A true insiders, behind-the-scenes look at the sport of pro fishing . Hosted by Dave Mercer, Bassmaster Emcee and Facts of Fishing host along with his limitless list of pro fishing friends and their awkwardly honest take on a fishing podcast.
S5 E200 · Wed, February 19, 2025
Bill Dance has won 7 Bassmaster events, he is a 3 time Bassmaster Angler of the Year and he even has the honour of catching the first bass ever caught in a Bassmaster tournament! The crazy part is, he did all that before he was 40 years old. At 39 years old Bill Dance retired from competition and put his full time focus into TV. Since then, he has built an Outdoors empire, creating and producing, arguably, the most successful fishing shows in history. He is a member of every fishing Hall of Fame imaginable. He has a bridge named after him, he has received an honorary doctorate from the University of Tennessee and Luke Bryan has even wrote a hit song about him. His impact on fishing will be felt for generations. All of this was fuelled by a topwater fish he caught on a Jitterbug. Bill Dance went from a Jitterbug to a fishing industry Juggernaut! He joins the 200th episode of Mercer to talk about all that and so much more.
S5 E199 · Wed, February 12, 2025
Cooper Gallant is a 3 time Bassmaster Classic qualifier, a Bassmaster Open winner, a YouTuber and a certified fishing addict. Some people choose pro angling and pro angling chooses some people. Coop is definitely the later. Without fishing he actually claims to go into withdrawal. He is obsessed with the sport and finally hoisting an Elite Series trophy. This week he joins the podcast and opens up about the topic that endlessly occupies his mind. Well at least 70% of the time.
S5 E198 · Wed, February 05, 2025
Is Jason Christie really one of the most feared men in bass fishing? Not by fans of the sport but if you have to compete against him that’s a whole different story. Christie has 18 tour level wins, he has fished in 10 Bassmaster Classics and he won the Super Bowl of Bass Fishing in 2022. Not only is that resume scary, it gets even more intimidating when you realize he is going into the 2025 Bassmaster Elite Series maybe even more motivated and driven than ever before. But first, he stops by this week’s Mercer Podcast to talk about all that and so much more.
S5 E197 · Wed, January 29, 2025
I get it. The last thing the world needs is another podcast but it needs this one. Brandon Palaniuk is a former Bass Nation National Champion, he has qualified for 13 Bassmaster Classics, won 6 Bassmaster Tournaments and 2 Bassmaster Angler of the Year titles. Kyle Vandever is an outdoor videographer & producer that not only shoots the incredible BMP behind-the-scenes series but he is a world traveler. Vandy has literally walked with Silverback gorillas & swam with Humpback Whales. Together they are two of the most positive people on this planet. No matter what they are doing it’s obvious that they both believe in squeezing every ounce of joy out of life. This week they join the podcast to talk about life, struggles, success & their brand new podcast.
S5 E196 · Wed, January 22, 2025
Denny Brauer has won 17 Bassmaster tournaments, 2 Angler of the Year titles and he is the 1998 Bassmaster Classic Champion. He was the first angler ever featured on the Wheeties Box, he made two appearances on the David Letterman Show and he actually taught Ozzy Osborne how to cast! Although this Bass Fishing Hall of Famer has been away from tour level competition for over a decade, make no mistakes - Denny Brauer Can Still Kick Your bASS! He joins this week’s podcast to talk about all that and so much more.
S5 E195 · Wed, January 15, 2025
Matt Herren is a 10-time Bassmaster Classic Qualifier, a 5-time FLW Cup qualifier and a former TTBC Champion. But over the last 2 years he has quickly become one of the loudest voices against FFS. However, as this podcast will reveal, Matt has become a conflicted man with a love hate relationship with the newest technology. This week he joins the podcast to discuss his new positive outlook in 2025 and he shares his raw and honest opinion on just about everything else!
S5 E194 · Wed, January 08, 2025
Buckle up humpers because this week is another double dose of goodness. First we kick things off with the reigning and defending Bassmaster Classic Champion Justin Hamner. Then we are joined by 30 year industry veteran Rob Newell. Whether it’s been as a writer, a reporter or a photographer for over 3 decades Newell has had a front row seat to some of the most incredible moments in professional fishing. This week he joins the podcast to talk about his new book Egos, Logos & Fishing Prose. This must read tell-all memoir truly takes you behind the curtain as Rob reveals what he feels are the good, the bad and the ugly parts of pro fishing from his view point.
S5 E193 · Wed, January 01, 2025
Kevin VanDam is the most accomplished angler in the history of professional bass fishing. KVD is a 7-time Bassmaster Angler of the Year, a 4-time Bassmaster Classic Champion with a record 25 Bassmaster Wins, 4 MLF wins and a FLW Angler of the Year title. All of that adds up to over 7 million in earnings and countless records. However, competitive angling is in his rearview mirror and now KVD is focused on the transition from tournaments to television with the launch of his highly anticipated show The VanDam Experience. But first he joins the podcast to talk about all that and so much more.
S4 E277 · Wed, December 18, 2024
It’s the Mercer Podcast Festive Special and it’s a good one! What Pat Summerall and John Madden were to Football, Tommy Sanders and Mark Zona are to Professional Bass Fishing. Both are individually members of the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame. But together they have a unique chemistry and an engaging connection that not only educates but it entertains. This week T & Z join the podcast and reunite for a candid conversation and a couple of very JUICY announcements that will make every Bassmaster fan very HAPPY!!! #TnZ
S4 E191 · Wed, December 11, 2024
Buckle up! This one gets extra SPICY! Byron Velvick is a 3 time Bassmaster winner and a 2 time Classic qualifier. He is a big bait pioneer from the west coast that has won 14 boats and a dang Rolex! He is truly one of the greatest promoters of the sport of fishing. He was once “The Bachelor” on ABC which resulted in him being a guest on every major talk show on TV. The whole time he was promoting the sport he loves….fishing. This week he returns to the podcast and shares some of the craziest real life tournament stories ever told on this show.
S4 E190 · Wed, December 04, 2024
Stone Cold Kyle Welcher is a three-time Bassmaster Classic Qualifier and the 2023 Bassmaster Angler of the Year. Welcher, a former professional gambler, is one of the brightest young stars in pro fishing. His incredible mind and unique outlook on angling is truly remarkable. This week he joins the podcast to have a very open, honest and sometimes awkward conversation where we learn he would rather eat a snake than a tomato.
S4 E261 · Wed, November 27, 2024
Jonathan VanDam is a 2 time Bassmaster winner and a 2 time Classic Qualifier. After several years competing on the Bass Pro Tour, JVD wants back to B.A.S.S. In 2025 he will voluntarily step away from MLF and he will roll the dice in the Bassmaster Opens with hopes of once again qualifying for the Elite Series. But first he joins the podcast to talk about his battle to get back to B.A.S.S. and so much more.
S4 E306 · Wed, November 20, 2024
Brent Ehrler has 9 tour-level wins including the Forest Wood Cup victory equaling an incredible 3.2 million dollars in winnings. This week the west coast legend joins the podcast for the very first time. But don’t worry, Ehrler does not hold back. He dishes the dirt on tournaments, UFOs, Sasquatches and so, so much more. Like, Comment and Click here to enter the AFTCO Reaper Bundle Giveaway! https://www.aftco.com/pages/dave-mercer-reaper-giveaway
S4 E187 · Wed, November 13, 2024
Clark Wendlandt has won an incredible 4 Angler of the Year titles. He has qualified for 6 Bassmaster Classics and 18 FLW Cups. By anyone’s standards Clark has had a Hall of Fame career. Just last week he shocked many by announcing his retirement, making him the first professional angler to step away from competition and openly admit he is leaving because he disagrees with Forward Facing Sonar. Was he Forward Forced into Retirement? This week he joins the podcast and talks about that and so, so much more on Mercer 187.
S4 E186 · Wed, November 06, 2024
B.A.S.S. rocked the fishing world by announcing no entry fee events on the 2025 Bassmaster Elite Series. Some love it, some not so much. This week we are joined by Greg Hackney, Lee Livesay & Davy Hite to dissect the good, the bad and the ugly of this monumental change in the sport.
S4 E296 · Wed, October 30, 2024
The “Hack Attack” is back. Greg Hackney is a 6 time Bassmaster winner, an 18 time Classic qualifier and the 2014 Bassmaster Angler of the Year. Hackney has won almost every title there is to win in professional bass fishing. This week he once again joins the podcast for a very candid conversation that goes absolutely everywhere.
S4 E184 · Wed, October 23, 2024
One show with 9 Bassmaster Elite Series anglers. That’s right, we pulled it off! We have all nine of the newest Elite Series qualifiers in one show! Buckle up and get ready for the Elite 9 - Easton Fothergill, Cody Meyer, Tucker Smith, Paul Marks, Emil Wagner, Andrew Loberg, Dakota Ebare, Beau Browning and Evan Kung all on one friggin' show!!!
S4 E288 · Wed, October 16, 2024
This week we once again have a double dose of goodness. First we kick things off with Logan Parks hot off his Bassmaster Elite Series rookie season & just a week after his groundbreaking NSANE tournament for high school & college anglers. He even brings on the winners; Banks Shaw & Kieran Stephenson. Then we are joined by the man more slick than an Ugly Stik, the one and only Matt Robertson. As always the 5 time Bassmaster Classic qualifier brings the heat in a crazy conversation that you will not want to miss!
S4 E182 · Wed, October 09, 2024
Byron Velvick is a 3 time Bassmaster winner and a 2 time Classic qualifier. He is a big bait pioneer from the west coast that has won 14 boats and a dang Rolex! He is truly one of the greatest promoters of the sport of fishing. He was once “The Bachelor” on ABC which resulted in him being a guest on every major talk show on TV. The whole time he was promoting the sport he loves….fishing. This week he joins the podcast and shares some of the absolute craziness that is his incredible life.
S4 E264 · Wed, October 02, 2024
First we kick things off with Bassmaster videographer Jake Latendresse with Jake’s Take. Just back from the recent Bassmaster College Classic Bracket on Tims Ford Lake in Tennessee. Then we are joined by the Frog Father - Alfred Williams is a true tournament trailblazer. Not only was he the first black angler to ever qualify for the Bassmaster Classic but he is truly an angling pioneer. Ever wonder why a frog has skirted legs? Wonder no more - Alfred did that. Just a week after being inducted into the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame the amazing Alfred Williams joins the show to talk about his life, his learnings and his legacy.
S4 E180 · Wed, September 25, 2024
In honour of Bass Fishing Hall of Fame week we have a double dose of goodness. First we kick things off with Mike McKinnis, the visionary producer that created Bassmaster LIVE & limitless list of award winning outdoor programming. Then we are joined by Skeet Reese, one of the greatest competitors in bass fishing history. Reese has 12 tour level victories including the 2009 Bassmaster Classic & the 2007 Bassmaster Angler of the Year title. Amassing over 4 million dollars in winnings making him one of the top 5 money winners in history. Both of them will be officially inducted into the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame this week, but first they stop by this week’s Mercer Podcast.
S4 E179 · Wed, September 18, 2024
If Captain America was a pro angler, his name might just be Davy Hite. Hite left a military career to chase his dream of pro angling and what a dream career it has been. Qualifying for 14 Bassmaster Classics, winning 2 Bassmaster Angler of the Year titles and 9 major tournament victories - including the 1998 Forrest Wood Cup and 1999 Bassmaster Classic. In 2017, after a Hall of Fame career, Davy Hite retired from competition to join the Bassmaster broadcast team. This week, Davy joins the podcast and talks about the 2024 Bassmaster series, rules, rookies and real talk.
