Catfish Radio with Luke Clayton & Friends Podcast

Luke Clayton
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Luke Clayton has been an outdoors writer for almost four decades and his byline appears in many different outdoor publications. Luke also pens a weekly outdoors column that runs in 41 Texas newspapers. For the past 15 years, Luke has hosted his radio show, CATFISH RADIO with Luke Clayton and friends which currently airs on 32 terrestrial radio stations and now as a weekly podcast right here on your favorite podcast app! Larry Weishuhn, aka “Mr. Whitetail” has shared a segment of the show with Luke since shortly after the show first aired. Topics are varied each week with four guests talking about everything from catching stripers at Lake Texoma on the Texas/Oklahoma border to hunting wild hogs to shooting and hunting with big-bore airguns. So each week, it’s a good bet Luke and his guest will hit on your favorite topic or discuss something you will be interested in. Luke frequently wraps up the show with “A visit with Luke” where he gives an account of a recent outdoor adventure. There’s always a bit of outdoor cooking talk in every show. Luke has enjoyed camp cooking and especially using his Dutch Kettles outside over embers from a campfire for most of his adult life. For several years, Luke wrote an outdoor cooking column for a major Texas newspaper and he weaves outdoor recipes into many of his newspaper columns as well as here on his podcast. So, settle back, turn the volume up, and see where Luke and his guests take you this week. A new radio show airs each week and the current show will be hosted right here.

  1. 6D AGO

    Squirrel Hunting, White Bass Run on the Trinity, Worldwide Hunting Adventures, and COY DOGS!

    Show Highlights 1. DSC Convention and Squirrel Hunting DSC Convention: Luke and Larry kicked off the show discussing the recent Dallas Safari Club (DSC) convention in Atlanta, noting it was a massive success that raised significant funds for wildlife conservation. Cotton Ranch Hunt: The duo recounted a recent squirrel hunt at the Cotton Ranch in Kaufman County with Donnie Lynch and his prize-winning squirrel dog, "Stubby" (a mountain feist/rat terrier mix). Weather Conditions: The hunt took place right after an ice storm; the weather was cold and windy, keeping the squirrels in their dens, so the hunting was tough. Campfire Cooking: Larry shared his technique for grilling crispy chicken thighs over red-hot coals. Luke shared a humorous story about improvising a breading for fried chicken using crushed Triscuits, saltines, and Doritos because they had no flour at the camp. 2. The Truth About "Coydogs" Guest: Steven Ziggler from The Hunting News. The Myth: Steven discussed the controversial topic of "Coydogs" (coyote-dog hybrids). He explained that while they can breed in captivity, there is zero documented proof of F1 (first-generation) hybrids occurring in the wild, despite a standing $1,500 reward for such proof. The Science: The lack of wild hybrids is likely due to breeding cycles; dogs breed twice a year, while coyotes only breed once, and their mating rituals differ significantly. Most animals identified as "coydogs" are usually just color phases of coyotes or dogs. 3. Hunting Consulting Guest: Wade Derby of Crosshair Consulting. Services: Wade explained his role as a consultant who vets outfitters personally to help clients book hunting trips worldwide, from Africa to Saskatchewan. Advice: He advised hunters to plan ahead, noting that tags for species like antelope in Wyoming and New Mexico often require entering draws early in the year. 4. Trinity River Fishing Report Guest: David Cox of Palmetto Guide Service. White Bass Run: David reported excellent fishing on the Trinity River above Lake Livingston. Despite recent weather, the river is currently low, clear, and lacking strong current. The Catch: They are catching "magnum" white bass (sand bass) in the 2lb range. David recommends trolling deep (25–30 feet) with larger baits like 3/4 oz Rat-L-Traps to target these bigger spawning fish. 5. Sponsors and Mentions Stealth Vision: Dr. John McCall’s optics. Ultramatic Feeders: Hunting blinds and feeders. Smokin' Tex: Electric smokers. Pyramid Air: Air guns and accessories. Choctaw Hunting Lodge: Southeast Oklahoma hunting destination. Here is the summary of each segment for the February 14, 2026, show notes: Segment 1: Campfire Talk & Squirrel Hunting DSC Convention: Luke Clayton and Larry Weishuhn discuss the recent Dallas Safari Club convention in Atlanta, noting the large crowds and successful fundraising for wildlife conservation. Cotton Ranch Squirrel Hunt: The hosts recount a squirrel hunt at the Cotton Ranch in Kaufman County with Donnie Lynch and his champion dog, "Stubby." Luke notes that despite the dog's skill, the squirrels stayed denned up due to the freezing weather following a recent ice storm. Campfire Cooking: Larry shares his technique for grilling crispy chicken thighs over hot coals. Luke shares a story about improvising a breading for fried chicken using crushed Triscuits, Saltines, and Doritos because they forgot the flour. Segment 2: The Myth of the "Coydog" Guest: Steven Ziggler from The Hunting News. F1 Hybrids in the Wild: Steven discusses the lack of scientific evidence for first-generation (F1) coyote-dog hybrids in the wild. He mentions a standing $1,500 reward for genetic proof of a wild F1 hybrid that has never been claimed. Breeding Cycles: The absence of wild hybrids is largely due to mismatched breeding cycles (dogs breed twice a year, coyotes once) and behavioral differences, as coyotes typically view dogs as threats or food rather than mates. Misidentification: Steven explains that most animals identified as "coydogs" are actually color phases of coyotes or domestic dog mixes like German Shepherds or Huskies. Segment 3: Hunting Consulting with Wade Derby Guest: Wade Derby of Crosshair Consulting. Consulting Services: Wade explains his role as a consultant who connects hunters with vetted outfitters worldwide. He emphasizes that he personally visits locations—from Africa to Saskatchewan—to ensure quality experiences. Booking Advice: Wade advises hunters to plan trips well in advance, particularly for species like antelope in Wyoming and New Mexico, where tag draws occur early in the year. He notes that now is the time to finalize plans for fall hunts. Segment 4: Trinity River White Bass Report Guest: David Cox of Palmetto Guide Service. River Conditions: David reports that the Trinity River above Lake Livingston is currently low, clear, and lacking strong current due to recent freezing weather and low rainfall. Magnum Sand Bass: Despite the slow current, they are catching large "magnum" white bass (sand bass) in the 2-pound range. These fish are staging in deep holes. Trolling Tactics: To target these deep fish, David recommends trolling slowly with heavy lures like 3/4 oz Rat-L-Traps in 25–30 feet of water.

