Fishing University's Take It to the Bank

In this episode of the Take It To The Bank podcast, host Ben Ballou welcomes NFL lineman Ben Cleveland, who shares his journey from a small-town upbringing to professional football and his passion for fishing. The conversation covers Cleveland's early experiences in the outdoors, his NFL career, the draft process, and the challenges of balancing sports with personal interests. They also discuss a memorable fishing trip to Kentucky Lake, the nuances of fishing techniques, and the reactions to social media posts about their fishing methods. The episode concludes with light-hearted banter and insights into the world of professional sports and fishing. takeaways Ben Cleveland shares his journey from small-town Georgia to the NFL. Fishing was a necessity growing up, helping to put food on the table. The importance of quick decision-making in both fishing and football. Draft day was a mix of excitement and missed calls. Cleveland emphasizes the mental aspect of football and fishing. Social media reactions can be surprising and humorous. Hook setting techniques can vary and spark debate among anglers. The camaraderie between athletes in different sports is evident. Fishing techniques differ greatly depending on the location and conditions. The joy of fishing lies in the experience, not just the catch.

In this episode of the Take It to the Bank podcast, host Ben Ballou welcomes tournament angler Jordan Hartman to discuss fishing techniques, conditions, and experiences on Kentucky Lake and the Tennessee River. They explore the current fishing season, effective strategies for September, and the importance of understanding fish behavior. The conversation also touches on safety tips for navigating Kentucky Lake, the impact of winter drawdown on fishing, and some humorous fishing stories.Chapters00:00Introduction to Fishing Season00:52Jordan Hartman's Tournament Experience02:30Current Fishing Conditions05:18September Fishing Strategies08:59Understanding the Tennessee River09:41Scoping Techniques for Bass Fishing14:41Identifying Bass on LiveScope18:10Bait Selection for Scoping23:15Using Spinnerbaits and Worms25:09Fishing Techniques for Smallmouth Bass31:07Understanding Kentucky Lake's Conditions35:39Navigating Kentucky Lake Safely39:17Fishing Bars and Their Importance44:54Embarrassing Moments on the Water

In this episode of the Take It to the Bank podcast, host Ben Ballou interviews Harmon Marien, a rising star in the fishing world. They discuss Harmon’s journey through college fishing, his experiences on Northern fisheries, and insights from his recent tournament at Leech Lake. The conversation covers various fishing techniques, bait selections, and the differences between targeting smallmouth and largemouth bass. Harmon shares valuable tips for aspiring anglers and recounts some humorous and embarrassing moments from his fishing adventures.TakeawaysHarmon Marien is a talented young angler with a bright future.College fishing has significantly raised the competitive bar.Understanding the specific habitat of a lake is crucial for success.Smallmouth bass prefer to be in areas where they can see all around them.Fishing techniques can vary greatly depending on the conditions and fish behavior.Bait selection is key; certain baits work better in different situations.Fishing pressure can change fish behavior and feeding patterns.Trial and error is essential in finding the right technique for the day.Jig fishing can be effective, especially in windy conditions.Embarrassing moments on the water are part of the fishing experience.00:00 Introduction to Harmon Marien02:19 The Journey into College Fishing06:14 Success in College Fishing10:16 Exploring Northern Fisheries11:37 Strategies for Targeting Bass Species20:04 Analyzing Leech Lake's Structure29:37 Tactics for Catching Smallmouth Bass33:54 Essential Baits for Bass Fishing36:57 Techniques for Fishing Boulders40:24 Drop Shot Strategies and Setups42:34 Jig Fishing for Smallmouth Bass46:38 Understanding Fish Behavior and Feeding Patterns49:34 Techniques for Presenting Minnow Baits55:38 Jig Fishing Success in Challenging Conditions58:02 Common Mistakes in Smallmouth Fishing59:34 Embarrassing Moments on the Water