S4 E178 · Wed, September 11, 2024
You ever hear the joke about 3 Canadians walking into a bar? Us either but it sure makes for a great podcast. Cory Johnston doubled down in 2024 with 2 Elite Series victories. Not to be outdone, little bro Chris Johnston just became the first Canadian to EVER win the Progressive Bassmaster Angler of the Year title. It was a huge year for both these hockey-playing brothers from north of the border. However it was not all highlights. There were some low lights including World War Gee at the St. Lawrance River. This week the Johnston brothers belly up to the bar to talk about all that and so, so much more on the Mercer podcast.
S4 E177 · Wed, September 04, 2024
Just weeks before getting officially inducted into the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame, Mark Zona rocked the fishing world by signing off of BassLive for the final time. The incredible off the wall personality of Z has painted pictures with his words for a generation of Bassmaster fans. Why is he stepping away from a position that is seemingly perfect for him? He answers that and so much more on this week’s Mercer Podcast.
S4 E176 · Wed, August 28, 2024
For the first time since his final walk across the Bassmaster Elite Series stage, 4 time Bassmaster Classic champion Rick Clunn finally speaks. After Clunn’s legendary 5 decade career, his incredible influence is seen in every single pro fishing today. Clunn is not only a driven competitor but his silent approach and down-to-earth outlook on life has almost turned him into a mystical character in the eyes of many. Rick Clunn is a unicorn. He has always marched to the beat of his own drum. This time is no different. He may be stepping away from the Elite Series but this is far from CLUNN-clusion.
S4 E175 · Wed, August 21, 2024
Robert Gee racked up an impressive 4 top fives in 2024. On top of that he went second, third and second on his last 3 events. Gee what a start to an Elite Series career! But many recently know him more as part of an on-the-water dispute we are calling World War Gee. But first we have Jake’s Take - the ultimate behind-the-scenes Bassmaster segment with Bassmaster videographer Jake Latendresse. Just back from the 2 New York Bassmaster Elite Series events.
S4 E174 · Wed, August 14, 2024
Wes Logan is a Bassmaster Classic Qualifier and an Elite Series Champion. However, all those accolades seemed a long way off when he was riding in an ambulance after a scary boat wreck during last week’s Elite Series tournament on Lake Champlain. Many folks have talked about it but now you get to hear directly from Wes “What REALLY Happened”. Plus a whole lot more only on this week on Mercer Podcast.
S4 E173 · Wed, August 07, 2024
Justin Hamner truly lets it ALL out on this week’s show - the good, the bad and some stuff that just makes him SICK. Hamner is the reigning and defending Bassmaster Classic Champion. With just two events left in the 2024 Bassmaster Elites he is the current leader in Progressive Bassmaster Angler Of The Year points. Can Justin Hamner make history and become only the 3rd angler to ever win the Classic and AOY in the same season? Proving that 2024 truly is Hamner Time!!!
S4 E172 · Wed, July 31, 2024
Brett Hite is a 6 time Bassmaster Classic qualifier with 5 national tournament wins and almost 2 million dollars in tournament earnings. B Hite started his career as a west coast finesse angler but today you can’t talk about a bladed jig without mentioning his name. Brett Hite has arguably been more dominant with that technique than any other angler on earth. This week he joins the podcast to talk about that and a whole lot more. This is truly one of the most open and honest conversations we have ever had on this show.
S4 E171 · Wed, July 24, 2024
You never know who will show up on this show. This week we kick things off with Pat Roach, AKA Randy from Trailer Park Boys. When Pat is not playing Randy the Assistant Trailer Park Supervisor at Sunnyvale Trailer Park he loves to fish. Pat joins the podcast to talk about his love for angling, the outdoors and life. But that’s not all. Then we are joined by YouTuber, social media super star and Bassmaster Pro Ben Milliken. As always Ben tells it like he sees it, including the good, the bad and the ugly of his first season on the Bassmaster Elite Series. Pack a lunch because this one is a fun one!
S4 E170 · Wed, July 17, 2024
Joey Cifuentes is the reigning Bassmaster Elite Series Rookie of the Year. After winning two Elite Series tournaments and coming close to winning Angler of the Year in his first season. It looked like the Elites was child’s play for the cowboy. But that was last year, this year things are as different as a kaleidoscope. Call it a sophomore slump, call it what you want but Joey Cifuentes went from the top 5 in AOY standings to 102nd place. A year ago he literally had fish jumping in his boat, now they are jumping out of his livewell! How does that happen? The Cowboy joins us from the beach to answers that question as well as many more on this week’s Mercer Podcast.
S4 E169 · Wed, July 10, 2024
Who in the heck are the Derby Boys? Well, if you take four of the most colourful characters on the Bassmaster Elite Series - Seth Feider, Matt Robertson, Cory and Chris Johnston, put them all together and you have The Derby Boys. Sure they are all at the top of their game on the water and a threat to win any tournament. But what’s life really like on the road. These four promise to take viewers behind the scenes like never before with their new YouTube series. From fights to farts and everything in between The Derby Boys will bare it all. This week they join the podcast to announce their new show and to talk about well…….EVERYTHING!
S4 E168 · Wed, July 03, 2024
This is a jam-packed super show. First, we have Bassmaster videographer Jake Latendresse just back from covering of Takumi Ito’s 2nd Elite Series win. Then we are joined by Takumi himself with a first hand look at his many Japanese secrets. As if that’s not enough, finally we have an exclusive one-on-one sit down conversation with 19 year old fishing phenom Trey McKinney. The youngest Bassmaster Elite Series champion in history finally breaks his silence and shares his very raw and real thoughts on his Smith Lake disqualification.
S4 E167 · Wed, June 26, 2024
It’s Clunn-Day! 4-time Bassmaster Classic Champion, the legendary Mr. Rick Clunn stops by for his monthly visit with an eye-opening conversation that you truly won’t want to miss. But that’s not all - we are also joined by 4-time Classic Qualifier and Elite Series Champion, Takumi Ito. Taku brings his almost addictive child-like enthusiasm to the show and opens up about many things that he has never publicly spoken about before.
S4 E166 · Wed, June 19, 2024
This week we have triple the podcast for you with 3 incredible guests. First, it’s Jake’s Take with all the behind-the-scenes dirt from the Wheeler Lake Bassmaster Elite. Then we are joined by the newest Elite Series champion, the Prince of Palatka himself - Cliff Prince. As if that’s not enough, finally, we hook up with Kevin VanDam to talk about recently being a topic on one of the biggest mainstream sports shows on the planet - The Pat McAfee Show.
S4 E165 · Wed, June 12, 2024
This week we have another double dose of goodness. First, we are joined by Bassmaster Elite Series pro David Gaston, who recently caught a 831 LB record Tuna. He tells the crazy, jaw-dropping story of the 11-hour fight aboard the 66ft Fat Chick. Then we hook up with The Homeless Fishermen - Marshall Arnwine. Who tells his incredibly inspiring story that just a few years ago, had him eating out of the garbage to today, being a rapidly growing content creator in search of the next world record bass. You don’t wanna miss this episode of the Mercer podcast!
S4 E164 · Wed, June 05, 2024
He is a 6-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier, a 2-time Bassmaster winner, the 2021 Bassmaster Angler of the Year, the amazing Feider-Man, Seth Feider joins us this week as he talks about his start to the season, how White Castle once saved his life, tournament rumours, quitting smoking, the urge to pee in his front yard and so, so much more.
S4 E163 · Wed, May 29, 2024
Brandon Palaniuk is a former Bass Nation National Champion, he has qualified for 13 Bassmaster Classics, won 6 Bassmaster Tournaments and 2 Bassmaster Angler of the Year titles. But none of these incredible accomplishments were achieved without a lot of work. This week we get a unique look inside the marvellous mind of “The Prodigy” and how the words 'Liv 2 Fsh' started on his hard hat but have driven him to achieve his childhood dreams.
S4 E162 · Wed, May 22, 2024
Patrick Walters has almost never struggled since joining the Bassmaster Elite Series. When you read his list of accomplishments, it almost sounds fake for an angler that has not even completed his 6th season - 5 Bassmaster Wins, 5 Classics Fished, 24 Top 10s, 3 Century Belts as well as the Record Biggest Win Margin and the Largest Smallmouth Winning Weight EVER! Hot off his last Elite Series win on Lake Murray, Patrick joins the podcast and talks about 1400 unanswered texts, how the Elite Series rookies affect him, his A.O.Y. chances, his biggest rivals and greatest goals. This and so, so much more on this week’s Mercer Podcast.
S4 E161 · Wed, May 15, 2024
Australian Bassmaster Elite Series Champion Carl Jocumsen joins the show and really opens up about, well, EVERYTHING. One by one we break down all the spicy stories in bass fishing and try to figure out the rules that improve them in the future. But first we have another edition of Jake’s Take with Bassmaster Videographer Jake Latendresse. Warning - this episode is for entertainment purposes only. Please do not be offended by any of the stories or ideas shared in these conversations.
S4 E160 · Wed, May 08, 2024
Some call him Z, some call him Z Train, some call him Zona but almost nobody calls him Mark. Friend of the show, Mark Zona returns to the podcast and he lets loose on just about every topic you can think of. Mark Zona, the over-the-top host of Bassmaster LIVE and Zona’s Awesome Fishing Show is being inducted to the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame this September. He is truly one of the biggest names in the sport of pro fishing but none of that came without an incredible amount of work all fuelled by his tremendous love for the sport of professional fishing.
S4 E159 · Wed, May 01, 2024
Bassmaster Classic Champion Justin Hamner stops by the show to kick off his monthly podcast residency. We talk about the Florida Elite Series events, his name on a NASCAR and Roll Tide Willy. But that’s not all - next up friend of the show and Musky Master Pete Mania returns to the podcast and shares his thoughts on fishing technology and how he sees it changing musky angling, turkey hunting, prepping and much, much more.
S4 E158 · Wed, April 24, 2024
Cory Johnston just won the 4 day St Johns River Bassmaster Elite Series event in only 3 days. Not only is this the first time in history that has happened, it’s also the first Elite Series win for Cory Johnston. Hot off his win he joins the podcast and talks about winning, chirping, retiring, hunting, snagging chatter, a lie detector test and the after party (including home videos). But that’s not all! Jake’s Take - the ultimate behind-the-scenes Bassmaster segment with Bassmaster videographer Jake Latendresse returns and we talk about everything that happened both on and off the water at the St Johns River tournament. His incredible two days with Rick Clunn during his 500th Bassmaster Tournament and two days with Greg Hackney. Yep! All that and more on this week's Mercer Podcast!
S4 E157 · Wed, April 17, 2024
Another double dose of goodness this week. First we have Jake’s Take - the ultimate behind-the-scenes Bassmaster segment with Bassmaster videographer Jake Latendresse. Just back from shooting John Garrett’s first Elite Series victory on the Harris Chain of Lakes. But that’s not all, then we are joined by trail blazing female angler Kristine Fischer. She has made an incredible impact in the competitive kayak fishing world but now she is making the move to fish the Bassmaster Opens. We talk about that transition, BassmastHER & so much more.