    57 min

  2. FEB 7

    20 Years of Campfire Talk!, Hunting the Sonoran Desert, Trophy Blue Cats, & Sausage Making at Home!

    Segment 1: Campfire Talk — A 20-Year Milestone Luke is joined by legendary outdoorsman Larry Weishuhn ("Mr. Whitetail") to celebrate a significant anniversary. Celebrating 20 Years: The duo reflects on their two decades of doing the radio show together. DSC Convention Recap: Larry shares highlights from the Dallas Safari Club (DSC) Convention held in Atlanta. The Energy of the Community: They discuss the "family reunion" atmosphere of the convention, where hunters and outfitters from around the world gathered to reconnect. Segment 2: Hunting the Sonoran Desert with Larry Weishuhn Larry returns to dive deeper into late-season hunting opportunities and international adventures. Mule Deer in Mexico: The discussion shifts to hunting giant Mule Deer and Coues Deer in Sonora, Mexico. The "Gentleman's Hunt": They describe the "high-racking" style of hunting—spotting game from high seats on trucks before proceeding with a stalk on foot. Travel and Safety: Larry addresses common misconceptions about hunting in Mexico, emphasizing that rural hunting areas are professionally managed and safe for US travelers. Segment 3: Trophy Blue Catfish with Tony Pennebaker Professional guide Tony Pennebaker joins the show to share expert insights on the "Catfish Capital of Texas," Lake Tawakoni. Prime Trophy Season: Tony notes that while big blue catfish can be caught year-round, the peak season for 60-plus pound "trophy" fish is currently underway (running October through March). Techniques for Success: Drifting with Shad: The most effective winter method involves making long drifts using freshly caught shad as bait. Shallow Water Shifts: They discuss how eater-size blues are often found in shallower water as the weather begins to transition. Tony P's Punch Bait: The conversation highlights Tony’s own effective punch bait, which is a staple for both guides and bank fishermen on Tawakoni. Segment 4: The Art of Home Sausage Making Luke wraps up the show by turning the focus to processing game meat and filling the freezer. Bulk Sausage Basics: Luke explains that making high-quality sausage at home is "not rocket science" but requires the right fat-to-lean ratio (recommending an 80/20 mix). Essential Gear: For those starting out, Luke suggests simple tools like a hand-crank grinder and a large mixing bowl. Variety and Blends: Beyond Breakfast Sausage: Luke shares how he creates specialized blends for chorizo, Italian sausage for spaghetti, and bratwurst. Winter Comfort Food: The segment concludes with tips for using venison trimmings to ensure nothing goes to waste while keeping the family well-fed during the cold months.

