Science of Fishing

Mark Farag

Welcome to 'The Science of Fishing', where you'll listen and learn from the best in the fishing industry to improve your skills and listen some great stories! Every week, we delve into the exciting world of fishing, with expert guests, tips and tricks, and exciting stories from the water. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, 'The Science of Fishing' has something for everyone.

  1. Can Your Livewell Cost You Fish? Alex Plick of Wicked Wells Breaks It Down

    5d ago

    Can Your Livewell Cost You Fish? Alex Plick of Wicked Wells Breaks It Down

    This week on The Science of Fishing, we sit down aboard Bad Company with Alex Plick of Wicked Wells to talk live bait performance, offshore innovation, and the technology helping serious anglers stay competitive. From pressurized livewells and bait longevity to fiberglass pump boxes and bilge safety, Alex breaks down what separates Wicked Wells from traditional systems and why more tournament and charter boats are making the switch. We dive into the real-world advantages of keeping bait healthier longer, how premium livewell systems can impact tournament success, and why eliminating corrosion and improving safety below deck matters just as much as what’s happening at the surface. Alex also shares stories from the tournament trail and talks Walker’s Cay, the Lights Out crew, and what makes the Bahamas such a special fishery. If you’re serious about offshore fishing, live bait management, and building a better boat, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.REEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: markfarag@thescienceoffishing.comFOLLOW SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

    21 min
  2. Blue Marlin, Sonar Wars & Tournament Pressure

    May 15

    Blue Marlin, Sonar Wars & Tournament Pressure

    On this episode of Science of Fishing, we sit down with tournament standout Blaine Birch to break down one of the most dominant offshore fishing seasons in recent memory. After a year that included wins in nearly every major tournament they entered, Blaine shares what it takes to consistently stay on top in the ultra-competitive world of blue marlin and white marlin fishing.We dive into sonar technology, tournament decision-making, reading bird life and water conditions, and how modern offshore crews are using teamwork and preparation to gain an edge. Blaine also talks about fishing legendary areas like the Hudson Canyon, Wilmington Canyon, Oregon Inlet, and the Northeast tuna grounds while reflecting on how offshore fishing has evolved over the years.From big money tournament pressure to the debate over whether sonar is changing the sport forever, this episode is packed with insight for anyone obsessed with marlin fishing, tuna fishing, and competitive offshore angling.REEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: markfarag@thescienceoffishing.comFOLLOW SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

    17 min
  3. Blue Marlin, Sonar Wars & Tournament Pressure with Blaine Birch

    May 15

    Blue Marlin, Sonar Wars & Tournament Pressure with Blaine Birch

    On this episode of Science of Fishing, we sit down with tournament standout Blaine Birch to break down one of the most dominant offshore fishing seasons in recent memory. After a year that included wins in nearly every major tournament they entered, Blaine shares what it takes to consistently stay on top in the ultra-competitive world of blue marlin and white marlin fishing.We dive into sonar technology, tournament decision-making, reading bird life and water conditions, and how modern offshore crews are using teamwork and preparation to gain an edge. Blaine also talks about fishing legendary areas like the Hudson Canyon, Wilmington Canyon, Oregon Inlet, and the Northeast tuna grounds while reflecting on how offshore fishing has evolved over the years.From big money tournament pressure to the debate over whether sonar is changing the sport forever, this episode is packed with insight for anyone obsessed with marlin fishing, tuna fishing, and competitive offshore angling.REEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: markfarag@thescienceoffishing.comFOLLOW SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

    17 min
  4. From the Cockpit to the Chair: Inside a Father-Daughter Sportfishing Dynasty

    May 8

    From the Cockpit to the Chair: Inside a Father-Daughter Sportfishing Dynasty

    In this episode of The Science of Fishing, we sit down with the team behind the Louisiana Canyons to break down what it really takes to compete at the highest level of sportfishing. From high-stakes tournament pressure to seven-hour battles in the chair, this conversation dives into the mindset, preparation, and experience that separate good crews from great ones. We also explore a unique dynamic in the sport—a father coaching from the bridge while his daughter fights some of the biggest fish in the world. From early days learning the ropes to landing marlin on the biggest stages, their story is one of trust, repetition, and relentless improvement. Plus, we get into the evolution of their team, the business side of sportfishing, and what it means to now step into ownership within the league. If you want to understand how elite anglers stay calm under pressure and consistently cash checks in major tournaments, this episode breaks it all down. REEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: markfarag@thescienceoffishing.comFOLLOW SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

    13 min
  5. From Jersey Shore Kid to Offshore Tournaments | Chasing Blue Marlin Dreams