S4 E156 · Wed, April 10, 2024
This week we kick things off with Clunn Day! The legendary Rick Clunn returns to the show as part of his monthly podcast residency to celebrate his 50th season of Bassmaster Competition. When Rick Clunn speaks, we all learn. But that’s not all, Bassmaster Elite Series rookie & Bassmaster Open winner “The Maine Event” Tyler Williams joins the show hot off his first Bassmaster Classic and his first escalator ride!
S4 E155 · Wed, April 03, 2024
Kevin VanDam is the most accomplished angler in the history of professional bass fishing. KVD is a 7-time Bassmaster Angler of the Year, a 4-time Bassmaster Classic Champion with a record 25 Bassmaster Wins, 4 MLF wins & a FLW Angler of the Year title. All of that adds up to over 7 million in earnings & countless records. However now he has officially retired from competitive angling so what’s next? Kevin joins this week’s Mercer podcast & he addresses that as well as many other topics he has on his mind.
S4 E154 · Wed, March 27, 2024
Buckle up! It’s the Bassmaster Classic Mega Show. It’s episode 154 and we have Justin Hamner; the winner of the 54th Bassmaster Classic. Yep! We planned that from the start. Well, maybe not, but Justin Hamner did predict his win on this show two weeks ago. Hamner returns with some incredible behind-the-scenes stories. But first we have another edition of Jake’s Take with Bassmaster Videographer Jake Latendresse. This episode is like a good movie- we laugh, we cry and everything in between.
S4 E153 · Wed, March 20, 2024
It’s Classic week and what a Bassmaster Classic show we have in store for you! The last two Classic champions join the show together. That’s right - both the 2023 Champion Jeff Gustafson and the 2022 Champion Jason Christie in one episode together. For a very real, raw and honest conversation with the last two anglers to win the Super Bowl of bass fishing!
S4 E152 · Wed, March 13, 2024
This week’s Mega show has three guests with a combined 62 Classic appearances, 8 Classic wins, 9 AOYs and 241 Bassmaster Top 10’s. First, we are joined by Bassmaster Elite Series Pro Justin Hamner who recently caught the biggest bass ever caught on Bassmaster LIVE - an 11lb 7oz freak panda. Then it’s Clunn-Day, the legendary Mr. Rick Clunn stops by for his monthly visit with an eye-opening conversation that you won’t want to miss. But that’s not all! To finish out this Mega episode we have a quick visit with Kevin VanDam where he breaks the big news so many people have been waiting for. Check out KVD’s channel - https://youtube.com/@TheKevinVanDam?si=nzMhGgqT-BH2iyo5
S4 E151 · Wed, March 06, 2024
Just imagine being a 19 year old kid & winning your first Bassmaster Elite Series tournament in only your second event. Well, Trey McKinney did just that on Lake Fork this past weekend. He became the youngest Elite Series champion & took over the co-lead in Bassmaster Angler of the Year & Rookie of the Year race along with Ben Milliken. Now he joins the podcast to talk about it. But that’s not all. Jake’s Take - the ultimate behind-the-scenes Bassmaster segment with Bassmaster videographer Jake Latendresse returns & we talk about everything that happened both on and off the water at the Toledo Bend & Lake Fork tournaments. Including never before revealed info from the back deck of Kyoya Fujita , Lee Livesay, Takumi Ito, Kyle Welcher & Ben Milliken’s boat.
S4 E150 · Wed, February 28, 2024
If Captain America was a pro angler his name might just be Davy Hite. Hite left a military career to chase his dream of pro angling and what a dream career it has been. Qualifying for 14 Bassmaster Classics, winning 2 Bassmaster Angler of the Year titles and 9 major tournament victories - including the 1998 Forrest Wood Cup and 1999 Bassmaster Classic. In 2017 after a Hall of Fame career Davy Hite retired from competition to join the Bassmaster broadcast team. This week, Davy joins the podcast and opens up like many have never seen. Sharing some never publicly told stories, secrets and tournament truths in an episode we call Red, White & True!
S4 E149 · Wed, February 21, 2024
Greg Hackney is a 6 time Bassmaster winner, an 18 time Classic qualifier and the 2014 Bassmaster Angler of the Year. “The Hack Attack” has won almost every title there is to win in professional bass fishing. This week he joins the podcast for a candid conversation that goes EVERYWHERE. Get ready because this one covers Sasquatch hunting, Mardi Gras, tournament tales & the future of forward facing sonar plus just about everything in between.
S4 E148 · Wed, February 14, 2024
Matt Robertson is one of the most polarizing pro anglers in professional fishing. He is a 5- time Bassmaster Classic Qualifier and a Bassmaster Open Champion. In a very short time he has built a legion of loyal fans. Known for his signature ON ‘EM hat, his cut-off shirts, fur coats and ferocious personality. His down home thinking and don’t-give-a-crap attitude has taken the fishing world by storm. He prides himself on always telling it like he sees it & this week’s Mercer podcast is no different there Ain’t No Telling” what will come out of his mouth next.
S4 E147 · Wed, February 07, 2024
This week’s show is a reunion of friends. First we have the return of Jake’s Take - the ultimate behind-the-scenes Bassmaster segment with Bassmaster videographer Jake Latendresse. Just back from shooting Scott Martin’s record breaking Lake Okeechobee victory, he breaks down what really happened on and off the water. As if that’s not enough, it’s also Clunn Day! The legendary Rick Clunn returns to the show to start his monthly podcast residency just weeks before kicking off his incredible 50th season of Bassmaster Competition. When Rick Clunn speaks, we all learn and this conversation will have you taking notes.
S4 E146 · Wed, January 31, 2024
Jason Christie has 10 FLW wins and 8 Bassmaster wins. He is a 10 time Bassmaster Classic Qualifier and the 2022 Bassmaster Classic Champion. Christie has accumulated an incredible 4 million dollars in winnings, making him one of the most feared names in professional bass fishing. But what scares him? That question, as well as many other awkwardly honest questions are answered on this week’s Mercer Podcast.
S4 E145 · Wed, January 24, 2024
Brandon Palaniuk is a former Bass Nation National Champion, he has qualified for 13 Bassmaster Classics, won 6 Bassmaster Tournaments and 2 Bassmaster Angler of the Year titles. But none of these incredible accomplishments were achieved without a lot of work. This week we get a unique look inside the marvellous young mind of “The Prodigy” and how he gardens his goals into reality.
S4 E144 · Wed, January 17, 2024
In just four years Cory and Chris Johnston have amassed an incredibly impressive Bassmaster resume. Between them they have 37 top 10’s, 2 wins, 8 Classics fished and over 1.5 million in winnings making them some of the most successful pros on tour. But these two Canadian hockey-playing brothers are exactly what you would expect. Lots of chirping, trash-talking and behind-the-scenes tales are told on this week’s podcast. Including the time they learned that a lifetime ban is not forever…..or is it?
S4 E143 · Wed, January 10, 2024
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not that bad. Gerald Swindle is a 2-time Bassmaster Angler of the Year and has qualified for 20 Bassmaster Classics. Beyond all of his accomplishments, he is loved by fishing fans worldwide because of his humour and his heart. Swindle's one-of-a-kind personality can have you howling with laughter or humbled by a hug. This week he joins the podcast and reminds us that regardless of all the click-chasing negativity, it’s not that bad!
S4 E142 · Wed, January 03, 2024
Rick Clunn opens up about his 50 year pursuit of happiness. Sure he is a 4-time Bassmaster Classic Champion, 16-time Bassmaster winner, 32-time Classic Qualifier & a former Bassmaster AOY. Beyond all of those trophies and accolades, Rick Clunn is an absolute anomaly. What he is doing in fishing is not happening in any other sport or competitive activity on earth. At 77 years old he will kick off his 50th season competing at the top level of the sport. At a time that may be more dominated by young anglers than ever before, Rick Clunn is 5 decades into his legendary career. His incredible influence is seen in every single pro fishing today. Clunn is not only a driven competitor but his silent approach and down-to-earth outlook on life has almost turned him into a mystical character in the eyes of many. Rick Clunn is a unicorn. When tournaments are over he disappears into the tranquility and beauty of the Ozark Mountains. But this week for our first episode of 2024 Rick joins us for a very rare, very open and very candid conversation.
S3 E141 · Wed, December 20, 2023
It’s the Mercer Podcast Festive Special with a 17 year old kid that just became the youngest angler to ever qualify for the Bassmaster Classic and the voice of Bassmaster TV, the one and only Tommy Sanders. His smooth delivery and honest charm make him everyone’s friend. Just like Boxing had Howard Cosell, football had John Madden, golf has Jim Nantz, BASS Fishing has Tommy Sanders! This week he sits down for a very rare on-camera conversation that ends with a SURPRISE!
S3 E140 · Wed, December 13, 2023
This week we got 'em all - All 9 Bassmaster EQ Elite Qualifiers join the show and what a crew of young guns they are. Making up the youngest rookie class in Elite Series history are; JT Thompkins, John Garrett, Trey McKinney, Robert Gee, Tyler Williams, Wesley Gore, Logan Parks, Ben Milliken & Kyle Patrick. Lots has been said about these young pros, but this week you get to hear directly from them in our Elite Series Rookie Round Up.
S3 E139 · Wed, December 06, 2023
David Fritts has won just about everything there is to win in professional bass fishing. Including the Bassmaster Classic and the Forest Wood Cup. Fritts is already in the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame as a professional angler. But he could also be in the HOF as a bait designer. Whether it’s fishing or designing David Fritts would definitely be on the Mount Rushmore of cranking, but who else would be there? Fritts answers that question and many more on this week’s podcast. A celebration of the career that created the Fritts Blitz.
S3 E138 · Wed, November 29, 2023
Randy Blaukat has qualified for 8 Bassmaster Classics and 9 FLW Cups but he may have more people watching him today than he ever did at the height of his tournament career. Some take his word as gospel, others dismiss it as nothing more than gossip and click chasing. But Randy Blaukat and his polarizing opinions has found himself on the right side of relevancy more than a decade after his last national tournament victory. Some see him as a fearless crusader, trying to single-handedly ban forward-facing sonar - others say his thoughts are outdated and antiquated. But one thing is for sure. EVERYONE has an opinion about Randy Blaukat. This week he joins the podcast and we talk about or debate, just about EVERYTHING. Humpers get your 🍿ready. This is a good one!
S3 E137 · Wed, November 22, 2023
Jordon Lee is a fishing phenom that has succeeded at every level of competition. He is a former Bassmaster College Bass Champion, a two time Bassmaster Classic Champion, with multiple MLF wins including an Angler of the Year title. He has won over 2 million dollars and now this young legend has decided to return to the Bassmaster Elite Series. But before that, he joins this week’s podcast to talk about all that and so, so much more.
S3 E136 · Wed, November 15, 2023
Jacob Foutz is a former Bassmaster College Bass Champion, a Bassmaster Classic Qualifier & a Bassmaster Elite Series Pro. After two years on the Elite’s Foutz has had 4 top Tens including two back-to-back top Tens at the tail end of 2022 that literally saved his Elite career. From the outside it looks like he is living his childhood dream but that dream has felt like a nightmare at times when it comes to sponsor support. He is a quiet, unassuming guy, that has focused on fishing while widely ignored social media and marketing - up until now. Last week that all changed when he took to YouTube and told his truth. With his back against the wall he opened up about how he see’s his situation. Over 80,000 views later he has not only found a way to get noticed but he has left many folks debating whether his thoughts are Real Talk or Ridiculous?
