenges, and how the right net can change your entire fishing experience.The crew also covers striper reports, ice fishing safety, blackfish tactics, updates from the NJMSP Christmas Party, and the continued growth of Multi Species Mayhem. Jerry explains Net Trek’s unique flip-and-dip nets, wading staff systems, and his new Wizard tool that helps anglers dial in the perfect net.Packed with gear talk, real-world fishing insight, and classic NJMSP banter.🎣 Suffer for the Fish.

In NJMSP #130, Joe & Chris sit down with Frank Panico, Chief of NJ Fish & Wildlife Law Enforcement, for one of the most detailed and transparent conversations we’ve ever had. Frank explains officer staffing, response times, snakehead rules, freshwater vs saltwater enforcement, trespassing laws, fines, spearfishing in NJ, the 3-rod rule, CWD concerns, and answers dozens of “Stump the Warden” listener questions.A must-listen for every New Jersey angler and hunter.Part 2 coming soon.

Episode 129 features Josh Taylor of Fish Fever Guide Service breaking down freshwater striped bass winter patterns, bait selection, ice tactics, and the late-season shallow-ice bite. Additional topics include Mayhem standings, Delaware River walleye updates, the NJFishing.com Christmas Party, late striper/shark opportunities with Captain Dom, and Eddie Mackin’s jerkbait bite.Sponsors: Yellow Dog Paddle • Eddie Mackin’s Rippin Lips • NJFishing.com • 8 Ball SportfishingSupporters: Psycho Jigs • Lip Glue • Nor’Easter Hardcore Apparel • Toggy Time Jigs • The Mimmi 6 • The GamblerNew episodes every Friday at noon.

In NJMSP Episode 128, Joe and Chris welcome Dan from PalMarius Rods, the creator behind one of the most innovative fishing brands in the Northeast.They dive deep into jig design, electric reel tech, 3D-printed tackle solutions, and the journey from pouring bucktails in a Cape May shed to building a full-fledged tackle empire.The guys also talk:• The insane mystery fish that nearly spooled Sandi• Wild striper and tog reports• Yellow Dog Paddle trout & perch updates• The NJMSP Christmas Party details• Hunting stories, gear breakdowns, and moreSuffer for the Fish.

In Episode 127, Joe and Chris sit down with surf fishing technician Dan Mancari, who explains how to read cuts, work tides, build a bite, and target walleye after dark. The guys break down the massive updates coming to Multi-Species Mayhem 2026, including new species, new divisions, membership perks, the return of the pig roast, and a potential grand-prize raffle structure.They cover the kayak cheating scandal, Sandy Hook stories, cadence strategy, lure setup, river techniques, and Chuck Many’s insane 7-hour striper grind with Joe.New episodes every Friday at 12PM.Join our Facebook Live every Monday at 7PM.

In Episode #126 of the New Jersey Multi Species Podcast, Joe and Chris talk with Anthony Pensabene, Treasurer of the New Jersey Outdoor Alliance (NJOA). Tony explains the inner workings of the NJOA, its bipartisan mission, and how the organization supports the state’s hunting, fishing, and trapping community.They also discuss the Mayhem contest leaderboard shake-up, late-season white perch fishing, upcoming striper trips, and the NJMSP Christmas Party on December 6th.🎣 Sponsored by Yellow Dog Paddle, Eddie Mackin’s Rippin Lips Fishin Trips, NJFishing.com, and 8 Ball Sportfishing.#SufferForTheFish

Joe and Chris welcome Craig McGuinness of Freedom Outdoor to tackle the Salmon River debate: do these fish actually bite, or is it all snagging?They also cover the Mayhem leaderboard, Yellow Dog Paddle Delaware jig trips, and Toggy Time Jigs’ Christmas Party rod giveaway.Other topics: fluke vs striper popularity, rising river privatization, and why the Salmon River has become both legendary and controversial.Plus updates on Eddie Mackin’s 11-species day and next week’s guest John Regalo from the NJOA.#sufferforthefish 🎣

Old photos, big feelings. Joe & Chris sit down with Russell Bethon Sr. (Raritan Bay Anglers) to unpack whether yesterday’s norms—deck shots of winter flounder, liberal creel limits—caused today’s slowdowns, or if the real culprits are climate, predators, bunker, and pollution. Plus: Salmon River went nuclear, Rhode Island tog lessons (when to ditch the jig), “invasive” triggers & blowfish, and Russ’s unforgettable Alaska halibut. Next week: Nurse Jackie from the Salmon River.Mentions: Yellow Dog Paddle, NJFishing.com, Eight Ball Sportfishing, Ripping Lips Fishing Trips, Nor’Easter Hardcore Apparel, Double Eagle Lodge.CTA: Follow the show, rate us ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐, and tell us where you draw your keep-or-release line.

