Better Fishing with 2 Bald Biologists

Hail to the Chief: A Deep Dive into Fisheries Rules Feb 11, 2025

Join Corey and Ben as they sit down with Christian Waters, Chief of Inland Fisheries, to explore the ins and outs of fisheries regulations. Why do these rules exist? Who do they impact? Are they even necessary? Tune in as they dive deep into the world of fisheries management.

Rising Waters: What Do Aquatic Animals Do When Natural Disasters Strike? Jan 14, 2025

Hurricane Helene devastated many North Carolina mountain communities last September. In this episode, Corey and Ben discuss how fish respond to natural disasters, how the Commission plans to rebuild destroyed mountain trout hatcheries, and how our staff are assessing the affected streams and habitats while planning for the future.

Talking Bass Fishing and Management with the Pros: Part 2 Dec 17, 2024

In this two-part podcast series, Corey and Ben sit down with professional bass anglers Matt Arey and Bryan Thrift, two of the most respected names in the bass fishing community. Based in North Carolina, their achievements have earned them national recognition. Tune in as Matt and Bryan share their expert insights on key topics such as bass fishing techniques, bass conservation efforts, stocking programs, and the NCWRC’s native aquatic plant initiative.

Talking Bass Fishing and Management with the Pros: Part 1 Dec 10, 2024

In this two-part podcast series, Corey and Ben sit down with professional bass anglers Matt Arey and Bryan Thrift, two of the most respected names in the bass fishing community. Based in North Carolina, their achievements have earned them national recognition. Tune in as Matt and Bryan share their expert insights on key topics such as bass fishing techniques, bass conservation efforts, stocking programs, and the NCWRC’s native aquatic plant initiative.

You Ain’t From Around Here! Nov 12, 2024

Our two bald biologists are joined by Assistant Fish Chief Rachael Hoch to discuss both the harmful effects and the fishing opportunities presented by aquatic nuisance species. Learn how these aquatic nuisance species threaten our native aquatic life and why it's crucial to educate one another about not introducing animals into environments where they don't belong. And remember—doing so could land you in a 'blue light special.'

Carping 101 Oct 08, 2024

Ben and Corey are joined by District Fisheries Biologist Deon Kerr to learn about carping. While Ben and Corey are new to the sport, Deon's enthusiasm reveals just how much fun carping can be—tune in to learn essential skills you will need to wrestle these water donkeys!

The Public Water Mountain Trout Program Sep 19, 2024

In this episode, Corey and Ben chat with Doug Besler, Mountain Region Supervisor, about trout fishing in North Carolina. Discover expert insights on trout management and the best fishing spots across the state.

Get to Know Your Better Fishing With Two Bald Biologists Podcast Hosts Sep 10, 2024

Ever wonder how Ben & Corey became the Bald Biologists? We are dropping a bonus episode to talk about that, NC fishing, and the work of the NC Wildlife Resources Commission. Your hosts also share how you can contact your local fish biologist.

2024 Facebook Live Q & A Podcast Sep 10, 2024

Listen into the second annual Facebook Live question and answer session. Ben and Corey talk about their recent fishing trips and respond to angler questions in real time on Facebook Live. The two bald biologists cover a variety of angler topics from all over North Carolina.

Westward Bound Jul 09, 2024

The 2 Bald Biologist head to Lake Apalachia, the westernmost point in North Carolina in search of trophy Brown Trout. Listen in as Corey and Ben discuss this hidden jewel of the Blue Ridge with District 9 Fisheries Biologist Amanda Bushon and longtime area angler David Woody.

Fishing the Pocosin Lakes Jun 11, 2024

Ben and Corey are joined by District 1 Fisheries Biologists Chris Smith and Deon Kerr as they try to tackle fishing clear shallow water for quality Largemouth Bass at Lake Phelps.

Municipal Lake Largemouth Bass: North Carolina’s Hidden Gems for Bass May 01, 2024

In this episode, Corey and Ben talk bass fishing in North Carolina’s many municipal lakes with long time Piedmont biologist Lawrence Dorsey. Discover quality bass fishing in these unique waterbodies scattered throughout North Carolina.