    May 1

    From Jersey Shore Kid to Offshore Tournaments | Chasing Blue Marlin Dreams

    In this episode of The Science of Fishing, we sit down with a Rhode Island-based angler to break down what it really takes to compete in today’s offshore tournament scene. From humble beginnings fishing stripers and fluke along the Jersey shore to chasing blue marlin in the Bahamas, this conversation dives deep into the progression of a serious fisherman.We get into the excitement and pressure of traveling tournament circuits, how crews prepare for unfamiliar waters like Charleston and the Bahamas, and why blue marlin fishing stands out as one of the most electrifying experiences in the sport. Along the way, there are stories of once-in-a-lifetime encounters, including a massive blue marlin that pushed the limits of what’s possible offshore.Whether you’re chasing tuna up north or dreaming about big game fishing in warmer waters, this episode gives you a real look at the mindset, strategy, and passion behind competitive fishing at the highest level.REEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: markfarag@thescienceoffishing.comFOLLOW SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

    7 min
  6. Apr 17

    How Garrett Frazier Built a $2.6M Winning Crew in 3 Years

    In this episode of The Science of Fishing, we sit down with Garrett Frazier, owner and angler of the Third Coast Renegades, to break down how a newly built crew turned into one of the most competitive teams in offshore fishing—and cashed a $2.6 million tournament payday.Garrett shares how the Renegades went all in, building a traveling program that pushed their limits across the Gulf, Costa Rica, and Baja, compressing years of experience into just a few seasons. From dialing in crew roles to trusting elite captain Drake Sawyer and a battle-tested cockpit, this conversation reveals how preparation, adaptability, and mindset translate directly into results at the highest level.We also dive into tournament strategy, risk management, and what it means to compete for life-changing money, along with Garrett’s philosophy on leadership, investing in your crew, and building a culture with no egos. Beyond fishing, Garrett brings an entrepreneurial background as co-founder of Magnifico Media, applying business principles and brand-building to the sport fishing world.The Third Coast Renegades represent more than just a team—they’re part of a new era of offshore fishing, where competition, media, and opportunity are growing faster than ever.SUPPORT OUR SPONSORSBloody Battery: https://www.bloodybattery.comShady Rays: https://www.shadyrays.com (use code SCIENCE for 35% off)E-Sea Rider Marine Bean Bags: https://www.eseaerider.comREEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: markfarag@thescienceoffishing.comFOLLOW SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

    22 min
  7. What Separates Average Anglers from Elite Captains | Stuart Lackey

    Apr 10

    What Separates Average Anglers from Elite Captains | Stuart Lackey

    In this episode of The Science of Fishing, we sit down with Captain Stuart Lackey of the South Carolina Outcast to break down what it takes to consistently stay on billfish in one of the most competitive fisheries on the East Coast. With decades of experience fishing out of Charleston, Stuart shares how offshore fishing has evolved from the early days to today’s technology-driven approach, and why understanding timing, location, and conditions is more important than ever. From dialing in seasonal patterns at home to making long runs up north and chasing world-class bites in Costa Rica, he walks through how top captains make the decisions that keep them on fish. The conversation also dives into tournament strategy, the importance of communication between boats, and how repetition builds confidence when opportunities are limited. As Stuart looks toward stepping back from full-time fishing, he reflects on bringing his sons into the sport and what it means to pass down a lifetime of knowledge on the water. SUPPORT OUR SPONSORSBloody Battery: https://www.bloodybattery.comShady Rays: https://www.shadyrays.com (use code SCIENCE for 35% off)E-Sea Rider Marine Bean Bags: https://www.eseaerider.comREEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: markfarag@thescienceoffishing.comFOLLOW SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

    16 min
  8. How Offshore Captains Adapt to Changing Sailfish Bites | Captain JC Cleare

    Apr 3

    How Offshore Captains Adapt to Changing Sailfish Bites | Captain JC Cleare

    In this episode of The Science of Fishing, Captain JC Cleare breaks down what it takes to stay competitive through the grind of the South Florida tournament circuit. Coming off a win at the Tournament of Champions, JC walks through how his team approaches back-to-back events, adapts to changing bite patterns, and prepares for a packed schedule stretching from Miami to Key West and up the East Coast.We dive into the current sailfish bite across South Florida, why consistency has been a challenge this season, and how different regions like Palm Beach and the Keys are producing. JC also explains the strategic differences between fishing smaller center consoles versus larger sportfish boats—and why boat choice can make or break your ability to catch multiple fish in tournament conditions.SUPPORT OUR SPONSORSBloody Battery: https://www.bloodybattery.comShady Rays: https://www.shadyrays.com (use code SCIENCE for 35% off)E-Sea Rider Marine Bean Bags: https://www.eseaerider.comREEL IN SOME MERCHShop official Science of Fishing gear: https://www.thescienceoffishing.com/merchJOIN THE COMMUNITYQuestions, guest requests, or ideas?Email Mark: markfarag@thescienceoffishing.comFOLLOW SCIENCE OF FISHINGInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceoffishingTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scienceoffishingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scienceoffishingTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/scienceoffish#scienceoffishing #fishing #fishinglife

    11 min
3.9
out of 5
29 Ratings

About

Welcome to 'The Science of Fishing', where you'll listen and learn from the best in the fishing industry to improve your skills and listen some great stories! Every week, we delve into the exciting world of fishing, with expert guests, tips and tricks, and exciting stories from the water. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, 'The Science of Fishing' has something for everyone.

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