Roger from Cooking & Fishing joins Joe & Chris for a deep dive on open-water smallmouth tactics, when live bait truly shines (and why he sometimes avoids it), and how LiveScope is changing tackle and technique. Then we wade into NJ fishery policy: the proposed 12% striped bass reduction, “no-target” vs “no-harvest,” sea bass debates, bunker pressure, and why better science (and less misinformation) matters.Plus: Multi-Species Mayhem standings & 2026 entry rules, Dec 6 Christmas Party details (Stirling Elks Lodge; raffle supports Heroes on the Water & the NJ Artificial Reef Program), and fall trip shout-outs to Yellow Dog Paddle, Eddie Mackin’s Rippin Lips Fishin Trips, NJFishing.com, and 8 Ball Sportfishing.Questions or raffle donations: [email protected]: Fridays at noon. #SufferForTheFish

Phil Sciortino from The Tackle Box in the Atlantic Highlands joins Joe and Chris for a powerful, emotional episode about the struggles and pride of running one of New Jersey’s most historic tackle shops. They cover everything from the impact of online retail and rising costs to the fight against the proposed no-target striped bass regulation that could destroy local fishing businesses.Also in this episode: Mayhem Contest updates, Christmas Party plans, and why now more than ever it’s time to support your local tackle shop.🎣 New episodes drop Fridays at noon on YouTube and Spotify. #SufferForTheFish

Joe and Chris sit down with Candidate Jack Ciattarelli for a candid talk about the future of fishing and outdoor recreation in New Jersey — covering everything from sea bass quotas and bunker boats to trout hatchery recovery, Merrill Creek access, and small business support for local tackle shops.Ciattarelli shares his vision for balancing conservation with common sense, protecting outdoor rights, and revitalizing New Jersey’s fishing economy.Both candidates were invited; Rep. Mikie Sherrill had not yet responded at the time of recording.🎣 Sponsors: Yellow Dog Paddle • Eddie Mackin’s Rippin Lips Fishing Trips • NJFishing.com • 8 Ball Sportfishing🤝 Supporters: Mike K’s Guide Service • Psycho Jigs • Lip Glue • FC Fish Co • Nor’Easter Hardcore Apparel • Toggy Time Jigs • The Mimmi 6 • The GamblerFollow @NJMultiSpeciesNew episodes Fridays at noon (ET)#SufferForTheFish

Joe disappears at the start of NJMSP #121 — and yes, he actually fell asleep! Chris and Deuce scramble to keep things rolling with Kevin Glenn, who tells the most chaotic fishing story ever: lost bait, cops called, broken motors, and a surprise salmon.Later, Joe wakes up just in time to join Morgan & Andy from Project Healing Waters, who share how their nonprofit uses fly fishing to help veterans heal physically, mentally, and emotionally. They break down the mission, national programs, and how veterans everywhere can get involved.The crew also covers the latest Multi-Species Mayhem Contest leaderboard shake-ups, debates live bait vs. lures, dives into hook size strategies, and shares saltwater updates (including blackfish madness and the elusive triggerfish).New episodes drop Fridays at noon on Spotify & YouTube.

Episode #120 of the NJ Multi Species Podcast takes you from the Salmon River to the harbor at night, where Joe and Chris stumble into a whole new way to target salmon. From bobber-down skien fishing to dodging lines in low water, this recap is packed with fishing lessons and laughs.Our guest this week is Phil from Wildman Outdoor Adventures, a multi-species guide based in the Pacific Northwest who targets everything from Columbia River sturgeon to walleye, salmon, and crabs. Phil shares epic multi-species days, world-class walleye stories, and his perspective on invasive vs. native species management.This episode also marks our first-ever livestream on both YouTube and Facebook, with live comments and community engagement throughout.Sponsors: Yellow Dog Paddle • Eddie Mackin’s Rippin Lips Fishing Trips • NJFishing.com • 8 Ball SportfishingSupporters: Mike K’s Guide Service • Psycho Jigs • Lip Glue • FC Fish Co • Nor’Easter Hardcore Apparel • Toggy Time Jigs • The Mimmi 6 • The GamblerFollow us on social: @NJMultiSpeciesWebsite: www.njmultispecies.com#sufferforthefish

Episode 119 of the NJ Multi Species Podcast features legendary angler Chuck Many, who joins Joe, Chris, and Deucey to recap his unbelievable 18-species day (and why the count correction still proves the record). Chuck shares the story of his PB unicorn sheepshead, breaks down the history of weakfish, debates bait choices, and explains his obsession with striped bass.The crew also dives into the Multi-Species Mayhem Contest, the December 6th Christmas Party, and how strategies differ across saltwater and freshwater when chasing numbers. This one is packed with laughs, debates, and serious fishing knowledge.🎣 Sponsored by Yellow Dog Paddle, Eddie Mackin’s Rippin Lips Fishing Trips, NJFishing.com, and 8 Ball Sportfishing. Supported by Mike K’s Guide Service, Psycho Jigs, Lip Glue, FC Fish Co, Nor’Easter Hardcore Apparel, Toggy Time Jigs, The Mimmi 6, and The Gambler.#sufferforthefish