S3 E135 · Wed, November 08, 2023
He is an eight time Bassmaster Classic qualifier and she is the podcast host some folks fear the most. Together they host The Bilge, one of the fastest growing fishing podcasts in the world. Chris and Trait Zaldain join this week’s podcast and as always they tell it like they see it with their unapologetically honest approach to podcasting.
S3 E134 · Wed, November 01, 2023
Lee Livesay is a 4 time bassmaster winner, 4 time classic qualifier with 2 bassmaster century belts. But before all of that he was one of the guys. This week we are joined by the Lake Fork legend and as always, he tells it like he sees it. He is loving life as a pro angler but he will remind you it’s not all popcorn, piñata’s & princesses in pro fishing.
S3 E133 · Wed, October 25, 2023
Ben Milliken is one of the biggest YouTube anglers in the game. But that was not enough for him. He wanted more-he wanted to chase his childhood dream of fishing the Bassmaster Elite Series. In one year he did what many people predicted was impossible. Not only did he win a Bassmaster Open and qualify for the Bassmaster Classic but he qualified for the Bassmaster Elite Series. This week Ben joins the podcast to talk about all of that and so much more.
S3 E132 · Wed, October 18, 2023
This week's guest is a 18-time FLW Cup Qualifier, a 6-time Bassmaster Classic Qualifier, a 4-time Angler of the Year with over $3 million dollars in winnings, Clark Wendlandt joins me this week from somewhere deep in the heart of Texas.
S3 E131 · Wed, October 11, 2023
Qualifier. This week he takes some time away from hunting to join the podcast. We chat about his early years traveling with Bassmaster Classic Champion Woo Daves, what drives him, what he would like to see changed in the tournament world and ultimately, his thoughts on the current fishing world going bananas.
S3 E130 · Wed, October 04, 2023
The always open and always honest Pat Schlapper once again returns to the show. Hot off of qualifying for his 3rd Bassmaster Classic, the former Bass Nation National Champion opens up about everything and we mean EVERYTHING. Get your popcorn ready because Pat always tells it like he sees it and no topic is off limits this week. Warning - this episode is both awkward and honest.
S3 E129 · Wed, September 27, 2023
This week we have another double dose of goodness. First we are joined by Bassmaster Elite Series rookie Bryant Smith hot off setting the Bassmaster record for the biggest single day smallmouth bass limit in history (29lbs 5 ounces). Then we have Jake’s Take, Bassmaster Videographer and friend of the show, Jake Latendresse returns with the ultimate behind-the-scenes Bassmaster break down of everything that happened at the Bassmaster Open at Lake of the Ozarks.
S3 E128 · Wed, September 20, 2023
This week we once again double down with two incredible guests. First, we are joined by two-time Bassmaster winner and three-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier Bryan New, with a very open and honest look back on his toughest Elite Series season ever. Then it’s time for Jake’s Take. Bassmaster Videographer and friend of the show, Jake Latendresse returns with the ultimate behind-the-scenes Bassmaster break down of everything that REALLY happened at the Watts Bar Bassmaster Open that was just won by Tyler Williams.
S3 E127 · Wed, September 13, 2023
This week we once again have a double dose of goodness. First, former Bass Nation National Champion Matty Wong joins the show hot off an amazing northern swing that literally saved his Bassmaster Elite Series career. Then, Bassmaster Opens EQ angler Logan Parks joins the show on MERCER-127.
S3 E126 · Wed, September 06, 2023
Stone Cold Kyle Welcher just won one of the most coveted titles in pro fishing. He is the 2023 Progressive Bassmaster Angler of the Year. Welcher, a former professional gambler, is one of the brightest young stars in pro fishing. His incredible mind and unique outlook on angling is truly remarkable. We can’t thank him enough for making this podcast his first stop only days after becoming the newest Bassmaster Angler of the Year.
S3 E125 · Wed, August 30, 2023
This week we have a double dose of goodness. The newest Bassmaster Elite Series Champion Patrick Walters, hot off setting the record for the biggest winning weight of smallmouth bass joins the show and of course we have Jake’s Take. Bassmaster Videographer and friend of the show, Jake Latendresse returns with the ultimate behind-the-scenes Bassmaster break down of everything that REALLY happened on and off the water at the Bassmaster Elite Series on Lake Champlain and the St Lawrence River.
S3 E124 · Wed, August 23, 2023
Kevin VanDam is the most dominant professional angler in the history of the sport. For over 30 years he has been on the top of every single aspect of the Sportfishing, both on the water and off - KVD has simply set the standard. After recently retiring from tournament competition Kevin joins this week’s podcast to remind us all that he is “far from done”.
S3 E123 · Wed, August 16, 2023
He is less than 24 hours away from kicking off the final two events of the 2023 Elite Series where he has a one point lead in the Bassmaster Angler of the Year race. Not bad for a guy that says he sucks at practice. What’s going though his mind as he attempts to seal the deal on one of the most coveted trophies in professional fishing. Well, we ask him that and so, so much more on this week’s podcast.
S3 E122 · Wed, August 09, 2023
He grew up in Towamba, Australia - a part of the world that does not even have bass. So to say Carl Jocumsen is an underdog is an understatement. But what he lacks in experience, he replaces with heart, thus his motto, 'Fear My Heart'. This week, the only Australian to ever win a Bassmaster Elite Series Tournament, Carl Jocumsen joins the podcast in a very open, raw and honest conversation about the agony of angling along the way.
S3 E121 · Wed, August 02, 2023
This week we double down on great guests. Just back from the 7th stop on the 2023 Bassmaster Elite Series on Lake St. Clair and so is Jake’s Take. Bassmaster Videographer and friend of the show, Jake Latendresse returns with the ultimate behind-the-scenes Bassmaster break down of everything that REALLY happened on and off the water at Lake St. Clair. But that’s not all - we are also joined by the St. Clair Champion himself! Two-time Bassmaster Elite Series Champion and Dakota Lithium Rookie of the Year leader, Joey Cifuentes.
S3 E120 · Wed, July 26, 2023
Mark Zona is the the colourful off-the-wall host of Zona’s Awesome Fishing Show, Bassmaster TV and BassLIVE. This week he once again returns to the podcast but this time Z agrees to talk about everything going on recently in the crazy world of competitive bass fishing and so, so much more.
S3 E119 · Wed, July 19, 2023
There are a lot of ways to make a living in sport fishing and Jay Siemens just may have done most of them. He started as a 16 year old fishing guide, turned photographer, videographer, YouTuber, influencer, lodge owner, fishing batter company co-owner, and ultimately, a very successful YouTuber and content creator. So successful in-fact that outside of his own channel (@JaySiemens) he actually hosts and produces fishing content for Steve Rinella’s ultra-popular MeatEater brand. Above all the success, Jay stays grounded in the fact that he is simply Cataloging Memories of a life well lived. This week he joins the podcast to talk about all that and so much more.
S3 E118 · Wed, July 12, 2023
Darold Gleason is a Bassmaster Open winner, a Classic Qualifier and a full-time Bassmaster Elite Series Pro. But it was not always that way. After spending 7 years as a school teacher, he decided to leave the security of that job behind, to chase his dreams and start living life because as he says “you can’t buy more time”. Gleason joins this week’s show with a very revealing & honest conversation about the highs and lows of pro fishing and life.
S3 E117 · Wed, July 05, 2023
Cooper Gallant came into the 2023 Bassmaster Elite Series as a highly hyped rookie, with a head full of confidence, hot off his first Bassmaster Open win. Now with just three events to go and all in his wheelhouse, Coop has once again put himself in contention to qualify for another Bassmaster Classic. But what’s it REALLY like to be an Elite Series rookie? This week he joins the Mercer podcast to share his thoughts on the season so far and so, so much more.
S3 E116 · Wed, June 28, 2023
Sure Gerald Swindle is a 2 time Bassmaster Angler of the Year and a walking weigh-in highlight reel. But he is also a starch defender of the rules and his way of playing the game. This week, he once again joins the podcast to talk about the recently acceptable grey area in rules, his trip to Jamaica and his belief in pro anglers defending the shield that they have earned the right to wear.
S3 E115 · Wed, June 21, 2023
Stone Cold Kyle Welcher is a two-time Bassmaster Classic Qualifier and the current leader in Bassmaster Angler of the Year points. Welcher, a former professional gambler, is one of the brightest young stars in pro fishing. His incredible mind and unique outlook on angling is truly remarkable. This week he joins the podcast to have a very open and honest conversation about angling and so, so much more.
S3 E114 · Wed, June 14, 2023
This week we are joined by two of the most naturally gifted bass anglers on the planet. John Cox and Keith Carson are both Bassmaster Classic qualifiers. However, they did not start on top. These two childhood friends have been turning heads at tournaments ever since they could legally tow their janky Jon Boat to the ramp. Forged from 15 years of skipping school and faking sick days to chase bass, their friendship has weathered the highs and lows of tournament fishing. This week they join the podcast to talk about all that and so, so much more.
S3 E113 · Wed, June 07, 2023
This week we have a double dose of goodness. The newest Bassmaster Elite Series Champion Brock Mosley joins the show and of course. we have Jake’s Take. Bassmaster Videographer and friend of the show, Jake Latendresse returns with the ultimate behind-the-scenes Bassmaster break down of everything that REALLY happened on and off the water at the Sabine River Bassmaster Elite Series tournament in Orange, Texas.
S3 E112 · Wed, May 31, 2023
He is an Elite Series rookie but he is already a Bassmaster Elite Series Champion. It did not take “The Cowboy” Joey Cifuentes long to rope his first Elite title winning the second tournament he fished. Everyone knows that stuff but did you know Joey has been branded twice, rode a bull and once grew up dreaming of being a pro in another sport? This week Joey Cifuentes joins the podcast and we learn all that and so, so much more.
S3 E111 · Wed, May 24, 2023
Seth Feider is truly one of the biggest names in sport fishing. Not only is he a 2-time Bassmaster winner, the 2021 Bassmaster Angler of the Year and a 6-time Classic Qualifier but he has built a legion of loyal fans. Some call him the the Llama, some call him the Amazing FeiderMan, but his incredible fans connect with his open, honest and down-to-earth attitude. Seth Feider joins this week's podcast and opens up about life, his dreams and is hatred of cheaters.
S3 E110 · Wed, May 17, 2023
Just back from the 5th stop on the 2023 Bassmaster Elite Series at Lay Lake and so is Jake’s Take. Bassmaster Videographer and friend of the show, Jake Latendresse returns with the ultimate behind-the-scenes Bassmaster break down of everything that REALLY happened on and off the water at the Lay Lake Bassmaster Elite Series tournament in Alabama.
S3 E109 · Wed, May 10, 2023
Shane Lehew is not just the Baby Shark- he is also a 4 time Bassmaster Classic Qualifier, a 4 time Forest Wood Cup Qualifier, a member of the Bassmaster Century Club and a former Junior World Champion. This week, the often quiet but always likeable Bassmaster Elite Series Pro joins the podcast and opens up about his past, the present and the challenge of being a naturally quiet person in this super-social time in pro angling on MERCER-109.
S3 E108 · Wed, May 03, 2023
Just back from the third and fourth stop on the 2023 Bassmaster Elite Series and so is Jake’s Take. Bassmaster Videographer and friend of the show, Jake Latendresse returns with the ultimate behind-the-scenes Bassmaster break down of everything that REALLY happened on and off the water at the Lake Murray and Santee Cooper Lakes Bassmaster Elite Series tournaments in South Carolina.
