MERCER-The Awkwardly Honest Fishing Podcast

Ben Milliken From YouTube to the Bassmaster Elite Series on MERCER-133

Ben Milliken is one of the biggest YouTube anglers in the game. But that was not enough for him. He wanted more-he wanted to chase his childhood dream of fishing the Bassmaster Elite Series. In one year he did what many people predicted was impossible. Not only did he win a Bassmaster Open and qualify for the Bassmaster Classic but he qualified for the Bassmaster Elite Series. This week Ben joins the podcast to talk about all of that and so much more. 

Clark Wendlandt - STILL DRIVEN on MERCER-132

This week's guest is a 18-time FLW Cup Qualifier, a 6-time Bassmaster Classic Qualifier, a 4-time Angler of the Year with over $3 million dollars in winnings, Clark Wendlandt joins me this week from somewhere deep in the heart of Texas.

Jacob Powroznik - The Fishing World Has Gone Bananas on MERCER-131

Qualifier. This week he takes some time away from hunting to join the podcast. We chat about his early years traveling with Bassmaster Classic Champion Woo Daves, what drives him, what he would like to see changed in the tournament world and ultimately, his thoughts on the current fishing world going bananas.

Pat Schlapper - Hard Work Is Undefeated on MERCER-130

The always open and always honest Pat Schlapper once again returns to the show. Hot off of qualifying for his 3rd Bassmaster Classic, the former Bass Nation National Champion opens up about everything and we mean EVERYTHING. Get your popcorn ready because Pat always tells it like he sees it and no topic is off limits this week. Warning - this episode is both awkward and honest. 

Bryant Smith & Jake’s Take on MERCER-129

This week we have another double dose of goodness. First we are joined by Bassmaster Elite Series rookie Bryant Smith hot off setting the Bassmaster record for the biggest single day smallmouth bass limit in history (29lbs 5 ounces). Then we have Jake’s Take, Bassmaster Videographer and friend of the show, Jake Latendresse returns with the ultimate behind-the-scenes Bassmaster break down of everything that happened at the Bassmaster Open at Lake of the Ozarks.

Bryan New and Jake’s Take on MERCER-128

This week we once again double down with two incredible guests. First, we are joined by two-time Bassmaster winner and three-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier Bryan New, with a very open and honest look back on his toughest Elite Series season ever. Then it’s time for Jake’s Take. Bassmaster Videographer and friend of the show, Jake Latendresse returns with the ultimate behind-the-scenes Bassmaster break down of everything that REALLY happened at the Watts Bar Bassmaster Open that was just won by Tyler Williams.

Matty Wong and Logan Parks on MERCER-127

This week we once again have a double dose of goodness. First, former Bass Nation National Champion Matty Wong joins the show hot off an amazing northern swing that literally saved his Bassmaster Elite Series career. Then, Bassmaster Opens EQ angler Logan Parks joins the show on MERCER-127.

Kyle Welcher 2023 Bassmaster Angler of the Year on MERCER-126

Stone Cold Kyle Welcher just won one of the most coveted titles in pro fishing. He is the 2023 Progressive Bassmaster Angler of the Year. Welcher, a former professional gambler, is one of the brightest young stars in pro fishing. His incredible mind and unique outlook on angling is truly remarkable. We can’t thank him enough for making this podcast his first stop only days after becoming the newest Bassmaster Angler of the Year.

Patrick Walters and Jake’s Take on MERCER-125

This week we have a double dose of goodness. The newest Bassmaster Elite Series Champion Patrick Walters, hot off setting the record for the biggest winning weight of smallmouth bass joins the show and of course we have Jake’s Take. Bassmaster Videographer and friend of the show, Jake Latendresse returns with the ultimate behind-the-scenes Bassmaster break down of everything that REALLY happened on and off the water at the Bassmaster Elite Series on Lake Champlain and the St Lawrence River.

Kevin VanDam ”I’m Far From Done!” on MERCER-124

Kevin VanDam is the most dominant professional angler in the history of the sport. For over 30 years he has been on the top of every single aspect of the Sportfishing, both on the water and off - KVD has simply set the standard. After recently retiring from tournament competition Kevin joins this week’s podcast to remind us all that he is “far from done”.