The Ozark Podcast

The Ozark Podcast
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In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker. Our guests and the information they share are especially relevant to men and women in northern Arkansas, southern Missouri, eastern Oklahoma, and southeast Kansas.

  1. 5D AGO

    Ep. 159 - Neosho Bass Panel Presentation: Science, Management, & Culture (from Historic Cane Hill Arkansas)

    In the heart of the Ozarks lies a native fish species that tells a bigger story—not just about streams and scales, but about identity, ecology, and cultural heritage. In this special episode of The Ozark Podcast, we take you inside a unique panel presentation that unites science, management, and culture to explore the past, present, and uncertain future of the Neosho Bass—a true Ozark original. Hosted at a regional conservation summit, this three-part live presentation features USGS research scientist Dr. Jim Long, Arkansas Game & Fish’s Jeremy Risley, and podcast host Kyle Veit. Together, they trace the historical discovery, genetic uniqueness, and conservation challenges facing the Neosho Bass. Support for this episode Vortex Optics - Industry-defining scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology 00:00 – Opening remarks and the unique structure of the panel 08:30 – Dr. Jim Long on the scientific origins and taxonomy of the Neosho Bass 30:00 – Jeremy Risley on the Arkansas Game & Fish strategy for Neosho conservation 44:00 – Kyle Veit: Why the Neosho Bass is more than a fish—it’s a symbol What is The Ozark Podcast? In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker. Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com

    1h 13m
  2. APR 16

    Ep. 158 - Sam Hallam & Bear Newcomb - Overcoming the Most Common Mistake of Turkey Hunting + PREVIEW of Turkey Camp

    When the redbuds bloom and the gobbles echo down the hollers, spring has officially arrived in the Ozarks. In this episode, we sit down with seasoned Turkey hunters Sam Hallam and Bear Newcomb to break down everything from pre-season scouting strategies, to reading a bird’s temperature in the moment, and how to avoid the most common mistake made by turkey hunters. Whether you’re new to Turkey hunting or looking to tag out this spring, this is your go-to guide to chasing longbeards in the Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri backcountry. Support for this episode Vortex Optics - Industry-defining scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology 00:00 – Introduction 05:40 – The toughest part of hunting Ozark turkeys 14:30 – How and when to scout: glassing fields, roosting, and road listening 25:15 – Elevation, thermals, and how topography affects Turkey movement 42:30 – The biggest mistake: walking away when a bird goes quiet 01:03:35 – Turkey camp plans and what makes it all worth it What is The Ozark Podcast? In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker. Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com

    1h 15m
  3. APR 9

    Ep. 157 - Ben Levin - Identifying Ideal Smallmouth Habitat + the BEST Rivers and Streams in Arkansas & Missouri

    Smallmouth bass are more than just a native fish—they’re the true emblem of Ozark angling. In this episode, we reconnect with expert fly fishing guide Ben Levin for a deep dive into the creeks, rivers, and strategies that define smallmouth fishing in the Ozarks. If you’ve ever wondered what separates a good smallmouth creek from a great one—or which fly patterns actually catch fish—this episode is your new go-to field guide. Book a trip with Ben: Fly South Adventures Support for this episode Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology 00:00 – Introduction 10:00 – How weather, water levels, and sunlight impact fish behavior 15:40 – What makes a great smallmouth creek 20:10 – Minnow vs. crawfish: What Ozark smallmouth are really eating 26:30 – Smallmouth as the soul of Ozark fishing 31:00 – Seasonal breakdown: pre-spawn to winter tactics 35:00 – Ben’s top 3 flies and how to fish them What is The Ozark Podcast? In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker. Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com

    45 min
  4. APR 2

    Ep. 156 - Ben Levin - Mastering the White River Caddis Hatch: When & How to Catch Trophy Brown Trout

    The White River in Arkansas has quietly become one of the premier caddis hatch destinations in the country. In this episode, fly fishing legend Ben Levin joins us for an in-depth, no-fluff masterclass on fishing the caddis hatch: how it works, why it’s exploding in popularity, and exactly how to fish it to catch both numbers and trophy browns. Whether you’re new to fly fishing or a seasoned angler looking to master a specific hatch, this episode is a deep dive into the science, art, and strategy of fly fishing the spring caddis hatch on the White River. Ben’s experience and insight are unmatched, and his storytelling brings the Ozarks to life. Book a trip with Ben: Fly South Adventures Support for this episode Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology [00:00] Why Ben keeps coming back to the Ozarks after fishing around the world [07:00] How the White River has evolved into a world-class trout fishery [10:00] Understanding the caddis hatch: history, timing, and impact of minimum flow [14:00] Why bug numbers exploded post-2011 and how it affects trout behavior [19:00] How the caddis hatch rivals those in Montana and Colorado [21:00] The full caddis lifecycle and when trout are most likely to feed [28:00] Dry fly vs. pupa patterns: what works and when [34:00] How to identify, imitate, and fish each stage of the hatch [39:00] Best months and conditions to fish the caddis hatch [42:00] Top fly patterns: The Sunday Special and buggy guide variations [45:00] Where to find the most productive hatch zones on the river [47:00] Strategy for targeting big brown trout during the hatch [52:00] The 31-inch brown trout story that landed Ben in a MeatEater article What is The Ozark Podcast? In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker. Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com

    1h 5m
  5. MAR 26

    Ep. 155 - Jon Conklin - Hook into Some Crappie and Striper this Spring + GIVEAWAY