S3 E107 · Wed, April 26, 2023
The ultra likeable Chad Pipkens is a 6 time Bassmaster Classic Qualifier and a Bassmaster Open Winner. His incredibly positive outlook on life and professional angling is truly addictive. With 17 Bassmaster top 10's the friendly & charismatic Michigan pro feels this big win is coming. But first, he joins this week's podcast to talk about life on tour, being a hockey ref and his battle with Biffle. Plus so, so much more this week on The Mercer Podcast.
S3 E106 · Wed, April 19, 2023
Ben Milliken is only two events into his Bassmaster Open career and he has already made his mark in a giant way. He finished 5th in the first one and he won the second one, making him a Bassmaster Classic qualifier and he just may be the Next Big Thing in Bass fishing. Ben arguably has one of the biggest independent fishing channels on YouTube. Milliken Fishing has over 500,000 YouTube subscribers and over 120 million plays. This week he once again joins the podcast to talk about all that and so, so much more.
S3 E105 · Wed, April 12, 2023
Mike Iaconelli is the 2003 Bassmaster Classic Champion, the 2006 Bassmaster Angler of the Year, an 8 time Bassmaster winner with almost 3 million dollars in tournament winnings. Ike was once referred to as the bad boy of bass fishing and he even made GQ’s list of the top 10 most hated athletes. Well, whoever made that list clearly never asked the actual fans because Ike has amassed one of the biggest followings in pro fishing. He is a best selling author, a TV host a philanthropist and the creator of the ground breaking podcast, Ike Live. To top that all off, Mike Iaconelli recently found out he will be inducted into the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame in the fall of 2023. But first, he joins the podcast to talk about all that and so, so much more.
S3 E104 · Wed, April 05, 2023
Just back from the Record setting 2023 Bassmaster Classic in Knoxville, Tennessee and so is Jake’s Take. Bassmaster Videographer and friend of the show, Jake Latendresse returns with the ultimate behind-the-scenes Bassmaster break down of everything that REALLY happened on and off the water at the 2023 Bassmaster Classic.
Mon, April 03, 2023
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly sportfishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question- New Knots Are Overrated - Keep or Cull?
S3 E103 · Wed, March 29, 2023
The ultra popular and always likeable Jeff Gustafson made history this past weekend by becoming the only Canadian to ever win the Bassmaster Classic. He also became the first Canadian with multiple Bassmaster wins. Ironically both wins coming from the same body of water - the Tennessee River in Knoxville, Tennessee. The fact that Gussy lives roughly 22 hours from there in Kenora, Ontario did not stop him from feeling at home on a river he has dominated two events in a row. This week Gussy joins the podcast to talk about winning the Super Bowl of Bass Fishing and shares many behind-the-scenes stories about what it’s really like to be a Bassmaster Classic Champion. As if that’s not enough we also have a quick chat with Jamie Bruce (Gussy’s buddy, Podcast Host & Bassmaster Opens EQ angler) about the incredible party that it was.
Mon, March 27, 2023
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly sportfishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question- There Should Be More Than 9 Elite Series Events Per Season - Keep or Cull?
S3 E102 · Wed, March 22, 2023
Louisiana’s Tyler Rivet will kick off his 2nd Bassmaster Classic appearance in just a couple of days. He comes into this tournament riding an incredible wave of momentum after winning the first Bassmaster Elite Series tournament of the season on Lake Okeechobee and backing it up with a 3rd place finish at Lake Seminole. He is the current leader in Bassmaster Angler of the Year points and he is truly a young gun on an incredible run. This week he joins the podcast to talk about what changed and so, so much more.
Mon, March 20, 2023
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly sport fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question- Spinning Rods Are Better For Jerkbaits, Keep or Cull?
S3 E101 · Wed, March 15, 2023
Kevin VanDam is the most accomplished angler in the history of professional bass fishing. KVD is a 7-time Bassmaster Angler of the Year, a 4-time Bassmaster Classic Champion with a record 25 Bassmaster Wins, 4 MLF wins & a FLW Angler of the Year title. All of that adds up to over 7 million in earnings & countless records. Nothing about Kevin VanDam’s tournament career has ever been average including how he has chosen to walk away from it at 55 years old. Most pro anglers never retire but then again KVD is not most. This week he joins the podcast to talk about the past, the present & his amazing future as a retired tournament pro.
Mon, March 13, 2023
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly sportfishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question- Forward Facing Sonar Has Eliminated Home Field Advantage - Keep or Cull?
S3 E100 · Wed, March 08, 2023
Rick Clunn is a 4-time Bassmaster Classic Champion, 16-time Bassmaster winner, 32-time Classic Qualifier & a former Bassmaster AOY. Beyond all of those trophies and accolades, Rick Clunn is an absolute anomaly. What he is doing in fishing is not happening in any other sport or competitive activity on earth. At 76 years old he just kicked off his 49th season competing at the top level of the sport. At a time that may be more dominated by young anglers than ever before, Rick Clunn is almost 5 decades into his legendary career. His incredible influence is seen in every single pro fishing today. Clunn is not only a driven competitor but his silent approach and down-to-earth outlook on life has almost turned him into a mystical character in the eyes of many. Rick Clunn is a unicorn. When tournaments are over he disappears into the tranquility and beauty of the Ozark Mountains. But this week for our 100th episode Rick agreed to find WIFI and join us for a very rare, very open and very candid conversation. Thank you Rick.
S3 E99 · Wed, March 01, 2023
Just back from the first 2 Bassmaster Elite Series tournaments of the 2023 season and so is Jake’s Take. Bassmaster Videographer and friend of the show Jake Latendresse returns with the ultimate behind-the-scenes Bassmaster break down of everything that REALLY happened on and off the water at the Lake Okeechobee and Lake Seminole Bassmaster Elite Series Tournaments.
Mon, February 27, 2023
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly Sportfishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question, all baits used in tournaments should be commercially available. Keep or Cull?
S3 E98 · Wed, February 22, 2023
Ben Milliken is no stranger to taking risks. In his mid 20’s he left a safe job to chase his dream of fishing full time. Just seven years later he arguably has one of the biggest independent fishing channels on YouTube. Milliken Fishing has over 500,000 YouTube subscribers and over 120 million plays. All of this fuelled by his life long angling addiction. Next week he embarks on another incredible angling adventure as he joins 175 other Bassmaster EQ Pros and competes in the Bassmaster Opens vying for one of the nine coveted Bassmaster Elite Series spots. But first, he joins the podcast to talk about all that and so, so much more.
Mon, February 20, 2023
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly Sportfishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question, there should be unlimited horsepower allowed on Bassboats in tournaments. Keep or Cull?
S3 E97 · Wed, February 15, 2023
Bradley Hallman is a two-time FLW Tour winner and a two-time Elite Series qualifier with a rapidly growing YouTube following. But it has not always been this way. At one point in his life, Bradley walked away from the Bassmaster Elite Series believing that tournament fishing had stole his soul. But that was then, this is now. A rejuvenated and reenergized Hallman is just a few short hours away from kicking off his second stint on the Bassmaster Elite Series. But first he joins the podcast to talk about his past & the more prepared person it has made him today.
Mon, February 13, 2023
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly Sportfishing debate show with Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question, the Bassmaster Classic Should Never Be In The Summer. Keep or cull?
S3 E96 · Wed, February 08, 2023
Over the last 3 years Lee Livesay is truly one of the hottest anglers on the planet. In that short time he has won 4 Bassmaster tournaments, collected 2 Bassmaster Century Belts & weighed in the 3rd biggest limit in Bassmaster History. He has qualified for 3 Bassmaster Classics & not only did he win on his home lake (Lake Fork) but he did it back-to-back. Along the way he has assembled one of the coolest sponsor line ups in professional fishing. Not only is he sponsored by Busch Beer but also the hit southern rock/country band Whiskey Myers. Livesay represents the same red dirt roots that they sing about as he continues his fast train to the top of the fishing game. But this year things feel a little different & Lee joins the podcast to talk about all that and so, so much more. Please help support Chase and his amazing baitshttps://www.chaserhandpouredsoftbodybaits.com
Mon, February 06, 2023
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly Sportfishing debate show with Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question, The Umbrella Rig Should be Brought Back to Tournament Fishing, Keep or Cull?
S3 E95 · Wed, February 01, 2023
Matt Robertson is one of the most polarizing pro anglers in professional fishing. He is a 4-time Bassmaster Classic Qualifier and a Bassmaster Open Champion. In a very short time he has built a legion of loyal fans. Known for his signature ON ‘EM hat, his cut-off shirts, fur coats and ferocious personality. Matt proudly represents Kentucky and the trailer park he calls home. His down home thinking and don’t-give-a-crap attitude has taken the fishing world by storm. Along the way he has ruffled some feathers but ultimately Matt just wants to catch fish and have a good time.
Mon, January 30, 2023
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - The Youngest Angler to Win the Bassmaster Classic Record Will Be Broken In The Next Five Years. Keep or Cull?
S3 E94 · Wed, January 25, 2023
John Cox is not your average pro angler. As a matter of fact nothing about John Cox is average. His incredible career includes 9 FLW Wins, 2 Bassmaster Wins, he is the 2016 Forrest Wood Cup Champion with close to 3 million dollars in tournament winnings. But what’s even more amazing than his accomplishments is how he has done it. At a time when people think it’s impossible to make your mark in pro fishing without Forward Facing Sonar, Cox still counts on the same natural fish-catching instinct he was born with. His incredible outlook on life & perpetual positive attitude proves he is clearly doing exactly what he was born to do. If you ask John Cox he Can’t Stop & Won’t Stop fishing anytime soon.
Mon, January 23, 2023
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee, Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - Should winning one Bassmaster Classic automatically qualify you for the next five Classics? Keep or Cull?
S3 E93 · Wed, January 18, 2023
Jason Christie has 10 FLW wins and 8 Bassmaster wins. He is the reigning and defending Bassmaster Classic Champion! Christie has accumulated almost 3 million dollars in winnings, making him one of the most feared names in professional bass fishing. But why?? One reason - no matter how long his hall of fame resume gets, he still is and always will be “all about the chase”.This week a very real, raw and honest Jason Christie joins the podcast to talk about all that and so, so much more.
Mon, January 16, 2023
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer &. Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - Bring Back Evening Weigh-ins - Keep or Cull?
S3 E92 · Wed, January 11, 2023
Brandon Palaniuk is a former Bass Nation National Champion, he has qualified for 12 Bassmaster Classics, won 6 Bassmaster Tournaments and he has won 2 Bassmaster AOY titles with the latest being in 2022 making him the reigning & defending Bassmaster Angler of the Year! Regardless of all those accomplishments, “The Prodigy” values his own personal growth above all else. This week’s show is a very deep dig into one of the marvellous young minds that is leading this sport. Buckle up and prepare to get inspired as Brandon Palaniuk opens up about motivation, meditation, fatherhood, fitness, fishing & the future.
S3 E91 · Wed, January 04, 2023
Gerald Swindle is a 2-time Bassmaster Angler of the Year and has qualified for 20 Bassmaster Classics. Beyond all of his accomplishments, he is loved by fishing fans worldwide because of his humour and his heart. Swindle's one-of-a-kind personality can have you howling with laughter or humbled by a hug. This week he joins the podcast and as always, he is unapologetically G!