    54 min

  3. JAN 31

    Mr. Whitetail's Hunting Adventures, Jeff Rice Braves Fishing the Northern Waters, Winter Stripers on Texoma, And Camp Chili Cooking!

    Segment 1: Campfire Talk with Larry Weishuhn Luke is joined by his long-time hunting companion, Larry Weishuhn, for their weekly "Campfire Talk." Upcoming Events: Larry shares that he is heading to the Dallas Safari Club (DSC) Convention in Atlanta, Georgia (February 6–8). Winter Fishing Plans: The duo discusses the upcoming White Bass run in the Sabine River and the 7th Annual Outdoor Rendezvous in Greenville, TX. Cormorant "Splattin" for Catfish: Luke recounts a recent trip to Lake Ray Hubbard with guide Brandon Sargeant. They used a technique called "splatting" near cormorant roosts, where the natural chum from the birds attracts large blue catfish. Success on the Water: Luke successfully filleted 37 blue catfish, ranging from 2 to 10 pounds, resulting in five gallons of fresh fish. Segment 2: Winter Striper Fishing with Bill Carey Luke welcomes Bill Carey from Striper Express to discuss the peak of the big fish season on Lake Texoma. Prime Season: January and February are the best months for targeting trophy-sized Stripers before they begin grouping up to run upriver in March. Techniques & Lures: The Roadrunner Jig: A staple for 40 years, typically a 1/2 oz white head tipped with a 7-inch white curl-tail worm. Subtle Action: Carey emphasizes using curl-tails or flukes rather than high-vibration paddle-tails, as the fish's metabolism slows down in cold water. The "Time Release" Hookset: In winter, the bite is subtle—often just a one-inch twitch of the rod tip as the fish "sucks in" the bait. Nature’s Cues: While birds are great fish-finders, they can be "liars" in mid-January as they dip for bait pushed to the surface by cold water rather than active feeding frenzies. Segment 3: Ice Fishing and Pike Spearing with Jeff Rice Jeff Rice calls in to report on a brutal but successful trip to the frozen north. Extreme Conditions: Jeff faced temperatures of 12°F below zero with a wind chill reaching -45°F. Walleye Fishing: Fishing in an "ice shanty," the team used live sonar (LiveScope) to watch Walleyes react to tiny jigging spoons in about 7 feet of water. Spearing Northern Pike: Jeff checked a major item off his bucket list by spearing a 39-inch Northern Pike. The process involves waiting over a rectangular hole in the ice and using a decoy to lure the fish in. The heavy 7-barbed spear must be tethered to the hunter's arm and aimed precisely behind the gill plates. Segment 4: Luke’s Smoked Winter Chili Recipe Luke closes the show with his signature method for making winter chili, stressing that the secret is in the smoke. The Meat: You can use ground meat or cubed roasts (venison, pork, or wild hog). The Smoking Process: * Sizzle the meat on a propane burner until gray, then move it to an electric smoker (like a Smokin-Tex). Smoke the meat uncovered in a cast-iron Dutch oven for about an hour using hickory or pecan wood. Ingredients: Add tomatoes, finely chopped onions, jalapeños, and the Wicks Fowler seasoning kit (or a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic, and paprika). The Finish: Luke adds kidney beans and a touch of sugar, then lets the chili slow-cook at 225°F to allow the flavors to blend.