Episode 118 of the NJ Multi Species Podcast goes LIVE with our first-ever guest stream featuring Jen & Dustin Muse, competitive kayak bass anglers and content creators from Nebraska who built a career around fishing.Joe and Chris share trip recaps, including John Dornes lost giant largemouth, Chuck Manny’s legendary sheepshead, and a wild bluefish blitz that produced Spanish mackerel and bonito. They also dig into the absurdity of "no target" fishing regulations and circle hook rules.Jen and Dustin explain how they left 9-to-5 life behind, built sponsorships, raised their kids in tournaments, and turned their passion for fishing into a lifestyle.Plus: NJ Mayhem contest updates, Yellow Dog Paddle trip news, Gambler’s sea bass and fluke bite, Eddie Mackin’s striper trips, and the date for the NJ Fishing Merry Mayhem Christmas Bar (Dec 6).

Episode 117 is a milestone – the first-ever live-streamed episode of the NJ Multi Species Podcast!Joe and Chris dive into:Fishing the Passaic River with nonstop smallmouth, carp, and pike encounters.A heated debate on invasive species like snakeheads, flatheads, and blue catfish – threat or opportunity?Fishing with kids, boat vs. kayak vs. shore, and when to switch them from live bait to lures.Real-time chaos with live audience comments, shoutouts, and hilarious side tangents.Plus, sponsor updates from Eddie Mackin’s Rippin Lips, Yellow Dog Paddle, NJFishing.com, and 8 Ball Sportfishing.🎣 Weekly episodes drop every Friday at noon on Spotify, YouTube, and everywhere you get podcasts.

Joe and Chris return after vacation for Episode 116 of the NJ Multi Species Podcast! Joe recaps his dream trip targeting sheepshead with Captain Scotty Sevens, sparking a debate over catch-and-release vs. harvest of this emerging New Jersey trophy fish. Chris shares a surprise striped bass catch on vacation and raises concerns about salmon changing lake trout fishing at Merrill Creek Reservoir.This week’s guest is Scott Belisle of Lehigh Fishing Company, one of the only rod makers in the U.S. crafting his own blanks. Scott explains his rod-building process, the difference between fiberglass and carbon, and why he stands behind every rod with a 20-year unconditional warranty. Plus, Scott offers NJMSP listeners 10% off rods through September 5th!The guys also reveal the official Christmas Party date: December 6th — mark your calendars!🎣 lehighfishing.com | IG/FB: Lehigh Fishing Company (@LFCrods)📩 Contact: [email protected]

Joe and Chris are joined by Tackle World’s Mark Mercer — a chef with a degree in culinary arts — to talk about the part of fishing we almost never discuss: keeping and cooking your catch.Mark shares insider tips on fish care, storage, and cooking techniques for both freshwater and saltwater species, explains why bleeding matters, and offers recipes that work even if you’re not a pro chef. We tackle the “inedible fish” myths (yes, even false albacore), swap stories about weird finds inside fish, and debate the best-tasting fish in NJ.Also in this episode: Joe’s freezing wet wading trip with Chuck, Chris’s flathead night missions, Mayhem contest updates, NJMSP hat restocks, and our upcoming vacation break.Sponsored by Yellow Dog Paddle, Eddie Mackin’s Rippin Lips Fishin Trips, NJFishing.com, and 8 Ball Sportfishing. Supported by Mike K’s Guide Service, Psycho Jigs, Lip Glue, FC Fish Co, Nor’Easter Hardcore Apparel, Toggy Time Jigs, The Mimmi 6, and The Gambler.

Joe and Chris break down the sea bass regulation crisis and what it means for NJ anglers, then talk with George Shao from The Fisherman Magazine about freshwater stripers, ice fishing, and why sharing fishing info matters. They also recap an insane fluke trip with Fishmonger III (81 keepers by 9:30 AM!) and a Chesapeake cobia adventure. Plus: the importance of standing up for outdoor rights—even if the issue doesn’t affect you (yet).

Back for the first time since Episode 2, Justin Lerner joins NJMSP to talk about his recent fishing adventures around the globe—golden dorado in Argentina, bull trout in Alberta, and snook in Florida. But things heat up fast when the guys debate whether lure color makes a difference and take on bait vs. lure elitism.Also in this episode:The Fishmonger is crushing flukeHybrid stripers are lighting up Lake HopatcongChris admits to caring about cursing (maybe)A new challenge is issued: can you catch fish with a ridiculous lure color?

Episode 112 brings sturgeon power and saltwater chaos! Joe and Chris recap a 12-species challenge with Chuck, Joe’s first surf fluke attempt using Roger Aye’s blade mod, and welcome back Dave to talk about his unforgettable sturgeon trip in Oregon. From nearly being pulled overboard by a 7-footer to navigating an airport for the first time since 1980, Dave’s trip is packed with emotion, laughs, and fishing glory.Plus, hear about upcoming live podcast plans, heartfelt moments, and some good-natured jabs at the crew.Next week: Justin Lerner returns to settle a big debate—saltwater vs. freshwater skill.New episodes drop Fridays at noon!