<p>Spring is here, and that means one thing… the bite is ON! In this episode of Tennessee WildCast, host Jason Harmon is joined by longtime friends of the agency and true legends of the water, Joey and Debbie Monteleone. These two spend well over 100 days a year on the water and have reeled in everything from lake‑record bass to surprise catfish that can tow a kayak like a pontoon. If there’s a better pair to talk spring fishing with, we haven’t met them yet.</p><p>Joey and Debbie break down all things spring fishing—what to throw, how to read the water, and why early spring might be the most exciting time of year to chase big bass. From buzzbaits in 56‑degree water to oversized spinnerbaits built to tempt trophy fish, the Monteleones share the baits they trust and the techniques that keep them catching fish trip after trip. Debbie offers her go‑to shaky head insights, Joey dives into jig and crankbait strategy, and together they share why slowing down, adjusting, and being intuitive on the water makes all the difference.</p><p>Thinking about getting on a kayak? They’ve got tips for equipment, safety, stability, and the minimalist gear setup they rely on. Want to get kids hooked on fishing? They talk Free Fishing Day, basic starter gear, and why nothing beats watching a kid reel in their first bluegill.</p><p>Whether you're tuning in for bass‑catching wisdom, kayak talk, or just a good laugh, this episode is packed with stories, pro-level advice, and Tennessee pride. Grab your gear, hit that subscribe button, and come along as we talk spring fishing in the Volunteer State. We’ll be Tennessee‑ing you!</p>

Tennessee WildCast

Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency

#477 Big Bass On A Yak!

APR 13, 202628 MIN
Tennessee WildCast

#477 Big Bass On A Yak!

APR 13, 202628 MIN

Description

<p>Spring is here, and that means one thing… the bite is ON! In this episode of Tennessee WildCast, host Jason Harmon is joined by longtime friends of the agency and true legends of the water, Joey and Debbie Monteleone. These two spend well over 100 days a year on the water and have reeled in everything from lake‑record bass to surprise catfish that can tow a kayak like a pontoon. If there’s a better pair to talk spring fishing with, we haven’t met them yet.</p><p>Joey and Debbie break down all things spring fishing—what to throw, how to read the water, and why early spring might be the most exciting time of year to chase big bass. From buzzbaits in 56‑degree water to oversized spinnerbaits built to tempt trophy fish, the Monteleones share the baits they trust and the techniques that keep them catching fish trip after trip. Debbie offers her go‑to shaky head insights, Joey dives into jig and crankbait strategy, and together they share why slowing down, adjusting, and being intuitive on the water makes all the difference.</p><p>Thinking about getting on a kayak? They’ve got tips for equipment, safety, stability, and the minimalist gear setup they rely on. Want to get kids hooked on fishing? They talk Free Fishing Day, basic starter gear, and why nothing beats watching a kid reel in their first bluegill.</p><p>Whether you're tuning in for bass‑catching wisdom, kayak talk, or just a good laugh, this episode is packed with stories, pro-level advice, and Tennessee pride. Grab your gear, hit that subscribe button, and come along as we talk spring fishing in the Volunteer State. We’ll be Tennessee‑ing you!</p>