Coastal Shad fishing with NC Wildlife Biologist David Belkoski Apr 03, 2024

Our two bald biologists, Ben and Corey, talk about spring shad fishing with NC Wildlife biologist David Belkoski. No shad topic is safe. We cover the biology of shad and fishing for them throughout the coast. Listen in to glean tips that will help you become a better shad angler and understand why shad migrate from the Bay of Fundy to our back yards.

Cold water Catfish: On the Cape Fear with Tyler Barnes Mar 12, 2024

Join Corey and Ben discussing winter catfishing on the Cape Fear River with prominent North Carolina catfish angler, Tyler Barnes. Our two bald biologists talk about catfish fishing tactics and conservation concerns.

Fishing Access and Boat Ramps Feb 13, 2024

Corey and Ben talk with Nick Shaver, NC Wildlife’s Land and Water Access Division Coastal Ecoregion Supervisor, about boat ramps and public fishing areas across North Carolina. Our two bald biologists talk fishing, boating, and the significant work the Land and Water Access Division does for North Carolina anglers and boaters. Nick also shares a secret tip about his favorite lure, the spinner bait.

Fishing 101 Jan 19, 2024

Ben and Corey talk about the basics of fishing tackle. How to get started with minimal expense. If you have never fished and are thinking about getting in to fishing for yourself or for your children, this is the podcast for you. Listen all the way to the end to find out how you can win a Better Fishing with Two Bald Biologist swag bag.

Kayak Fishing NC from mountains to coast Dec 12, 2023

NC Wildlife’s Two Bald Biologists talk kayak fishing with the North Carolina Kayak Fishing Association’s president, Mark Patterson, an avid and diverse kayak angler. We cover fishing for everything from Redear Sunfish to Flathead Catfish. If you are interested in getting into kayak fishing or are currently floating down a creek, this is the podcast for you. The conversation even touches on a fish biologist’s stance on a non-fish creature, the elusive Sasquatch.

Overlooked bass fishing in coastal North Carolina with NCWRC biologist TD VanMiddlesworth Nov 08, 2023

Coastal North Carolina is often an overlooked destination for Largemouth Bass anglers. NCWRC Fisheries Biologist TD VanMiddlesworth joins Corey & Ben to talk about bass and bass fishing. We’ll discuss our coastal river bass surveys, hurricane fish kill recovery, and fishing the herring run. You may be surprised to learn just how good the fishing is at the coast.

NC Coastal Crappies and Fliers Oct 11, 2023

Kevin Dockendorf, Coastal Fisheries Research Coordinator, joins Ben and Corey to talk about the biology and how to fish for Coastal Crappies and the rare and elusive sunfish, the Flier. Tune in for great techniques and what we are learning about these fish.

Riverine Smallmouth Bass Fishing: How Ben lost his sole in the heart of the Blue Ridge Sep 27, 2023

Join Ben and Corey as they discuss riverine smallmouth bass fishing and biology with District 8 Fisheries Biologist David Goodfred. The group discuss how these native fish can offer excitement on light tackle and how NC Wildlife manages these fisheries throughout western North Carolina.

Facebook Live Fishing Podcast Q & A with the Two Bald Biologists Sep 15, 2023

In case you missed the live show, tune into our first Facebook Live fishing podcast where Corey and Ben answered NC anglers most pressing questions.

Fish Production: Backbone of the Inland Fisheries Division Jul 12, 2023

Ben and Corey are joined by David Deaton, Fish Production Supervisor for the Inland Fisheries Division, to discuss the importance of fish production for not only fish we like to catch and eat, but for animals that are important to the biodiversity of our great state.

Lake Wylie Catfish and the Curse of the Banana Moonpie Jun 14, 2023

Corey and Ben go fishing and talk with Dieter Melhorn about techniques for fishing for reservoir catfish on Lake Wylie. The guys discuss why catfishing is increasing in popularity in North Carolina and why you should never eat anything banana while on a boat!

REDCREST Special Edition #2 May 11, 2023

Corey and Ben are back at REDCREST 2023 talking with anglers Wesley Strader, Andy Montgomery, and the one and only Kevin Van Dam about the sport of bass fishing and the importance of fisheries conservation.

REDCREST Special Edition #1 May 11, 2023

Ben and Corey are at REDCREST 2023 talking with Major League Fishing founder Gary Klein and anglers Britt Myers and Marty Robinson about the sport of bass fishing and the importance of fisheries conservation.