In this episode of 'Take It to the Bank', host Ben Ballou and elite series pro Jonathan Kelley dive deep into the world of smallmouth bass fishing. They discuss the nuances of fishing in northern waters, particularly Lake Oneida, and share insights on tournament preparation, bait selection, and the behavior of smallmouth bass. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating rough waters and the importance of boat maintenance. Listeners are treated to entertaining anecdotes and valuable tips for both novice and experienced anglers.takeawaysSmallmouth bass fishing is best during cooler weather.Different northern fisheries require different gear and techniques.Mapping technology is crucial for locating smallmouth bass.Smallmouth spawn around individual rocks and gravel areas.Grass mixed with rocks is a prime location for smallmouth.Hair jigs are effective in calm conditions and require a slow retrieve.Boat maintenance is essential for safe navigation in rough waters.Understanding fish behavior is key to successful fishing.Tournament fishing requires adaptability and quick decision-making.Funny and unexpected moments can happen while fishing.Chapters00:00Introduction to Smallmouth Bass Fishing03:03Preparing for Upcoming Tournaments06:06Understanding Smallmouth Behavior08:49Spawning Habits and Habitat Preferences12:03Fishing Techniques and Strategies15:11Current and Its Impact on Fishing17:57Breaking Down Lake Oneida21:03Fishing Gear and Setup23:49Bait Selection for Smallmouth Bass27:00Final Thoughts and Tips36:56Understanding Fish Behavior and Bait Selection39:20The Art of Drop Shot Fishing40:50Exploring Hair Jigs and Their Effectiveness46:02Identifying Feeding Zones for Smallmouth Bass50:06Navigating Rough Waters: Boat Maintenance and Safety56:03Experiences in Extreme Water Conditions01:03:38Humorous and Embarrassing Fishing Stories

In this episode of the Take It to the Bank podcast, host Ben Ballou welcomes Hunter Baughman, a professional fisherman who has overcome significant physical challenges to pursue his passion for fishing. The conversation covers Hunter's journey from childhood to becoming a competitive angler, including his experiences in tournament fishing, his recent success in the Toyota Series, and his insights on fishing techniques, particularly in rivers during the summer months. Hunter shares personal stories, including humorous moments and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity, making for an inspiring and informative discussion.takeawaysHunter Baughman has overcome significant physical challenges to pursue his passion for fishing.Fishing is accessible to everyone, regardless of physical ability.The importance of competition drives many anglers, including Hunter.Hunter's journey in tournament fishing began with local competitions and evolved into national events.The Toyota Series win was a pivotal moment in Hunter's fishing career.Fishing rivers in the summer requires specific techniques and strategies.Current plays a crucial role in fishing success on rivers.Backwater areas can hold larger fish during the summer months.Patience and persistence are key to successful fishing.Humor and positivity are essential in overcoming life's challenges.Chapters00:00Introduction to Hunter Baughman04:24Overcoming Challenges: Hunter's Journey10:18The Love for Fishing: Early Memories12:29Transitioning to Tournament Fishing18:56Building a Career in Professional Fishing27:16Overcoming Challenges in Fishing29:30The Journey to the Toyota Series Win44:01Fishing Strategies for Hot Summer Rivers51:43Family and Fishing Life52:15Understanding River Currents and Jetties53:48Fishing Techniques for Jetties59:10Exploring Backwater Fishing Strategies01:03:45Current vs. Water Level in Fishing01:04:48Fishing Challenges in Hot Weather01:07:15Humorous Encounters and Misconceptions01:10:44Embarrassing Moments on the Water