Mon, January 02, 2023
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly Sportfishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - Would you rather win the Bassmaster Classic or catch a world record bass?
Mon, December 26, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly Sportfishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - Kevin VanDam is the greatest tournament angler in history. Keep or Cull.
S2 E90 · Wed, December 21, 2022
Denny Brauer has won 17 Bassmaster tournaments, 2 Angler of the Year titles and he is 1998 Bassmaster Classic Champion. He was the first angler ever featured on the Wheeties Box & made two appearances on the David Letterman Show where he actually taught Ozzy Osborn how to cast. But Denny Brauer truly is the gift that keeps on giving. His unbelievable success and impact on the sport is still felt today through the innovation he brought to the sport and the inspiration he provided for many of today’s brightest stars.
Mon, December 19, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly Sportfishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question, Is the Bassmaster Classic or Angler Of the Year a greater accomplishment in professional fishing? Keep or Cull
S2 E89 · Wed, December 14, 2022
Kevin VanDam is a 7-time Bassmaster Angler of the Year, a 4-time Bassmaster Classic Champion with a record 25 Bassmaster Wins, 4 MLF wins & FLW Angler of the Year title. All that adds up to over 7 million in earnings & makes him the most accomplished angler in the history of professional bass fishing. How did he do it? If you ask KVD, he will tell you “it’s all about the attitude”. This week he joins the podcast for a very real, raw and honest conversation about some topics he very rarely talks about publicly.
Mon, December 12, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL - a weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - The most important advancement in electronics is mapping. Keep or Cull?
S2 E88 · Wed, December 07, 2022
Jeff Gustafson & Carl Jocumsen are both Elite Series Champions & Bassmaster Classic Qualifiers. On top of their incredible resumes they are both widely considered two of the nicest pros in the sport. This week they join the podcast to talk about their incredible experience at the ABT- Australian Barra Tour, the future of tournament fishing, chasing your dreams, the upcoming Bassmaster Classic & a WHOLE bunch of other stuff making this week's show not only the longest episode ever but maybe the Nicest Fishing Podcast EVER!
S2 E87 · Wed, November 30, 2022
Larry Nixon’s incredible Hall of Fame career includes qualifying for 25 Bassmaster Classics & 15 FLW Cups; 2 Angler of the a Year Titles & 18 victories including the 1983 Bassmaster Classic. As if that’s not enough, he was also the first angler to ever become a Bassmaster Millionaire. For most, a resume like that is exhausting to read never mind actually accomplish it. But Larry is not most and he is not finished. At 72 years of age Larry Nixon will return to BASS and compete in the 2023 Bassmaster Elite Series…but first he joins this week's podcast.
Mon, November 28, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly Sportfishing debate show with Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - The bladed jig is the greatest lure invented. Ever.
S2 E86 · Wed, November 23, 2022
Big Fish Bobby Lane is a 12 time Bassmaster Classic Qualifier, an Elite Series Champion & the reigning RedCrest Champion. With almost 3 million dollars in earnings you would think his career would be on cruise control. However, Bobby Lane is walking away with his trophy & fishing the Bassmaster Opens in 2023 to try re-qualify for the Bassmaster Elite Series. This week he joins the podcast to talk about that and a whole bunch of other incredibly entertaining stories. Big Fish, Big Laughs & Big Dreams! on MERCER-86
Mon, November 21, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly Sportfishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - Does mental power trump angling talent?
S2 E85 · Wed, November 16, 2022
Keith Combs is a three time Bassmaster winner & a three time Toyota Texas Bass Classic Champion. He has well over two million dollars in winnings & he will compete in his 9th Bassmaster Classic in 2023. But did you know he does a world class impersonation of a very famous pro angler? Learn that and oh so much more on this week's episode.
Mon, November 14, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly Sportfishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - there will be another 10lb smallmouth bass caught in the next 5 years?
S2 E84 · Wed, November 09, 2022
Bassmaster Videographer, Outdoor Extremist & Friend of the Show Jake Latendresse once again returns to the show with Jake’s Take. This week we discuss Redfish Cup, the 10lb record smallmouth bass and new anglers coming to the Bassmaster Elite Series. All this and more on MERCER 84.
S2 E83 · Wed, November 02, 2022
Rut Daniels was destined for greatness. He was one simple shot from Olympic Gold………until he shot the wrong target. Regardless of his Olympic adversities many still consider Rut Daniels the greatest archer to ever walk this planet. A tail of overcoming adversity that everyone can benefit from. Rut Danials finally opens up on this week's podcast.
Mon, October 31, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - Back Reeling Should Be Dead. Keep or Cull?
S2 E82 · Wed, October 26, 2022
If you flip through the pages of Bassmaster Magazine or visit Bassmaster.com you have seen James Overstreet’s work. Street, as many call him, is a world-renowned outdoor photographer that has covered many of the most iconic moments in Bassmaster history. This week he joins the podcast to share some behind-the-scenes stories and his incredible down-to-earth attitude about life.
Mon, October 24, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question- The US Open should move to a new body of water each and every year. Keep or Cull?
S2 E81 · Wed, October 19, 2022
His personal moto is “Don’t Suck” and Bassmaster Elite Series Pro Bryan New truly lives up to that moto. In less than 3 years he has won 2 Bassmaster tournaments, including the very first Elite Series tournament he fished, qualified for 3 Bassmaster Classics and won an Angler of the Year title from the Bassmaster Opens. Never short of an opinion, Bryan New is 100% unapologetically himself. This week he joins the podcast and opens up about…well, pretty much everything. Trust me - this episode “Don’t Suck”.
Mon, October 17, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac. This week's question - Should all fish pass through a metal detector?
S2 E80 · Wed, October 12, 2022
Caleb Sumrall is a former Bass Nation National Champion, a 3-Time Bassmaster Classic qualifier & a full-time Elite Series Pro. However all of this may have never happened if it was not for some bad luck. After losing his job, Caleb had no choice but to take his shot at professional bass fishing & ultimately turned his nightmare into a dream.
Mon, October 10, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly sportfishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangra from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - Will a pro athlete ever become a pro angler?
S2 E79 · Wed, October 05, 2022
Bassmaster Videographer, Outdoor Extremist & Friend of the Show Jake Latendresse once again returns to the show with Jake’s Take. This week we discuss Tournament Cheaters & Short Cut Seekers in life, business & competitive sports on MERCER 79.
Mon, October 03, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly sportfishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - A Kayak Angler Should Make the Bassmaster Classic?
S2 E78 · Wed, September 28, 2022
Ol’ Bob Downey is a Bassmaster Elite Series pro hot off of his best Elite season ever. He is a two time Bassmaster Classic qualifier and a former Opens Champion but what about Bob? The often quiet but always friendly Minnesota pro joins this week's podcast to answer that very question on MERCER 78.
Mon, September 26, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly Sportfishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - The Carolina Rig is Back!
S2 E77 · Wed, September 21, 2022
Brandon Palaniuk has won 6 Bassmaster tournaments, a Bass Nation National Championship and as of a few weeks ago, he is a 2-time Bassmaster Angler of the Year. For most people that would be enough but for Brandon he is just getting started. From Prodigy to the pinnacle of pro fishing. This week Brandon Palaniuk joins the podcast and opens up about EVERYTHING.
Mon, September 19, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly Sportfishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee, Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - Who will win more Angler of the Year Titles - Jacob Wheeler or Brandon Palaniuk?
S2 E76 · Wed, September 14, 2022
Brandon Lester is an 8-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier that is hot off his best Bassmaster season ever. This season included 2 wins and a 2nd place finish in the Bassmaster Angler of the Year race. But above all those accomplishments, Lester’s greatest trophy is his incredible family that drives him to compete and ultimately leaves him a Happy Man!
S2 E75 · Wed, September 07, 2022
Mark Zona is the the colourful off-the-wall host of Zona’s Awesome Fishing Show, Bassmaster TV & BassLIVE. This week a very Real, Raw & Honest Z-Train joins the podcast in a Bassmaster end-of-the-season tell-all that ultimately ends up in us all agreeing that Moments Matter.
S2 E74 · Wed, August 31, 2022
That’s a wrap! The 9th and final stop of the 2022 Bassmaster Elite Series just finished in LaCrosse, Wisconsin. Like we do after every Elite, I am once again joined by friend of the show and Bassmaster videographer Jake Latendresse to deliver the ultimate behind-the-scenes info from the 2022 Mississippi River Bassmaster Elite Series tournament. But that’s not all. This week we talk about Jay Przekurat’s incredible Rookie of the Year season, Brandon Palaniuk's inspiring life and his second Angler of the Year win, plus so-so much more this week on MERCER 74.
S2 E73 · Wed, August 24, 2022
Just home from the 8th stop on the Bassmaster Elite Series. So as always, friend of the show and Bassmaster videographer Jake Latendresse joins the show with the ultimate behind-the-scenes info from the 2022 Lake Oahe Bassmaster Elite Series tournament & so, so much more. Jake Latendresse with Jake’s Take this week on MERCER 73.
Mon, August 22, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - Keep or Cull that the 2022 Elite Series was the BEST schedule EVER!
S2 E72 · Wed, August 17, 2022
Lisa Talmadge is truly a trailblazing tournament director. As the tournament director for the Bassmaster Elite Series, Lisa arguably has the most public “official” position in pro fishing and she is the first female in history to do so. But outside of her friendly smile many Bassmaster fans don’t know much about her...until now. This week Lisa Talmadge finally joins the podcast.
Mon, August 15, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question- Forward Facing Sonar - Keep or Cull in Pro Level Tournaments?
S2 E71 · Wed, August 10, 2022
Randy Blaukat is a lot of things. He is a pro angler who has qualified for 8 Bassmaster Classics and 9 FLW Cups. He is a promoter, an angling pioneer and most recently, a YouTuber. Blaukat’s polarizing opinions have allowed his channel incredible growth. But does he really believe some of the stuff he says? On this week’s podcast Randy opens up about it all and helps us answer the question - Is Randy Blaukat Crazy or a Genius?
Mon, August 08, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question - Is Jay Przekurat's Smallmouth Record More Impressive Than Paul Elias' Largemouth Record?
S2 E70 · Wed, August 03, 2022
Gary Clouse is a Bassmaster Elite Series pro that has built a bass boat empire from the ground up. Whether it’s bass fishing or boat building, all Clouse’s dreams have been built on Belief.
S2 E69 · Wed, July 27, 2022
He is the youngest Bassmaster Elite Series Champion ever. He holds the record for the biggest winning weight of smallmouth bass in history and he is leading the Bassmaster Rookie of the Year race with just two events left in the season. However some people are still asking Who the HECK is Jay Przekurat? This week he joins the podcast to answer that very question.
S2 E68 · Wed, July 20, 2022
Once again friend of the show and Bassmaster videographer Jake Latendresse joins the show with the ultimate behind-the-scenes info from maybe the greatest smallmouth tournament in the history of EVER. This week on MERCER 68.
Mon, July 18, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question - Should ICAST be closed to the general public and restricted to industry-only?
S2 E67 · Wed, July 13, 2022
Bassmaster Open winner & Classic Qualifier Cooper Gallant joins this week’s show to discuss the upcoming Bassmaster Elite Series tournament on the St. Lawrence River. His thoughts, his predictions & his BIG BASS LIVE announcement.