    55 min

  4. JAN 24

    A Deep Dive into Deer Hunting, Tracking, Reading the Woods, & Hunting with Military Rifles, and More!

    Cumulative Production Summary The January 24th edition of Catfish Radio is a celebration of tradition and technique. The episode is anchored by the chemistry between Luke Clayton and Larry Weishuhn as they celebrate two decades of broadcasting, using the time to promote conservation via the Dallas Safari Club and share practical tips on home-processing venison. The middle section of the show serves as a masterclass in "The Big Woods" hunting style. Guest Randy Flannery provides a fascinating contrast to the typical Texas tree-stand hunting often discussed on the show, teaching listeners how to aggressively track bucks in the snows of Maine and why a fast-handling lever action is superior to a long-range scope in that terrain. Segment 1: Campfire Talk with Larry Weishuhn Guest: Larry Weishuhn ("Mr. Whitetail") Topic: 20th Anniversary, DSC Convention, and Sausage Making This segment kicks off a milestone celebration as Luke and Larry mark their 20th anniversary of doing the radio show together. The conversation is a mix of nostalgia and current events. Milestones & Events: They discuss the upcoming Dallas Safari Club (DSC) Convention in Atlanta, Georgia (Feb 6-8), highlighting it as a premier conservation and hunting event. Recent Hunts: Larry shares details about a successful buffalo hunt in Texas and a recent trip to the El Durangueño Ranch in Durango, Mexico. Sausage Making: With freezers full of venison, the duo shifts to a "foodie" discussion. They reminisce about "old school" sausage making—grinding meat by hand and using simple seasonings versus modern electric grinders. Luke recommends Butcher Packer Supply for casings and spices, encouraging listeners that making summer sausage and bratwurst at home is easier than it seems. Segment 2: Tracking Deer in the North Woods Guest: Randy Flannery (Master Guide, North Woods of Maine) Topic: The Art of Tracking vs. Blood Trailing Luke travels (virtually) to the North Woods of Maine to speak with legendary tracker Randy Flannery. This segment focuses on the technical skills required to track live deer in snow. Tracking Defined: Randy distinguishes between "blood trailing" (finding a wounded animal) and true "tracking" (pursuing a healthy, moving buck to jump-shoot him). Buck vs. Doe Tracks: Randy explains a key physiological difference: Does are built narrower in the front, creating a track pattern that looks like a straight line. Bucks have a wider chest, causing their front tracks to be "staggered" or wider than their rear tracks. Aging a Track: He shares a "fist test" method for aging tracks in the snow. By making a fist print next to the deer track and comparing how the snow crystals degrade or freeze over time, a tracker can estimate how fresh the sign is. Segment 3: Reading the Woods & Fast Shooting Guest: Randy Flannery (Continued) Topic: Deer Behavior, Spotting Game, and Lever Action Rifles Continuing the conversation with Randy Flannery, this segment dives into the behavior of a pressured buck and the equipment needed in the thick Maine woods. Reading Behavior: Randy explains that when a buck starts "zigzagging" or meandering, he is looking for a place to bed down. This is the moment for the hunter to slow down. The Horizontal Line: A pro-tip for spotting deer in dense forests: Don't look for the whole deer. Look for the "horizontal line" of a deer's back, which stands out against the vertical lines of the trees. Firearms: The discussion turns to guns. Randy prefers open-sight lever actions (specifically the Winchester Model 94 or 1886) for their speed in brushy country. He notes that in Maine, hunters brag about the weight of the dressed deer (200+ lbs) rather than the antler score. Segment 4: Sporterizing Military Rifles Guest: Dustin Warncke (Show Producer & Host of Dustin’s Projects) Topic: Hunting with Surplus Military Rifles Producer Dustin Warncke joins Luke to discuss the hobby of collecting and modifying ("sporterizing") vintage military rifles for modern hunting. The Rifles: They discuss classic platforms like the Mosin Nagant, Mauser, and Enfield. Dustin notes that while some collectors are purists, modifying a damaged or common-stock military rifle is a budget-friendly way to get a reliable high-power hunting rig. Modern Optics on Old Guns: Dustin explains the challenge of mounting scopes on top-ejecting rifles. He recommends "scout mounts" (like those from Bad Ace Tactical) that replace the rear sight leaf, allowing for a long-eye-relief scope without the need to drill and tap the receiver. Sourcing Ammo: They touch on the availability of ammo for obscure calibers, recommending SGAmmo for finding rounds like 7.62x54R or 8mm Mauser.