Join host Ben Ballou in this exclusive interview with Andy Morgan, widely regarded as the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) in professional fishing. Dive into a compelling mix of fishing tips, hunting adventures, and personal stories from the Tennessee River to wild bluff country.✅ Topics covered:Fishing techniques during the Mayfly hatchLive Scope and how it's transforming the gameBluff fishing tips from a proHow current and seasonal patterns affect fishAndy’s favorite hunting stories and outdoor encountersWhether you're a seasoned angler or weekend warrior, you'll pick up valuable outdoor insights, gear tips, and a few laughs.🦆 Bonus: Andy shares his love for duck hunting and bow hunting, revealing how both passions fuel his competitive edge.📍 Filmed near the Tennessee River, this episode is a must-watch for fans of outdoor adventures, bass fishing, and real stories from the field.#Fishing #AndyMorgan #Hunting #TennesseeRiver #LiveScope #MayflyHatch #FishingTips #BluffFishing #OutdoorLife #FishingPodcast #DuckHunting #FishingStories #bassfishing Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to the GOAT of Fishing (Andy Morgan)02:33 – Why Andy Loves Both Hunting and Fishing05:31 – Duck Hunting: Andy’s #1 Passion08:33 – Elk Hunting & Bowhunting in the Wild11:43 – Fishing the Tennessee River: Seasonal Insights14:30 – The Importance of the Mayfly Hatch17:31 – Shallow Fishing vs. Deep Water Strategy20:22 – Choosing the Right Bait for the Right Conditions23:19 – How Live Scope...

Welcome back to another episode of the Take It to the Bank Podcast! In this insightful and entertaining episode, host Ben Ballou sits down with legendary pro bass angler James Niggemeyer to dive deep into Texas bass fishing in the month of May—especially on the famed Lake Fork. Known for his humble attitude, deep faith, and one of the most unique names in the sport, James shares not only his fishing knowledge but also his inspiring personal story, from his rise in the Elite Series to his unwavering faith through life's toughest moments.What You'll Learn in This Episode:How to find and fish the shad spawn across Texas lakesWhy Lake Fork in May is both magical and challenging for bass anglersProven tactics for fishing post-spawn bass, including frogs, swim jigs, Carolina rigs, and speed wormsHow James breaks down standing timber and offshore structureThe real story behind James's social media fame and how his name became a talking pointHow faith and fishing intersect in his life and careerKeys to fish care during tournaments and maximizing survival on warm spring daysBonus Content:Deep dive into Birch Creek on Lake Fork, including map breakdowns and strategic locationsSetup recommendations: rods, reels, line, baits, and favorite colorsWhy color selection may not be as complex as many thinkNavigating the transition from shallow to offshore fishing during MayTop community holes and patterns working right now on Lake ForkWhether you're a tournament angler looking to refine your strategy or just a bass fishing fan who loves learning from the best, this episode is packed with actionable advice, heart, and humor. Don’t miss it.Timestamps:0:00 – Intro with James Niggemeyer2:00 – The story behind the name and social media explosion6:00 – James on faith, fishing, and life challenges11:00 – Early years, Elite Series memories, and guiding in Texas17:00 – Boater-on-boater drawdown stories from back in the day23:00 – Shad spawn: locations, timing, and techniques34:00 – Lake Fork in May: top patterns and baits46:00 – Birch Creek map breakdown and how to fish it55:00 – Offshore structure and southern Lake Fork strategy59:00 – Gear setups: frogs, squarebills, Carolina rigs, and more1:11:00 – How to approach standing timber confidentlySubscribe for more deep-dive conversations with top anglers, fishing strategies, and all things competitive bass fishing.Keywords:Texas bass fishing, Lake Fork, May bass fishing, shad spawn, James Niggemeyer, Take it to the Bank podcast, Bassmaster Elite Series, MLF, post-spawn bass, frog fishing, swim jig setup, Carolina rig, fishing tackle setup, standing timber bass, how to fish Lake Fork, bass tournament strategy, Christian anglers, bass fishing podcast

