Episode 46
A Day for Rick
Show Date: November 14, 2026
Location: Southern Wisconsin
This week we're heading out for a special day of fishing in memory of our longtime friend, Rick Hanfler, who passed away from cancer about a year and a half ago. Rick was a familiar face on our show for many years and an avid bass angler, but what made him especially memorable was the time and energy he devoted to helping sick children.
Rick was a passionate supporter of Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, and one of the ways he raised money was by hosting Packers watch parties. Friends and fellow fans would come together to watch the games, have a good time, and help raise funds for a cause that meant so much to him.
Last year, one final watch party was held in Rick's honor, continuing that tradition and raising money for Children's Hospital. Our show was proud to contribute a televised fishing trip to the fundraiser, and this week's guests, Kevin and Jay, were the lucky winners. Both were good friends of Rick's, and he actually helped mentor them early in their fishing careers. Today, they're avid bass anglers who compete in tournaments, and it's special to have them along for a trip that brings everything full circle.
Naturally, we're heading out to chase Rick's favorite species: bass.
Fall is a wonderful time to be on the water. The scenery is beautiful, fishing pressure is often lighter, and you can sometimes have an entire lake practically to yourself. That's exactly what we experienced, along with a beautiful day of weather.
The chilly mornings can make for a slower start, but as the surface temperatures warm throughout the day, the fishing often improves. That's pretty much how things played out for us. We caught fish throughout the day, with the best action coming around midday.
It was a fantastic fall day filled with bass, plenty of laughs, and good memories. More importantly, it was a chance to spend time with two anglers whose fishing journeys were shaped in part by Rick, and to remember a friend who meant so much to all of us.
Thanks for everything, Rick. You are missed, and you won't be forgotten.