Mon, July 11, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question - Should the Top 5 Anglers in an Elite Series Event get trophies?
S2 E66 · Wed, July 06, 2022
Bryan Schmitt is one of those quiet dudes that truly does his talking at the scales. He is a Bassmaster Classic Qualifier that has won in both the Bassmaster Opens and the Elite Series. He actually holds the all time record for the most Toyota Series wins ever. But even with all those accomplishments, he may fly under the radar of some fishing fans. This week he joins the podcast to talk about that and so so much more on MERCER-66.
Mon, July 04, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - Should ladders be illegal in pro tournaments?
S2 E65 · Wed, June 29, 2022
Matty Wong is the raining BASS Nation National Champion. But only a year ago he was fishing out of a bass boat almost as old as he is. That boat had only one black and white graph. But what he lacked in equipment he made up for with heart and additude. A year later he is a full time pro on the Bassmaster Elite Series fishing out of a brand new fully rigged Bass boat. Proving with his infectious attitude and positive outlook anything is possible.
Mon, June 27, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - Should we keep or cull the Current High School Bass Fishing System?
S2 E64 · Wed, June 22, 2022
Drew Benton is a five time Bassmaster Classic qualifier, he has two tour level victories and he won Rookie of the Year in both the Bassmaster Elite Series & the FLW tour. But today’s Drew Benton may just be the best Benton to ever fish. His happiness at home allows him to focus on fishing & focus he has. Currently sitting in 5th place in the Bassmaster Angler of the Year standing; a calm, comfortable & complete Drew Benton joins this week’s show to talk about all that and spawning season both on and off the water. You don’t want to miss this one!
Mon, June 20, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question - Should all pros be able to fish the Bassmaster Opens?
S2 E63 · Wed, June 15, 2022
Everyone has thought it. But he actually did it. In his late thirties Pat Schlapper walked away from a secure job to chase his dream of becoming a Bassmaster Elite Series pro. He qualified for the Elite Series twice in one season. He is a former Bass Nation National Champion & Bassmaster Classic Qualifier. This week he joins the podcast & opens up in an incredibly HONEST conversation.
Mon, June 13, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question - Should there be a rule in top level pro tournaments that you have to wear a PFD the entire time you're competing?
S2 E62 · Wed, June 08, 2022
Bassmaster cameraman Jake Latendresse once again joins Dave on MERCER to break down the behind-the-scenes of the 6th stop of the 2022 Bassmaster Elite Series on Pickwick Lake.
Mon, June 06, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question- Should winning an elite series event buy you an extra year of qualifications?
S2 E61 · Wed, June 01, 2022
Clay Dyer was born without any lower limbs; no arm on the left side and a partial arm on the right. However, these limitations did not dampen his determination and positive spirit. In a world seemingly full of reasons to quit, Clay's unbelievable will and positive attitude not only drive him, but his story will drive you too. If Clay can, You Can!
Mon, May 30, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question - should we bring back Win and You're In. You win an Elite series event and you go to the Bassmaster Classic.
S2 E60 · Wed, May 25, 2022
The ultimate behind-the-scenes show from last week’s historic Bassmaster Elite Series tournament on Lake Fork. We have the only two people that saw everything that really happened. 4-time Bassmaster Winner Lee Livesay & his cameraman from all 4 days, friend of the show, Jake Latendresse with the ultimate Jake’s Take.
S2 E59 · Wed, May 18, 2022
The fishing world truly lost one of its fore fathers this past week, when the great Ray Scott passed away at 88 years old. This week we welcome Bass Fishing Hall of Famer & Bassmaster Classic veteran Steve Bowman to pay tribute to the amazing man that was Ray Scott.
Mon, May 16, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question- Keep or cull the Alabama Rig in professional tournaments.
S2 E58 · Wed, May 11, 2022
David Mullins is a 3-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier and a BASS Open winner. Just 2 years after a 2nd place finish in the Bassmaster Angler of the Year race, Mullins is once again in contention for Angler of the Year. This week he joins the podcast from his farm in Mt. Carmel, Tennessee and let's us all inside the mind of Mullins.
Mon, May 09, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question- Nets - cull ‘em or keep ‘em in pro level tournaments?
S2 E57 · Wed, May 04, 2022
Brandon Cobb fished his first tournament at 7 years old, he once won a colouring contest to fish with Bassmaster Classic Champion Davy Hite. But none of those stats are even close to the most shocking stuff we learn about the 2 time Bassmaster Elite Series Champion on this week’s Mercer podcast.
Mon, May 02, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question - Will a glide bait ever win a pro level tournament?
S2 E56 · Wed, April 27, 2022
BIG GUS is a world- renowned tattoo artist. He was one of the stars in the hit tv series TATTOO NIGHTMARES. But he is also a hardcore west coast big bait specialist that is obsessed by the sport of fishing just like us.
Mon, April 25, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question - Anglers leaving the boat to land a fish in profession tournaments?
S2 E55 · Wed, April 20, 2022
John Crews has qualified for 13 bassmaster Classics. He has won 2 Elite series events but what may be even more impressive is the fact that he did that all while running one of the fastest growing tackle companies in the sport proving that John truly has life in Crews Control.
S2 E54 · Fri, April 15, 2022
Friend of the show Bassmaster Cameraman Jake Latendresse is back with the ultimate Jake’s Take. It happens to all of us sooner or later but Jake actually agreed to talk about it.
S2 E53 · Wed, April 13, 2022
Just back from the Chickamauga Lake Bassmaster Elite Series Tournament with an extra juicy Bassmaster behind-the-scenes show. First friend of the show, Bassmaster Cameraman Jake Latendresse kicks it off with another Jake’s Take. Then Dave sits down with 6 time Bassmaster Winner and former Bassmaster Angler of Year “The Hack Attack” Greg Hackney.
Mon, April 11, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question- Lose fish care penalties for dead bass?
S2 E52 · Wed, April 06, 2022
What’s it REALLY like to win the Bassmaster Classic? It’s so crazy that Jason Christie does not even remember the confetti. This week a very open & honest Christie once again joins the podcast to talk about the Classic, the luck of little people & so, so much more.
Mon, April 04, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question- Back to back pro level tournaments, keep 'em or cull 'em?
S2 E51 · Wed, March 30, 2022
He is a two- time Bassmaster Champion, a Bassmaster Classic Qualifier that clearly does his talking at the scales. Just a week after weighing in what just may be the quietest 103lbs 1oz in bass fishing history, Caleb Kuphall joins the podcast in hopes that I can finally crack his crystal fortress of solitude and learn who he is.
Mon, March 28, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question- Who’s spot is it on day two of the tournament?
S2 E50 · Wed, March 23, 2022
Just back from the Santee Cooper Bassmaster Elite Series Tournament with an extra juicy Bassmaster behind-the-scenes show. Friend of the show, Bassmaster Cameraman Jake Latendresse kicks it off with Jake’s Take. Once again, Jake had the closest view of anyone on earth to everything Drew Cook did to win the 2022 Santee Cooper Bassmaster Elite Series Tournament with 105lbs 5oz. But just to make sure he is telling the truth, we bring in the Champion - Drew Cook himself, to talk about all the juicy details from an incredible weekend on Santee Cooper Lakes.
Mon, March 21, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week’s question- Should BassTrakk freeze 2 hours before every weighin?
S2 E49 · Wed, March 16, 2022
KJ Queen won his first bass tournament at 7 years old. On that day he knew exactly what he wanted to do when he grew up. After a stand out amateur career in both high school & college, he turned a lot of heads qualifying for the Bassmaster Classic in his first season on the Elite Series. But if you ask KJ, he is just getting started & if it takes living in a van to make it, he is all in!
Mon, March 14, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - BassTrakk Exact Locations, keep 'em or cull 'em?
S2 E48 · Wed, March 09, 2022
Bassmaster Cameraman and friend of the show, Jake Latendresse had the closest view of anyone on earth to everything Jason Christie did to win the 2022 Bassmaster Classic. This week’s show is the ultimate behind-the-scenes look at everything Bassmaster Classic with two dudes who get to see everything…& they share it all!!!
Mon, March 07, 2022
Welcome to THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer and Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - Should Kids Be Allowed on the Weigh-in Stage?
S2 E47 · Wed, March 02, 2022
It’s Bassmaster Classic week & we have Tommy Sanders, the voice of Bass Live on this week’s show. Tommy's incredible broadcasting career has him in the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame along with many other accolades. But more than that, Tommy’s voice lives in every Bassmaster Fan's head. His smooth sound has literally become the Bassmaster sound track of several generations.
Mon, February 28, 2022
Welcome to the first episode of THE CULL. A weekly fishing debate show hosted by Bassmaster Emcee Dave Mercer & Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live. This week's question - Should Big Bass Pay $10,000 in Pro Tournaments?
S2 E46 · Wed, February 23, 2022
John Cox has won close to 3 million dollars casting for bass. He has 9 FLW wins, 2 Bassmaster wins and is days away from fishing his 4th Bassmaster Classic. However, being one of the most successful pro anglers of his time has not changed John Cox one bit. He smiles, laughs & loves every single moment of the life he once dreamed of. But that’s not all. This week we also welcome back Bassmaster cameraman Jake Latendresse to break down the behind-the-scenes scoop from the first 2 Bassmaster Elite Series events in Florida.
S2 E45 · Wed, February 16, 2022
In today's world of seemingly unlimited fishing podcasts and talk shows, its hard to imagine a time when there were just a few. From Mark Jeffreys' mind, Bass Talk Live was born. A fishing podcast before there were even podcasts.
S2 E44 · Wed, February 09, 2022
Steve Kennedy is a 3 time Bassmaster Elite Series Champion and a 10 time Classic qualifier. His outside-of-the-box thinking has helped him make over 60 tour level top 10's. This week, Kennedy joins the podcast and allows us all a very honest and open look into his marvelous mind.
S2 E43 · Wed, February 02, 2022
Hunter Shryock grew up dreaming of motocross trophies but at the young age of 21 he quickly grew tired of broken bones and off season surgeries and retired from professional motocross. However, he was still addicted to competition. So addicted, that it fuelled him to do what many think is impossible - start over in a totally different sport and make it to the top level. Today he is a 3-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier and a full time Bassmaster Elite Series Pro. This week we talk about all that and more.
S2 E42 · Wed, January 26, 2022
Jason Christie has 16 tour level victories and well over 2 million dollars in earnings. He is introduced as one of the most feared names in professional fishing. In reality, he is calm, calculated and maybe a more content competitor than ever before. Which may make him even more scary to compete against.
S2 E41 · Wed, January 19, 2022
Jake Latendresse is a Bassmaster cameraman and an all around outdoors bad ass. He has travelled half way around the world in quest of the next shot and spent over a decade on the back deck of Bassmaster boats. There is not much he has not seen or heard and this week, he joins the podcast to share a few stories you have never heard.
S2 E40 · Wed, January 12, 2022
Randy Blaukat is a lot of things. He is a pro angler who has qualified for 8 Bassmaster Classics and 9 FLW Cups. He is a promoter, an angling pioneer and most recently, a You-Tuber. Randy’s amazing mind has brought lots to the angling industry. Today he joins the podcast and once again pulls no punches and speaks his mind!