    53 min

  5. JAN 17

    Mule Deer Hunting in Old Mexico, Late Season Deer Hunting, and Luke's Outdoor Cooking Tips

    Cumulative Summary The January 17th edition of Catfish Radio offers a blend of local Texas flavor and international hunting adventure. The episode begins with the familiar camaraderie of Luke Clayton and Larry Weishuhn, grounding the show in the local hunting community's recent gathering at the Dallas Safari Club. This sets a tone of connection and shared passion for the outdoors. The core of the episode (Segments 2 and 3) transports the listener to the Sonoran Desert of Mexico. Guest Wade Derby provides an expert's perspective on destination hunting, breaking down the allure of giant Mule Deer and the elusive Coues Deer. Crucially, he dismantles common fears regarding travel and safety in Mexico, framing it as an accessible and professionally managed adventure for US hunters. The show concludes in Segment 4 with a return to "home base," as Luke provides actionable tips for local winter fishing and comfort food cooking. The production moves smoothly from high-adventure dream hunts to practical, everyday outdoor living, catering to a wide range of sportsmen—from the trophy hunter to the weekend angler and camp cook. Segment 1: Campfire Talk with Larry Weishuhn Guest: Larry Weishuhn ("Mr. Whitetail") Topic: DSC Convention Recap & Late Season Hunting Luke and Larry kick off the show catching up after the Dallas Safari Club (DSC) Convention. Convention Recap: They discuss the energy of the DSC convention, highlighting how great it is to reconnect with old friends and outfitters from around the world. Larry notes that despite the crowds, it felt like a family reunion for the hunting community. Late Season Opportunities: The conversation shifts to the field. Larry reminds listeners that even though mid-January marks the end of general deer season for many, there is still plenty of hunting to be done. He mentions upcoming opportunities for exotics and hogs, emphasizing that the hunting season in Texas never truly ends. Weather Talk: They touch on the bitterly cold weather sweeping through, discussing how it affects game movement and the hardiness required for late-season hunts. Segment 2: Mule Deer Hunting in Sonora, Mexico Guest: Wade Derby (Hunt Consultant, Crosshair Consulting) Topic: Giant Mule Deer of the Sonoran Desert Luke introduces Wade Derby, a veteran hunt consultant, to discuss one of the holy grails of North American hunting: Sonoran Mule Deer. The Attraction: Wade explains why Sonora is legendary—it produces mule deer with massive antlers, often exceeding 30 inches wide. He describes the unique desert terrain which allows for spot-and-stalk hunting. The Experience: They discuss the style of hunting, which involves "high-racking" (riding in high seats on trucks to spot game) and then stalking on foot. Wade emphasizes that this is a "gentleman's hunt" where you see lots of game, but patience is key to finding a trophy buck. Genetics & Management: Wade touches on how the ranches in Sonora manage their herds to allow bucks to reach full maturity, contributing to the region's reputation for record-book deer. Segment 3: Logistics and Mixed Bag in Mexico Guest: Wade Derby (Continued) Topic: Coues Deer, Safety, and Travel Continuing the discussion on Mexico, Luke and Wade dig into the logistics and other species available south of the border. Coues Deer: Beyond the giant mule deer, Wade highlights the Coues Whitetail, known as the "Grey Ghost." He describes the challenge of hunting these small, elusive deer in the higher elevations of the desert mountains. Safety Perception vs. Reality: Wade addresses the common concern about safety in Mexico. He reassures listeners that the hunting areas in Sonora are rural, peaceful, and heavily managed by outfitters who prioritize client safety. He states that the trouble spots often seen in the news are far removed from the hunting grounds. Travel Logistics: They discuss the ease of flying into Hermosillo and the professionalism of the outfitters in handling gun permits and transportation, making the trip relatively stress-free for American hunters. Segment 4: Wrap Up & Outdoor Cooking Guest: Luke Clayton (Solo/Wrap-up) Topic: Winter Fishing & Comfort Food Luke wraps up the show by shifting gears from international travel to local outdoor activities and cooking. Winter Fishing: Luke gives a brief report on the local fishing scene. He mentions that despite the cold, catfish and crappie bites can be excellent if you brave the elements, specifically targeting deep water structure. Cooking Tip: Closing on a culinary note, Luke shares a simple, hearty idea for venison stew or chili to warm up after a cold day outdoors. He emphasizes slow cooking to tenderize the meat and using basic root vegetables.

