july 2025

Episode 27

Jet Boat Bass with Rob Manthei

Show Date: July 5, 2025

Location: St. Germain, Wisconsin

Accommodations: St. Germain Lodge [715-542-3433 - www.stgermainlodge.com]

This week, we’re taking a little adventure and doing something a bit different. Pro guide Rob Manthei has added a jet-driven boat to his guiding lineup—these specialized boats are made for running in shallow rivers, accessing remote stretches of water where traditional prop boats can’t go.

We’re on the river chasing bass, though Rob also uses the jet boat to target walleyes, pike, and muskie in these same hard-to-reach areas. The bait of the day was a jerkbait, and the fish were locked in on it. Even John’s trusted Kalin’s Jerk Minnow couldn’t tempt a bite.

The key? Extra-long pauses—we’re talking longer than you’d think—were the secret to getting these river bass to commit.

Episode 28

Nonstop Panfish Action

Show Date: July 12, 2025

Location: Madison Chain of Lake, Madison, Wisconsin 

Guide: Justin Neu [920-382-7890]

We’re excited to hit the water again with pro guide and panfish expert Justin Neu. Justin knows this area like the back of his hand and guides on a variety of lakes, each full of opportunities for fun and steady action.

On this trip, we kept things simple and effective—using a drop shot rig with a gold Aberdeen hook and a red worm. And it worked like a charm.

It was the kind of day that takes you back—nonstop bites, one fish after another, and nothing but fun. If you’ve got young anglers or someone just getting into fishing, this is the kind of trip they’ll never forget.

Episode 29

Back on the Flowage with Jeff Winters

Show Date: July 19, 2025

Location: The Turtle-Flambeau Flowage, Iron County, Wisconsin 

Guide: Pro Guide Jeff Winters [715-385-9313 | jeffsguideservice.com]

This week we’re fishing one of the most scenic and productive bodies of water in northern Wisconsin—the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage in Iron County. As always, we’re joined by longtime guide and flowage expert Jeff Winters, who knows every bend and bay of this wild, beautiful fishery.

The Turtle-Flambeau is famous for multi-species action and steady bites. From start to finish, there’s always something tugging on the line—and with a little luck, you’ll be heading home with a mess of fish perfect for a classic Northwoods fish fry.

Episode 30

Exploring New Waters

Show Date: July 26, 2025

Location: Copper Harbor, Michigan

This week, we’re heading off the beaten path with friend and pro bass angler Ron Johnson, who now calls Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula home. Ron’s been spending time exploring the countless lakes in the region, and today he takes us to one he’s been eager to check out—targeting walleyes, with a strong suspicion we’ll run into some bass along the way.

Joining us on this special trip is John’s nephew Charlie, whose late mother had arranged this adventure before her recent passing. It’s a meaningful day on the water—full of memories, exploration, and fish.