Published by American Saltwater Guides Association
A community hub where anglers, fishing guides, scientists, and policymakers connect to discuss fisheries, their history, their futures, and the importance of effective management. Produced by the American Saltwater Guides Association. Presented by Costa Sunglasses.
Listen on Apple Podcasts1 hr 3 min
Deep-sea mining threatens some of the East Coast’s most pristine and vital ecosystems — and it’s happening without public awareness or adequate testing. Join a long-time ocean scientist and a seasoned environmental advocate to uncover Virginia’s first offshore mineral exploration initiative, unravel a complex web of corporate interests, regulatory gaps, and ecological risks that could change the Chesapeake Bay forever.
1 hr 57 min
The old stock assessment models, with fixed effects and oversimplified assumptions, have failed to capture the true biological and spatial complexity of striped bass populations. Now, a cutting-edge model called WAM (Woods Hole Assessment Model) promises to deliver a far more realistic picture — but only if we understand its potential and pitfalls. In this episode, we dive into the heart of the debate: Can the new WAM model address longstanding flaws like fixed mortality rates and unreliable data inputs? In this episode, scientists and anglers unpack how the transition from traditional catch-at-age models to probabilistic, spatially explicit frameworks could reshape our understanding of recruitment, natural mortality, and spawning stock biomass. We explore the limitations of basic assumptions—like constant mortality across fish sizes—and reveal how outdated science has misled managers, impacting regulations and future conservation efforts.
55 min
The Guide Post is joined by a very familiar face that's been gone for a minute...
1 hr 4 min
If you've been underestimating just how political and opaque LA fisheries management truly is, recent bills reveal the game of influence and power at play behind the scenes. Join two Louisiana fishing guides and a fisheries scientist as they give you a peak behind the curtain...
1 hr 15 min
Most redfish populations are declining faster than we can keep up with, but the fix isn’t as simple as placing blame on one culprit, whether that’s the menhaden industry or elsewhere. When everyone agrees that overfishing, habitat loss, and changing ecosystems are key factors, why do some still aim to hijack redfish conservation conversations with contentious agendas? In this eye-opening episode, angling experts from Louisiana, South Carolina, Virginia, and Texas reveal the truth about the real causes behind redfish declines—and why pointing fingers only delays solutions.
1 hr 14 min
This episode emphasizes the importance of honest conversation, responsible management, and anglers' role in fisheries management. With insight into the upcoming menhaden stock assessments and efforts to push meaningful policy changes, it's time to realign honest conversations about "bunker" and striped bass that don't cannibalize each other. Both deserve powerful advocacy and need fisheries reform. Don't be fooled by social media hype—get the facts, hear the truth, and understand what it truly takes to turn the tide. Guest experts include fly tyer Blaine Chocklett, guide Ray Jarvis, surfcaster Jake Hardy and industry professional Mike Hogan, all with decades of experience on the water chasing our beloved striped fish.
1 hr 5 min
The "Roadless Rule" has safeguarded millions of acres of wild national forests for nearly two decades. Now, this safeguard is under attack. Sean Cosgrove, a seasoned conservationist with over 20 years of expertise “in the arena” joined the podcast to discuss how powerful policies are under attack again, risking the very lands that provide your outdoor experiences, habitat for wildlife, and the health of our watersheds.
58 min
Redfish populations in Georgia are facing a crisis, and the clock is ticking. The state’s current regulators are only offering minimal changes, despite decades of scientific evidence showing the fishery is struggling. Meanwhile, neighboring states are taking bold, aggressive steps to protect and rebuild their stocks, leaving Georgia’s approach dangerously behind. Why? Because political pressure and bureaucratic inertia have stymied meaningful action, risking the future of one of the region’s most treasured fisheries. In this episode, conservationist and Georgia fly shop owner Jared DiVincent joins host Tony Friedrich to recap behind-the-scenes battles over redfish regulations. They reveal how outdated management models, influenced by industry anecdotes and political favorites, threaten to turn Georgia’s redfish fishery. Access the following link for more resources - click here for the Georgia Saltwater Anglers Association webpage and click here for One Hundred Miles Redfish Resources .
1 hr 14 min
Episode 209
1 hr 24 min
Most fisheries are managed with a complicated web of science, industry, and politics... but what would it take to manage them in a utopian world? In this episode, fisheries scientist John Carlucci joins for a discussion about how industry collaboration, innovative research, and a human touch can define our approach to sustainable fishing. From growing up fishing in Connecticut to working at the Pelagic Fisheries Lab in Maine, John reveals the behind-the-scenes of tagging giant bluefin tuna, deciphering their age through otoliths, and the pivotal role industry partners play in collecting critical data. He illustrates how industry involvement isn’t just incidental; it’s the backbone of impactful science that informs management and rebuilds fish populations.
1 hr 1 min
For such a small state, Connecticut is a powerhouse of outdoor recreation, fisheries, and conservation success stories that could serve as a model for the entire country. In this special episode, Tony is joined by Mason Trumbull, Deputy Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, and Jeff Shaw, Director of the Office of Outdoor Industry and Experiences. Together, they reveal how Connecticut’s innovative approach is turning ecological health into vibrant economic growth, demonstrating that sustainable fisheries and accessible outdoor spaces are the ultimate win-win.
20 min
Captain Cody Rubner provides an overview of two key topics in southeast fisheries.
54 min
Captain Bailey Short and Mario Campo host an open dialogue about red drum management in Louisiana.
40 min
Join Captain Ray Jarvis of Massachusetts and Captain Ben Whalley of Maine as they chat fishing, tactics and changing tides for one of the Atlantic Ocean's most iconic fisheries.
6 min
The North Carolina Marine Fisheries Commission is taking a clear, common-sense step forward at its May 2026 meeting. The proposed rule for Atlantic bonito (15A NCAC 03M .0524) is exactly the kind of proactive management we need more of on the Atlantic coast. North Carolina currently has no rules in place for Atlantic bonito. No size limit. No bag limit. No stock assessment. Meanwhile, recreational landings have been climbing steadily since 2017 and now exceed the long-term average. North Carolina alone accounts for 22 percent of all coastwide recreational bonito harvest . That is a massive share of a coastal migratory resource, and the trend is unmistakable.
1 hr 33 min
This episode is an important one, and not just because of the implications for red drum and menhaden management. This episode is the epitome of why we started the Guide Post years ago. The conservation community has been actively advocating for the reform of redfish and menhaden management in Louisiana. Advocates are rightfully riled up - and our team is far from shy when it comes to speaking the truth. We have done so in recent years on both fronts, especially in recent weeks regarding a menhaden bill package and a new proposal regarding bull red harvest at rodeos. Representative Joseph Orgeron reached out after our last episode and requested to join us for episode 202. His goal was to clear the air and foster a respectful conversation about recent happenings, his goals, our perspectives and differences in opinion. We believe that the goal was accomplished. As always, shoot us an email or message on social to let us know your thoughts - or if you have any lingering questions for Rep. Orgeron that may not have been answered here.
55 min
Everything isn't as it seems in the world of fisheries policy. What's happening right now in the Gulf is no exception.
1 hr 1 min
We have somehow racked up 200 episodes of this dang thing. We can't believe it either. We decided to use this celebratory episode to goof off with the guides and advocates who make this episode possible. Enjoy a launch and get ready to hop back on the fisheries policy train for episode 201.
50 min
EP199
54 min