Welcome back to Take It to the Bank Podcast. In this episode, we sit down with BPT and MLF champion Jeremy Lawyer to talk everything April bass fishing. From targeting fish in all phases of the spawn to key strategies for navigating rapidly changing spring conditions, this conversation is packed with practical tips for serious anglers.What you’ll hear in this episode:• An absolutely wild story about Drew Boggs and a Dremel tool that you’ve got to hear to believe• The latest patterns on Grand Lake, Table Rock and Lake of the Ozarks• Why fish positioning changes daily in April and how to stay ahead of them• Jeremy’s go to sight fishing baits and techniques, including the underrated chicken rig• The pros and cons of wacky rigs, trick worms, tubes and more when bed fishing pressured lakes• How to choose the best bank lines, water color and spawning zones on highland reservoirs• How Jeremy breaks down lake sections to target pre spawn, spawning and post spawn fish all in the same day• Tips for reading bass behavior and knowing when to walk away from a stubborn bed fish• His favorite line, hook and rod setups for finesse fishing and flipping• The one fish that still haunts him years later and what it cost himWhether you're fishing a tournament, preparing for a trip to Lake of the Ozarks or just trying to understand spring bass behavior better, this is the episode to study. Jeremy’s advice is based on decades of experience and delivers real world knowledge any angler can apply right now.Be sure to subscribe to the channel for more pro angler interviews, bass fishing strategy, and behind the scenes stories from the water. Take It to the Bank Podcast is your go to source for seasonal breakdowns, gear tips and fishing insights straight from the pros.Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all major streaming platforms.KeywordsBass fishing AprilLake of the Ozarks bass fishingJeremy Lawyer fishingbed fishing tipsspawning bass strategiesfishing podcastwacky rig setupspring bass fishingMLF pro anglerTake It to the Bank Podcastchicken rig fishingpre spawn basspost spawn basshighland reservoir fishingbass sight fishingOzarks fishing spring

Jake Lawrence’s the hottest name in professional bass fishing right now 🔥 — straight off a Top 5 finish at MLF Redcrest, Jake Lawrence joins Take It to the Bank with Ben Ballou to talk all things April bass fishing, forward-facing sonar mastery, and one unforgettable moment live on national TV... (yes, THAT cast 😳)Whether you're chasing spawning smallmouth on Kentucky Lake, targeting pre/post-spawn largemouth on the Tennessee River, or just trying to figure out how to stay locked in during this wild spring transition, this episode is PACKED with game-changing knowledge.🚀 Topics include:✅ April bass fishing tips for Kentucky Lake, Pickwick & Guntersville✅ Smallmouth vs largemouth spring behavior: where to find them✅ What makes April the most dynamic fishing month✅ Jake's go-to baits: swimbaits, jerkbaits, traps, minnow rigs & more✅ The bait fish will never get used to: jighead minnow breakdown✅ Masterclass in electronics: forward-facing sonar + perspective mode✅ Why zero-degree mounts and cone angles REALLY matter✅ The fish that bit while Jake was... well, you’ll just have to listen

elcome to a deep dive into April bass fishing in Florida with none other than Randall Tharp, the "Honey Badger" himself! In this full episode of Take It to the Bank, Ben Ballou and Randall Tharp break down everything you need to know about spring bass fishing, fry guarders, shad spawns, and how to catch big bass in Florida during one of the best months of the year to be on the water.From Kissimmee grass and hydrilla to shell bars and shad spawns, this episode covers:✅ Why April is prime time to fish in Florida✅ Best techniques for fry guarders and post-spawn bass✅ Randall’s favorite baits: swim jigs, topwater, prop baits & more✅ How to find shell bars and brush piles on the Harris Chain✅ Electronics tips: side imaging, forward-facing sonar, and live scope✅ Epic stories from Randall’s tournament career – including his FLW Cup win💥 Whether you’re fishing Okeechobee, Harris Chain, St. Johns River, or anywhere in the Sunshine State, this episode is packed with Florida bass fishing tips to help you catch more fish this spring.