    51 min

  6. JAN 10

    Dead Sticking Stripers, Late Season Deer Campfires, Wild Hog Buying, & Funny Hunting Stories

    Cumulative Summary The January 10th edition of Catfish Radio provides a comprehensive look at winter outdoor opportunities in Texas and beyond. The show balances the serious aspects of conservation and commerce with the pure enjoyment of the sport. It begins with the camaraderie of Segment 1, grounding the listener in the current season's deer hunting context and the industry excitement surrounding the DSC Convention. Segment 2 shifts to the water, offering actionable, technical advice from Bill Carey on winter striper fishing, proving that fishing season doesn't end when the temperature drops. Segment 3 introduces a fascinating economic angle to wildlife management, explaining how the commercial hog market works and how it aids in controlling the invasive population. Finally, Segment 4 lightens the mood with Luke's storytelling, ending the hour on a high note that celebrates the fun and often funny reality of spending time in the wild. The episode successfully covers land, water, business, and humor, appealing to a broad spectrum of outdoor enthusiasts. Here is the summary for the Catfish Radio broadcast from January 10th, featuring host Luke Clayton, co-host Larry Weishuhn, and guests Bill Carey and Mark Lumus. Segment 1: Campfire Talk with Larry Weishuhn Guest: Larry Weishuhn ("Mr. Whitetail") Topic: Late Season Deer and the DSC Convention Luke and Larry open the show with their signature "Campfire Talk," focusing on the transition into the new year and late-season hunting opportunities. Weather and Deer Movement: They discuss the colder winter weather and how it impacts deer behavior, noting that while the rut is winding down, food sources are now the primary driver for deer movement. Dallas Safari Club (DSC) Convention: Larry provides a preview (or recap, depending on timing) of the DSC Convention. They emphasize the importance of this massive gathering for hunters, conservationists, and outfitters, describing it as a "must-attend" event for anyone passionate about the outdoors. Reflections: The duo shares thoughts on the past season, grateful for the memories made, and look forward to the spring hunting seasons approaching. Segment 2: Winter Striper Fishing on Lake Texoma Guest: Bill Carey (Guide, Striper Express) Topic: Deadsticking and Winter Tactics Luke welcomes veteran fishing guide Bill Carey from Lake Texoma to discuss the specialized techniques required for catching Striped Bass in the dead of winter. The "Deadsticking" Technique: Bill explains the art of "deadsticking," a popular winter method where lures are suspended motionless (or with very subtle movement) in the water column to mimic stunned or lethargic shad in cold water. The Bite: He describes the winter bite as subtle but rewarding. The fish are often schooled up tight, and once you find them, the action can be fast. Conditions: Bill notes that despite the cold, winter fishing on Texoma can be incredibly productive because the fish are concentrated. He advises anglers to trust their electronics to locate the bait balls, as the stripers will be close by. Segment 3: The Business of Wild Hogs Guest: Mark Lumus (Wild Hog Buyer) Topic: Trapping and Selling Feral Hogs In this segment, Luke interviews Mark Lumus to shed light on the commercial side of feral hog management—buying live hogs from trappers. Market Dynamics: Mark explains the process of buying wild hogs from landowners and trappers. He discusses the current demand and how prices fluctuate based on the weight and condition of the animals. Logistics & Regulations: They touch on the specific regulations regarding the transport of live feral hogs in Texas. Mark clarifies that hogs must be taken to approved holding facilities and cannot be released elsewhere, highlighting the role this industry plays in population control. Economic Incentive: The conversation illustrates how selling trapped hogs can help landowners offset the cost of feed and damage caused by these invasive animals, turning a pest problem into a small revenue stream. Segment 4: A Funny Hog Hunting Story Guest: Luke Clayton (Storytelling) Topic: The Lighter Side of Hog Hunting Luke closes the show by recounting a humorous personal experience from a past hog hunt, illustrating that things don't always go as planned in the woods. The Setup: Luke sets the scene of a hog hunt involving a night vision setup or a specific blind location where he expected an easy harvest. The Mishap: He details the comedic turn of events—likely involving equipment malfunction, a spooked sounder of hogs, or a case of mistaken identity in the dark—that resulted in a memorable "failure" rather than a full freezer. The Lesson: The story serves as a reminder to not take oneself too seriously and to enjoy the unpredictability of nature. Luke wraps up the episode encouraging listeners to get outdoors, whether fishing for stripers or chasing hogs.