Jordan Lake: Largemouth Bass With the Bass Fishing Biologist May 10, 2023

Corey and Ben welcome Seth Mycko the District 5 Fisheries Biologist to discuss why there are big Largemouth Bass in Jordan Lake.

Roanoke River Striped Bass: River Rats and Hairy Worms Apr 13, 2023

Ben and Corey welcome Bob Branch, a native of Weldon, North Carolina, who grew up fishing on the Roanoke River. They discuss the history and all things Striped Bass fishing along the Roanoke River.

River Herring Past, Present, and Future! Mar 08, 2023

Ben and Corey speak with Christopher Smith, District 1 Fisheries Biologist, to discuss the rise and all of what was once a great fishery. They talk about both the biological and cultural importance of river herring to Eastern North Carolina rivers. What was once abundant has disappeared: Listen to find out what happened, where we are now and where we hope to be in the future.

Muskellunge on the French Broad River: The Curse of the White Squirrel Feb 08, 2023

Join Corey and Ben as they discuss the highs and lows of fishing for Muskie on the French Broad River. They discuss Muskie biology and fishing techniques with Tim Boyer, president of the Western NC Muskie Club and Scott Loftis, NCWRC Warmwater Fisheries Research Coordinator for the Mountain Region.

Hybrid Striped Bass the Fish With Many Names Jan 11, 2023

Hybrid Striped Bass are found in many of North Carolina’s piedmont lakes where habitat is not suitable for Striped Bass. They offer excellent angling action and table fare. NCWRC’s Piedmont Region Fisheries Research Coordinator Kelsey Roberts joins us to talk about Hybrid Striped Bass and some of the current research that has been conducted on Lake Norman

Ponds and Pond Management with NC Wildlife Commissioner John Stone Dec 14, 2022

Ben and Corey talk with NCWRC Commissioner John Stone about some of the unique things he is doing on his ponds and pond management in general. Tune in for tips and strategies on how to manage your favorite pond.

North Carolina’s mountain Brook Trout “The wildflower of the mountains.” Nov 09, 2022

A North Carolina native, Brook Trout, “The wildflower of the mountains.” Corey and Ben talk with the N.C. Wildlife Commission’s trout biologist, Jake Rash, about conserving brook trout and their importance to North Carolina.

Talking Catfish With NC Record Holder Tyler Barnes Oct 12, 2022

Catfishing in North Carolina is growing rapidly. Join our two bald biologists, Corey and Ben, as they talk about balancing catfish angling opportunities and conservation concerns with flathead catfish record holder Tyler Barnes.

Trophy Catfish Tournaments and Tactics With Tyler Barnes Sep 16, 2022

The Two Bald Biologists talk catfish fishing with North Carolina flathead catfish record holder Tyler Barnes. Tune in while we talk about fishing for trophy catfish, the catfish tournament scene, and all the gear necessary for success.

Crappie Fishing on Jordan Lake, North Carolina Aug 10, 2022

Hosts Corey and Ben talk crappie fishing with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission’s Executive Director, Cam Ingram. Listen in and get tips and pointers from the Director himself.

Bass Fishing 101 in North Carolina: Part 2 Jul 13, 2022

Professional Bassmaster Elite Series angler Matt Arey from Shelby, North Carolina is back and joins hosts Corey and Ben to discuss all things Bass Fishing! Listen in as our two bald biologists and Matt discuss the invasive Alabama Bass and more issues facing bass fishing in NC.

Bass Fishing 101 in North Carolina Jun 15, 2022

Professional Bassmaster Elite Series angler Matt Arey from Shelby, North Carolina joins hosts Corey and Ben to discuss all things Bass Fishing! Listen in as our two bald biologists get Matt to share his professional insights on catching those elusive bass!

North Carolina Mountain Trout Fishing May 09, 2022

North Carolina’s Public Mountain Trout Waters. Ben and Corey talk with the N.C. Wildlife Commission’s coldwater trout biologist, Jake Rash, about trout fishing and conservation in the mountains of North Carolina.

Striped Bass Fishing on the Roanoke River in NC Apr 06, 2022

Ben and Corey talk striped bass fishing and biology on the Roanoke River, one of the most popular fisheries in North Carolina. Tune in to hear more about this incredible fish and fishery.

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