Bassmaster Elite Series pro Brian New joins host Ben Ballou to break down everything happening on the water in April. From herring and shad spawns to bed fishing strategy, this episode is packed with timely tips for lakes like Lake Murray, Clarks Hill, Hartwell, and more.Topics covered include:Finding spawning bass in dead-end pockets and transition areasHow to fish the herring spawn effectivelyKey differences between herring and shad spawnsTop 5–6 baits to throw in April and whyHow sun angle, shadow, and stealth impact your bed fishingUsing LiveScope (forward and perspective) to find spawning fishTournament stories and tactics with legends like Brian ThriftWhether you're fishing in the Carolinas, Georgia, or anywhere with springtime bass, this episode will help you dial in your game for April.Keywords: bass fishing podcast, April bass fishing tips, herring spawn fishing, bed fishing, Lake Murray bass, Clarks Hill tips, LiveScope spawning bass, Brian New podcast, spring bass lures

Elite Series pro Robert Gee joins host Ben Ballou for a masterclass on bed fishing in April. After a wild ride at his first Bassmaster Classic, Rob dives deep into what makes Highland reservoir fishing so unique this time of year. From Dale Hollow to Norris Lake, Rob explains exactly how to locate spawning largemouth and smallmouth bass, what baits to throw, how to work them, and how to get pressured fish to bite when they don't want to.You’ll hear:Rob’s full behind-the-scenes Classic recapHow he breaks down a new lake in AprilFavorite sight fishing setups, baits, and colorsSmallmouth vs largemouth bed fishing strategiesThe role of marinas, pea gravel, and clear waterHow to use a glide bait as a powerful search toolTips for long-distance targeting and boat positioningWhy taking pictures and marking beds is key to successAnd why Highland reservoirs shine in springIf you fish Dale Hollow, Norris, Center Hill, Cherokee, or any Highland reservoir in April, this episode is loaded with info you can take to the bank.

In this episode, I run my mouth about how I got to where I am, who got me here, and why you should listen!

In this episode, Ben Ballou and Brent Anderson dive deep into fishing on the Tennessee River, focusing on techniques, conditions, and strategies for success in March. They discuss the unique characteristics of the river, the importance of current, and how to adapt to changing conditions. Brent shares his experiences and insights on the best baits and locations for catching fish, as well as the impact of technology like LiveScope on modern fishing. In this conversation, Brent Anderson shares his extensive knowledge of fishing in the Tennessee River during March. He discusses fish behavior, effective fishing techniques, and high percentage areas to target. The conversation also covers spawning patterns, navigation safety, and essential tackle stores for anglers. Brent provides insights into tournament expectations and the current state of fishing in various lakes, emphasizing the importance of adapting techniques to changing conditions.takeawaysThe Tennessee River offers unique fishing opportunities in March.Current plays a crucial role in fish behavior and location.Understanding the river's structure is key to successful fishing.Using technology like LiveScope can enhance fishing strategies.Different baits are effective at different times of the year.Fish behavior changes with the seasons and water conditions.Secondary patterns can be just as effective as primary ones.Fishing in creeks can yield good results under certain conditions.Moderate current is ideal for fishing success.Identifying key locations can lead to better catch rates. Fish tend to stage in bins during March.High percentage areas are crucial for consistent catches.Spawning often occurs deeper in the main river.Navigating the Tennessee River requires caution and good mapping.Bare gravel areas can be productive fishing spots.Using the right baits is essential for success.Marking waypoints is important for future fishing trips.Safety gear like a boat leash is highly recommended.Fishing pressure can affect catch rates significantly.Understanding fish behavior is key to successful fishing.

In this episode of Take It to the Bank, host Ben Ballou is joined by Elite Series champion Brandon Cobb to break down everything you need to know about fishing herring lakes in March. Whether you're prepping for a tournament or just want to catch more fish on lakes like Hartwell, Lanier, or Clarks Hill, Brandon shares expert tips on where to fish, how to adjust for changing conditions, and the best baits to throw.