    55 min

  7. JAN 3

    Worldwide Hunting Adventures, Big Bore Airgun Hunts, Mr. Whitetails Hunting Notes, & More!

    Show Notes: Catfish Radio with Luke Clayton Date: January 3, 2026 Episode Summary To kick off the new year, Luke and Larry Weishuhn discuss the onset of the deer breeding season in South Texas. The show then welcomes Wade Derby from Crosshair Consulting for a two-part discussion on booking bucket-list adventures, ranging from Alaska to Africa. Finally, Luke wraps up the hour with a solo segment on the growing world of big-bore airgun hunting, sharing tips on getting within range of game. Segment 1: Campfire Talk with Larry Weishuhn Topic: The Rut in South Texas & Late Season Strategies. Discussion: Larry "Mr. Whitetail" Weishuhn joins Luke to report on the "second rut" occurring in North Texas and the primary rut just kicking off in the brush country of South Texas. Field Notes: Larry shares a story about rattling in a buck recently and emphasizes that despite the calendar turning to January, the hunting season is far from over. He notes that scrapes are being freshened up again and bucks are actively responding to rattling horns. Segment 2: Crosshair Consulting with Wade Derby Topic: Planning and Booking Hunts. Discussion: Wade Derby of Crosshair Consulting joins the show to explain the role of a hunting consultant. He discusses how he helps clients navigate the complex logistics of tags, travel, and outfitter selection. Featured Hunts: The conversation touches on accessible hunts for the "working man," such as black bear hunting, which Wade notes is a fantastic and affordable adventure compared to high-dollar sheep hunts. Segment 3: Worldwide Hunting with Wade Derby Topic: International Adventures & The "Bucket List". Discussion: Wade continues the conversation by shifting focus to international destinations. They discuss the appeal of African safaris, particularly for plains game like kudu and impala, which remain a high-value option for hunters. Insight: Wade advises listeners to stop putting off their dream hunts ("someday I'll go"), encouraging them to book now while health and opportunity align, rather than waiting for a perfect moment that might never come. Segment 4: Airgun Hunting with Luke Clayton Topic: The Challenge of Big Bore Airguns. Discussion: Luke closes the show discussing his passion for hunting with big bore air rifles (specifically .45 and .50 caliber). He explains that unlike long-range centerfire rifles, airguns require getting close—typically within 75 to 100 yards. Technique: Luke describes the satisfaction of the stalk and the necessity of getting "bow range" close, which brings the excitement of the hunt back to the basics of woodsmanship. Sponsors & Mentions Smokin Tex Electric Smokers: smokintex.com Butcher Packer Supply: butcher-packer.com Catfish Radio: catfishradio.org Crosshair Consulting: crosshairconsulting.com

    52 min

  8. 12/27/2025

    Winter Deadsticking, Sporterized Military Hunting Rifles, Campfire Chat with Mr. Whitetail, & Filming Your Own Hunts!