    As spring hits full swing in the Ozarks, it's prime time to hit the water—and in this episode of The Ozark Podcast, guide Jon Conklin of FishOn Guide Service is back to help us do just that. Whether you’re targeting crappie, chasing trophy stripers, or just trying to become a better angler, Jon offers a masterclass in multi-species fishing on Beaver Lake and beyond. We also dive into conservation concerns and how increased pressure on Ozark lakes is affecting fish populations and habitat. If you're looking to fish smarter—not harder—this episode is full of practical advice for anglers at every level. Learn how to adjust your tactics for seasonal patterns, increase your hookup rates with lighter tackle, and become a more conservation-minded outdoorsman in the Ozarks. Support for this episode Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology [00:00] Why crappie are fun, delicious, and an ideal target for spring anglers [04:30] Multi-species fishing: Why it's essential for success on tough lakes like Beaver [10:00] Crappie 101: Pre-spawn vs. spawn behavior, best setups, and jig colors [15:45] How to find spawning crappie and read water clarity for success [22:00] Bu jigs, tube jigs, and when to use natural vs. bright color baits [27:00] Light-line striper fishing: Downsizing tackle to get more bites [34:00] How to fight a big striper properly and land more fish [40:30] Finding bait balls and how irregular shad patterns reveal feeding activity [45:00] Summer trolling tips for catching suspended crappie [47:15] Conservation concerns: Wake boats, shoreline erosion, and fishery decline [54:00] Why angler education and ethical fishing are crucial for the Ozarks' future What is The Ozark Podcast? In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker. Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com

    1h 5m
  6. MAR 19

    Ep. 154 - Jon Conklin - The Best Kept Secrets of Walleye Fishing: An Expert Guide's Tips for Timing, Baits, and Gear

    Walleye fishing in the Ozarks is often overlooked - but for those who know where to look and how to fish for them, the rewards are well worth the effort. In this episode of The Ozark Podcast, we sit down with walleye expert and fishing guide Jon Conklin of Fish On Guide Service to learn how to target walleye year-round in Beaver Lake and beyond. If you want to improve your walleye fishing success, this episode is essential listening. Jon’s decades of experience will help you understand walleye movement, refine your technique, and select the right gear for every season. Whether you’re fishing from a boat, the bank, or a kayak, these insights will put more walleye in your cooler. Support for this episode Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology [00:00] Introduction to Jon Conklin & his passion for teaching fishing [03:15] Why Beaver Lake is a tough but rewarding fishery [07:00] Walleye in the Ozarks: Native species & stocking efforts [10:00] Understanding walleye spawn behavior & where to find them [15:30] Pre-spawn staging: What it means and how to fish it [19:00] The #1 mistake anglers make when targeting walleye [25:00] Post-spawn tactics: When and where to target feeding walleye [32:00] Summer walleye techniques: How to adjust for warmer water [38:00] Best baits & gear for walleye fishing in the Ozarks [45:00] Expert advice for bank fishermen & kayak anglers What is The Ozark Podcast? In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker. Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com

    54 min
  7. MAR 12

    Ep. 153 - Dr. Brooks Blevins - Rediscovering Forgotten Figures, Untold Stories, and the "Unique" Ozark Dialect + ANNOUNCEMENT

    What makes the Ozarks truly special? Is it the rolling hills, the winding rivers, or the deep-rooted traditions passed down for generations? In this episode of The Ozark Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Brooks Blevins—renowned Ozark historian—to announce an exciting new show, The Old Ozarks. We talk with Dr. Blevins about his decades of research on Ozark history, the fascinating dialect of the region, and how understanding the past helps us connect to our present. Plus, we share what listeners can expect from his new podcast launching soon on The Ozark Podcast network, featuring untold stories, forgotten figures, and a deep dive into what makes the Ozarks distinct. Whether you're a lifelong Ozarker, a history buff, or someone new to the region, this episode reveals why knowing where you come from adds meaning to everyday life. From preserving old stories to understanding why your grandpa said “poke” instead of “bag,” this episode is a perfect introduction to the rich storytelling and historical exploration coming soon with The Old Ozarks podcast. Support for this episode Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Gear for the adventurous outdoorsman [00:00] Dr. Brooks Blevins on dedicating his career to Ozark history [04:00] Special announcement [08:15] How Ozark language shapes identity [13:40] The forgotten people and stories that never made it into books [19:00] How history helps us connect to the land, culture, and ourselves [29:45] Understanding uniqueness and commonality in the Ozarks [34:30] How landscapes and old farming techniques tell our history [47:00] The role of community in preserving and sharing history [53:20] How listeners can contribute stories, feedback, and corrections What is The Ozark Podcast? In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker. Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com

    1h 2m
  8. MAR 5

    Ep. 152 - A Controversial Arkansas Gumbo Recipe [REEL REACTIONS]

    If you love the intersection of wild food, land stewardship, and outdoor adventure, this episode is for you. Learn how to use bear fat in your cooking, forage native plants, and get the latest updates on community events that celebrate the Ozark lifestyle. Plus, get inspired to try your hand at creating your own Arkansas gumbo—tomatoes and all. Support for this episode Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Gear for the adventurous outdoorsman [00:00] Intro & Black Bear Bonanza recap [03:15] Viral gumbo controversy: tomatoes, bear grease, and Cajun backlash [12:00] Ancient bear bones and the science of radiocarbon dating [19:30] How bear fat transforms biscuits, gravy, and gumbo [25:40] Foraging sumac and bur oak acorns for next-level wild cooking [33:50] Trypophobia and the surprising fear of lotus pods [41:00] Hunting creek ducks during an Ozark freeze [47:10] Spring in the Ozarks: turkey season, white bass run, and upcoming events What is The Ozark Podcast? In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker. Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com

    1h 1m

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In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker. Our guests and the information they share are especially relevant to men and women in northern Arkansas, southern Missouri, eastern Oklahoma, and southeast Kansas.

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