In this episode of the Take It to the Bank podcast, host Ben Ballou interviews professional angler Jeremy Lawyer, who shares insights on fishing in the Ozarks region, particularly focusing on Grand Lake and Table Rock Lake. They discuss fishing strategies for March, the importance of weather conditions, and the diversity of fishing techniques required for different lakes. Jeremy emphasizes the significance of understanding patterns versus areas in fishing and shares his essential baits for the month. The conversation also includes some funny stories from Jeremy's fishing experiences.

Ben Ballou interviews elite angler Robert Gee, who shares his insights on fishing in Highland reservoirs during the month of March. They discuss essential baits, techniques, and strategies for success, particularly in March when fish are transitioning to spawn. Robert emphasizes the importance of understanding water conditions, navigating the reservoirs, and avoiding common mistakes that anglers make. He also highlights the diversity of species in Tennessee waters and offers tips for finding and catching bass effectively.takeawaysRobert Gee shares his top five baits for March fishing.Highland reservoirs are characterized by steep, clear waters.Understanding water clarity and temperature is crucial for fishing success.Using 2D sonar can help locate bait and fish efficiently.Transition areas between clay and rock are prime fishing spots.Isolated cover like stumps can attract big bass during pre-spawn.Common mistakes include targeting the wrong areas in clear water.Fishing techniques vary based on weather and water conditions.Spinnerbaits and crankbaits are effective in windy conditions.The best time for bass fishing is late March to early April.

In episode 3 of Fishing University's take it to the Bank, Elite series pro Wes Logan shares insights on fishing in Alabama, particularly in March. He discusses the importance of momentum in fishing, the diversity of lakes in Alabama, and effective techniques for targeting both spotted bass and largemouth. Wes emphasizes the significance of understanding fish behavior, the necessity of proper gear, and the importance of safety while navigating Alabama's waters. He also provides valuable tips for tournament fishing and highlights the need for adaptability in changing conditions.

EP 2: In this episode of Take It to the Bank Podcast, we dive deep into Texas bass fishing with MLF BPT Pro Todd Faircloth. Todd breaks down seasonal patterns, best baits, and top techniques for legendary lakes like Toledo Bend, Sam Rayburn, Lake Fork, and Choke Canyon. If you're looking to catch big bass in Texas, this episode is packed with expert advice you can take straight to the water.Topics Covered:✅ Texas Bass Fishing Overview – How different lakes fish across the state✅ Breaking Down Toledo Bend & Rayburn – Key areas that hold the biggest fish✅ Top 5 Baits for March – The must-have lures for Texas spring bass✅ Moon Phases & Spawning – How bass behavior changes with the full moon✅ Navigating Texas Lakes – Tips to avoid hazards & fish safely✅ Funniest Tournament Story – Todd shares a hilarious experience on the waterBest Baits for March Bass Fishing in Texas:🎣 Bladed Jig 🎣 Lipless Crankbaits🎣 Stick Bait 🎣 Carolina Rig 🎣 Flipping Jig / Texas RigSubscribe for New Episodes Every Tuesday & Friday! Let us know in the comments – what’s your favorite Texas lake to fish?

In this episode of Fishing University's Take It to the Bank podcast, host Ben Ballou interviews professional angler Randall Tharp about fishing in Florida during the month of March. They discuss the unique characteristics of Florida lakes, effective fishing techniques, essential baits and setups, and the importance of preparation and equipment. Randall shares insights on targeting spawning bass, navigating Florida waters, and the challenges faced in the state's fishing landscape. The conversation highlights the diversity of fishing opportunities in Florida, from bass to saltwater species, and concludes with Randall's contact information for those interested in following his fishing journey or booking a charter trip.

Fishing University's Take It to the Bank Podcast with Ben Ballou is your go-to source for regional bass fishing reports and expert insights, airing every Tuesday and Friday. Covering 10 key fishing regions, we break down seasonal patterns, hot baits, and winning strategies to help you stay ahead of the game. Plus, once a month, we bring on legendary pros and industry insiders for exclusive interviews so you can take your fishing knowledge straight to the bank.