    Show Notes: Catfish Radio with Luke Clayton Date: December 27, 2025 Hosts: Luke Clayton & Larry Weishuhn Episode Summary In this final show of 2025, Luke and Larry Weishuhn (“Mr. Whitetail”) gather around the radio campfire to discuss late-season deer movement and high-tech optics. The show also features deep dives into vintage military rifles for modern hunting, winter fishing techniques on Lake Tawakoni, and the challenges of filming hunts through digital scopes. Segment 1: Campfire Talk with Larry Weishuhn Topic: Late-season deer hunting and optics. Discussion: Larry Weishuhn joins Luke to discuss the effectiveness of Stealth Vision optics and the growing popularity of thermal scopes for hog and predator hunting. Field Notes: Larry shares observations from recent hunts, noting that while acorn crops were heavy early in the season, deer are now returning to feeders and food plots as natural forage depletes. They also discuss the upcoming DSC Convention in Atlanta in February. Segment 2: Vintage Firepower with Dustin Warncke Topic: Hunting with sporterized military rifles. Discussion: Dustin Warncke discusses the history and value of “sporterized” military surplus rifles. Featured Firearm: Dustin highlights his recent acquisition of a 1916 Spanish Mauser in 7mm, explaining how these affordable, historic rifles can still be highly effective and accurate hunting tools when paired with modern optics. Segment 3: Winter Fishing on Lake Tawakoni with Brett Kilmer Topic: "Deadsticking" for sand bass and hybrids. Discussion: Guide Brett Kilmer explains the winter technique of deadsticking—holding a lure completely still in the water column to mimic stunned shad in cold water. Technique: Brett details using heavy 1-ounce jigs (often white or chartreuse) and "thumping" the bottom of the boat to attract schools of fish under the boat in 25–40 feet of water. Segment 4: Filming the Hunt with Jeff Rice Topic: Videography and late-season buck behavior. Discussion: Videographer and producer Jeff Rice talks about using digital scopes like the ATN X-Sight to film hunts directly from the rifle. Field Notes: Jeff recounts a recent encounter with a massive, old buck that managed to evade the camera despite being within 40 yards, highlighting the challenges of capturing the perfect shot on film versus just harvesting the animal. Sponsors & Mentions Smokin Tex Electric Smokers: smokintex.com Butcher Packer Supply: butcher-packer.com Choctaw Hunting Lodge: choctawhuntinglodge.com Pyramid Air: pyramydair.com CVA Muzzleloaders: cva.com Vineyard Max: vineyardmax.net Dash for Cash Pawn: Seagoville, TX

    56 min
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About

Luke Clayton has been an outdoors writer for almost four decades and his byline appears in many different outdoor publications. Luke also pens a weekly outdoors column that runs in 41 Texas newspapers. For the past 15 years, Luke has hosted his radio show, CATFISH RADIO with Luke Clayton and friends which currently airs on 32 terrestrial radio stations and now as a weekly podcast right here on your favorite podcast app! Larry Weishuhn, aka “Mr. Whitetail” has shared a segment of the show with Luke since shortly after the show first aired. Topics are varied each week with four guests talking about everything from catching stripers at Lake Texoma on the Texas/Oklahoma border to hunting wild hogs to shooting and hunting with big-bore airguns. So each week, it’s a good bet Luke and his guest will hit on your favorite topic or discuss something you will be interested in. Luke frequently wraps up the show with “A visit with Luke” where he gives an account of a recent outdoor adventure. There’s always a bit of outdoor cooking talk in every show. Luke has enjoyed camp cooking and especially using his Dutch Kettles outside over embers from a campfire for most of his adult life. For several years, Luke wrote an outdoor cooking column for a major Texas newspaper and he weaves outdoor recipes into many of his newspaper columns as well as here on his podcast. So, settle back, turn the volume up, and see where Luke and his guests take you this week. A new radio show airs each week and the current show will be hosted right here.

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