Beating the Heat: Soft-Bite Crappie Tactics, Premium Optics Talk, and Summer Fishing Patterns

Catfish Radio Show Notes – June 20 Segment 1: High-Quality Optics & Upcoming Conservation Events

Luke Clayton and Larry Weishuhn kick off the hour talking about the value of investing in high-quality glass for your rifles.

• Scope Investments: Larry emphasizes that spending a bit more on a premium scope—such as those produced by Stealth Vision—is a worthwhile investment for long-term accuracy and durability in the field.

• Sighting In & Practice: The guys discuss the benefits of custom turret systems and long-range shooting, sharing stories from dialing in their rifles at the range.

• Summer Conventions: Mark your calendars for upcoming events, including the Texas Wildlife Association convention and the DSC Summer Show happening July 23rd through the 26th at the Gaylord Texan.

Segment 2: A Virginia Outdoor Getaway with Samuel Old

Samuel Old joins the show to share details about his newly renovated outdoor retreat in Virginia.

• Craig Creek Shady Rest: Samuel details this beautiful, over-100-year-old property that was formerly a boys' camp, located right on the banks of Craig Creek.

• Activities: The property is a wildlife lover's paradise where guests can cast a line directly off the back deck, hike, and view abundant wildlife, including deer, bear, and turkeys.

• Booking: Listeners can find more information, see pictures of the remodel, and reach out to book a stay via the "Craig Creek Shady Rest" Facebook page.

Segment 3: Summer Crappie Fishing Tactics with Chris Webb

Guide Chris Webb stops by to talk about beating the heat and catching crappie on Cedar Creek Lake.

• Detecting the Bite: Chris explains that summer crappie often have a very soft bite, making it crucial to feel for the rod "loading up" rather than waiting for a hard, aggressive tug.

• Summer Patterns: The key to success is adjusting to the time of day; Chris recommends targeting brush piles and laydowns in 10 to 12 feet of water during the cooler mornings, then moving out to the 15 to 20-foot range as the sun gets high.

• Bait & Technique: Using live minnows with a slow, steady, and smooth presentation is the absolute best ticket for getting these lethargic summer fish to commit.

Segment 4: Crossbow Hunting Prep with Larry Weishuhn

Larry returns to close out the show, and the conversation shifts to the growing popularity and utility of crossbows.

• Ease of Use: Larry shares his experiences shooting a 10-Point crossbow, noting how modern features like the slide cocking mechanism make them highly accessible and fun for hunters of all ages.

• Sighting In: The guys discuss the process of dialing in a crossbow, with Larry explaining how he zeroes in dead-on at 20 yards before stepping back to practice his groups at 30 and 40 yards.

• Fall Prep: They wrap up the hour by looking ahead to upcoming fall hunts, including planned trips to Oklahoma and the Choctaw Nation where their crossbows will definitely be put to good use.