S2 E39 · Wed, January 05, 2022
In a little over a decade Brandon Palaniuk has won 6 Bassmaster tournaments, a Bass Nation National Championship & the Bassmaster Angler of the Year title. All of this amazing success has been fuelled by the prodigy’s powerful positivity. This week we talk about all that and a bunch of other stuff including Idaho's New Years Eve potato drop?!?
S1 E38 · Wed, December 29, 2021
He is a Bassmaster Elite Series Champion, a two-time Classic Qualifier, but before all that and above all of that Frank Talley is a father and a husband to his incredible family that fuels the fire inside Frank the Tank.
S1 E37 · Wed, December 22, 2021
He grew up in Toowoomba, Australia - a part of the world that does not even have bass. So to say Carl Jocumsen is an underdog is an understatement. But what he lacks in experience, he replaces with heart, thus his motto, 'Fear My Heart'. This week, the only Australian to ever win a Bassmaster Elite Series Tournament, Carl Jocumsen joins the podcast.
S1 E36 · Wed, December 15, 2021
He is a 3-time Bassmaster Champion and a 6-time Bassmaster Classic Qualifier. But above all that, he values the respect of his peers and is driven to leave this sport better than he found it. A very open, honest and sometimes emotional Mark Menendez talk about all that and more on this week’s podcast.
S1 E35 · Wed, December 08, 2021
This young pro is truly fearless and focused on his future in fishing but his big dreams don't stop him from enjoying every single step of the journey. He cleared out a corner of his bedroom/tackle room to join this week's podcast to talk about the only thing that matter to him...Fishing.
S1 E34 · Wed, December 01, 2021
Life hits us all with obstacles and road blocks. Recently, pro angler Chris Groh hit one of those when he was cut from the Bassmaster Elite Series field. After 4 years his life long dream was taken away. He may have been cut but this interview proves he is far from finished!
S1 E33 · Wed, November 24, 2021
College anglers Logan Parks & Tucker Smith just won 1 million dollars in a bass tournament! Before they even get a chance to deposit the check they were kind enough to join this week's show to discuss their historical victory at the Bass Pro Shops US Open National Bass Fishing Amateur Team Championship.
S1 E32 · Wed, November 17, 2021
Just days after winning the Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship in Port Aransas, Texas. Bassmaster Elite Series Pro Chris Zaldain & Redfish Pro Capt. Ryan Rickard join the show to explain how 2 total strangers, with 2 totally different target species came together to take the title.
S1 E31 · Wed, November 10, 2021
Drew Cook was truly born to be a Bassmaster. His childhood dream that started at 5 years old is off to a great start. Three years into his Bassmaster Elite Series career he has already collected a Rookie of the Year title, he has never finished out of the top 18 in Angler of the Year points and 2 out of 3 years he has been in the top 10. This week he joins the podcast to talk about all that and so much more.
S1 E30 · Wed, November 03, 2021
Hot off a 2nd place finish in the Bassmaster Elite Series Rookie of the Year race Justin Hamner is a Bassmaster Classic Qualifier & this week’s guest on Mercer 30
S1 E29 · Wed, October 27, 2021
Longtime Bassmaster Opens Series Senior Tournament Manager Chris Bowes was promoted to Vice President of Tournaments on the same day as this podcast was recorded and he never said a word about it. But we did learn he was once a trapper.
S1 E28 · Thu, October 21, 2021
26 years old & Alabama’s Wes Logan is already a Bassmaster Elite Series Champion. To win so young takes incredible commitment, drive & work ethic or maybe you just gotta HATE losing bad enough!
S1 E27 · Wed, October 13, 2021
Bassmaster Elite Series Pro Brock Mosley of Collinsville, Mississippi knows a thing or two about close calls. With four 2nd place finishes on the Bassmaster Elite Series, he finds himself more motivated to finally win than ever. This week, he talks about that and a bunch of other stuff on this week's MERCER podcast.
S1 E26 · Wed, October 06, 2021
Bassmaster Elite Series Pro The Sleepy Assassin Austin Felix usually does his talking at the scales but this week he opens up about life on the Elite Series, Harry Potter, Social Media & a bunch of other stuff.
S1 E25 · Tue, September 28, 2021
Bassmaster Elite Series Champion Takumi Ito returns to the show. But this time it is from his home in Japan, where he tells us how his life has changed since winning almost 3 months ago on the St. Lawrence River.
S1 E24 · Wed, September 22, 2021
Tim Little & Matt Allen; the creators, hosts & master minds behind Tactical Bassin. These 2 incredible anglers with a passion for teaching have built up a cult-like following by simply telling the truth and helping people catch more fish. This week they join the podcast.
S1 E23 · Wed, September 15, 2021
This week we get inside the amazing mind of Bassmaster Elite Series Pro Kyle Welcher. He may only be 2 years into his Bassmaster Elite Series career but his free & focused mind has always amazed me. To him, looking back is never an option; only a distraction from the goal ahead.
S1 E22 · Wed, September 08, 2021
2 time Bassmaster Angler of the Year Gerald Swindle gets real, raw and honest. Talking about exactly what you would expect. Whatever pops into his amazing brain.
S1 E21 · Wed, September 01, 2021
Bassmaster Pro Matt Robertson is a down-to-earth, working class hero that fishing fans can’t get enough of. He is a 2 time Bassmaster Classic qualifier, a Bassmaster winner, a heart throb to the ladies and he is this week’s guest….Giddyup!
S1 E20 · Wed, August 25, 2021
Jacob Wheeler is the King of the Ding. He is a 5 time MLF Bass Pro Tour winner and 3 of those have come this season. This week he joins the show to discuss all things DING.
S1 E19 · Wed, August 18, 2021
This week’s show kicks off with one of the hardest working Bassmaster Elite Series Pros there is - Luke Palmer from his family-run hardware store in Oklahoma. Then, WWE Hall of Famer Kane, as in Mayor Kane, as in Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs jumps on to talk about Choke Slamming Dave on the Bassmaster Classic Stage.
S1 E18 · Wed, August 11, 2021
Mark Zona, host of Bassmaster TV and Zona's Awesome Fishing Show once again joins the podcast. Kick back and enjoy a candid, fun and unfiltered conversation between two true friends.
S1 E17 · Wed, August 04, 2021
With 3 Bassmaster wins and 2 Bassmaster century belts, it’s hard to believe that Patrick Walters just finished his 3rd season on the Bassmaster Elite Series. This bright, young Bassmaster has been busy but not too busy to join this week's podcast.
S1 E16 · Wed, July 28, 2021
The Amazing Feiderman, Seth Feider once again joins the show this week. We talk about childhood heroes, sucking at school, Shaw Grigsby's moustache, the Zona rub and oh ya - him being the 2021 Bassmaster Angler of the Year!!!
S1 E15 · Wed, July 21, 2021
Takumi Ito joins the show this week. Hot off his Bassmaster Elite Series win at the St Lawrence River. This amazing angler and his infectious excitement about angling and his life long dream of becoming a Bassmaster champion is truly incredible and inspiring.
S1 E14 · Wed, July 07, 2021
Bassmaster Elite Series Pro Chad Pipkens talks about his role in inventing the Flogger, Mega You Tuber Josh Jorgensen from BlackTipH gives us the details on catching the new world record tarpon and the Editor of Bassmaster Magazine James Hall fills us in on the 2021 Bassmaster Best Bass Lakes.
S1 E13 · Wed, June 30, 2021
Pete Maina is an author, professional muskellunge angler, professional photographer, TV show host, professional speaker and former magazine owner, but even with all those incredible accomplishments, he still finds time to join us on this week's MERCER Podcast.
S1 E12 · Wed, June 23, 2021
Jeff Gustafson, Gussy or the Great Canadian Snow Leopard. Call him what you want, he is one of only 2 Canadians to ever become a Bassmaster Elite Series Champion. This week he joins the show from the comfort of his Marabou built Canadian Mansion in Kenora, Ontario.
S1 E11 · Wed, June 16, 2021
Bassmaster Classic Champ-Champ Hank Cherry makes time for one of his first full interviews since winning his 2nd consecutive Bassmaster Classic. This raw and revealing interview gives a great look into the true champion and human Hank is both on and off the water.
S1 E10 · Wed, June 09, 2021
Bassmaster Classic Champion, FLW Forest Wood Cup Champion and Hall of Famer, Davy Hite and 2 time NHL Stanley Cup winner Bryan Bickell together join Dave on this week's Mercer Podcast.
S1 E9 · Wed, June 02, 2021
Tournament Champion, social media superstar & generational angling icon Scott Martin, breaks away from salt water seclusion to join Dave on this week’s MERCER podcast.
S1 E8 · Wed, May 26, 2021
This week MERCER goes one-on-one with the loud one. Bassmaster Classic Champion Mike Iaconelli catches up with Dave and opens up about everything IKE. Plus some bonus behind-the-scenes stories for this past week’s Bassmaster Elite Series event on Lake Guntersville.
S1 E7 · Wed, May 19, 2021
This week MERCER talks to 2 Bassmaster OG’s. First off it’s first ballot Bass Fishing Hall of Fame inductee & recently retired Bassmaster Tournament Director, Trip Weldon. As if that’s not enough, our final guest belongs on the Mt Rushmore of Bass Fishing. From the Bassmasters - the one and only, Mr Bob Cobb!
S1 E6 · Wed, May 12, 2021
Mercer talks to Rob Terkla from Lunkers TV & the Googan Squad about his first 3 months competing in pro tournaments & Googan Squad world domination. Next up the MC calls 4-time Emmy award winner, podcaster, Hollywood reporter & hardcore angler Chris Van Vliet to talk Floyd Mayweather vs both Logan Paul and Jake Paul. But don’t worry it’s still a fishing podcast and to prove that we ask the only Australian to ever win a Bassmaster Elite Series tournament Carl Jocumsen to join us & talk about the most offensive swear word in North America.
S1 E5 · Wed, May 05, 2021
Kinda like a fishing podcast minus a bit of slime and plus a lot of stupidity. This week, Mercer calls Bassmaster AOY leader Seth Feider, both Cory & Chris Johnston & finally a great Canadian Icon, Bubbles from the Trailer Park Boys!!
S1 E4 · Wed, April 28, 2021
This week’s awkwardly honest fishing podcast includes; Is betting on bass fishing ever going to happen? Ronnie Moore, the Stat-Rat from Bass Live and the Bassmaster photographer of the Angling Stars, James Overstreet join Dave to break down the Forkin' giant Elite Series event from Lake Fork.
S1 E3 · Wed, April 21, 2021
This week’s awkwardly honest fishing podcast includes a shocking situation that leaves Dave Forked for Lake Fork. But don’t worry, the Z’s are here to save the day as in Bassmaster Elite Series pro Chris Zaldain & The Z Train from Zona’s Awesome Fishing Show Mark Zona!
S1 E2 · Wed, April 14, 2021
This week’s awkwardly honest fishing podcast includes a full behind-the-scenes breakdown of the Record Breaking Dovetail Games Bassmaster Elite on the Sabine River. Bassmaster Classic Champion, Ott Defoe jumps on to clear his name. Lee Livesay drinking beers, catching bass & cow jumping in a bass boat!!!
S1 E1 · Thu, April 08, 2021
This week’s awkwardly honest conversation includes fish chat with Matt Pangrac from Bass Talk Live, Elite Series Pro Caleb Sumrall, Chad Hover from Kayak Bass Fishing, The Big Bass Specialist- MLF Pro Ish Monroe & finally Bassmaster Classic Champion Davy Hite!
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