The BackCast Podcast episode 80 with guest Chris Sparkman
In this episode, Richard and John sit down with rod maker Chris Sparkman. Chris is a retired math teacher and a talented rod maker. We held this recording back a few weeks to coincide with the 2024 edition of the Rod Makers at Grayrock conclave. We have a couple of other rod makers lined up; so be sure to check back for some more great listening!
--------
59:16
The BackCast Podcast episode 79 with Michigan NRC Commissioner John Walters
In this episode of the Backcast Podcast, John and Richard are joined by John Walters. John has been deeply involved in conservation for well over 20 years. Whether leading TU at the local and state levels, serving as a director for the Anglers of the Au Sable or serving on the state’s Nature Resource Commission; John is at the conservation forefront of our rivers and woods and of the wildlife therein. John is a great conversationalist and is always a fun guest.
--------
52:48
The Backcast Podcast - Episode 78 - Fishing, the Courtroom, and More with George Mertz
In this episode of the Backcast Podcast we delve into the complexity of the legal system, the world of fishing and more with our special guest, George Mertz, a circuit court judge and passionate outdoor enthusiast. George takes us on an enlightening journey through his unique experiences both from the bench and riverside, offering insights into technology’s impact on court transparency, the joys and challenges of fly fishing, child engagement in outdoor activities, and in-depth tales of trout conservation.
--------
1:04:07
The BackCast Podcast episode 77 with film maker Robert Thompson
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the BackCast Podcast! We're excited to offer you a special off cycle episode with our film making friend Robert Thompson.
Our regular listeners may recognize RT’s name from his film The River. We’re especially pleased to be one of the first stops on his “film tour” celebrating the release of a new streaming offering called Night of the Hex II.
"As June arrives in the Midwest, it ushers in the emergence of the "Michigan Mayfly" or Hexagenia Limbata. This prolific hatch comes off at night and with it brings out the biggest trout to gorge on these bugs. This is truly a unique fishing experience and can offer an angler both heartbreak and the possibility of a trophy brown trout, often in a single night.
Follow five Midwestern fly fisherman, through various obstacles, as they chase this hatch and hunt these large brown trout under the cover of dark.
"Night of the Hex II" offers a glimpse into the fly fishing culture on Michigan's Au Sable river and what goes into fishing a hatch that is so unique, it has rarely been photographed."
Preview/Rent/Buy on Vimeo - http://vimeo.com/ondemand/noth2
Catch up with RT on Instagram @thirdyearff
--------
1:08:02
The BackCast Podcast episode 76 with guest Amy Trotter of MUCC
We're back with an out of cycle treat for you. Our guest for this episode is Amy Trotter who serves as the CEO for MUCC, the nation’s largest, most effective state-based conservation organization. Having served in this role since December 2018, Amy has been serving as Deputy Director since 2015 and on MUCC staff since 2007. She is responsible for carrying out the strategic objectives of the organization in all its phases: policy/program; outreach/education; communications; administrative and fundraising. Trotter provides staff leadership and development opportunities for up to 12 full-time staff and oversees the business operations, works with the MUCC Executive and Conservation Policy Boards and leads the annual budget development (~$1.4 million operating budget).
This is a fun and informative conversation; we hope you enjoy it!
The BackCast Podcast is a seasonal production of the Lovells Township Historical Society - home to Michigan’s only trout fishing history museum. If you like Michigan rivers, trout fishing with a fly, maybe chasing birds in the woods, or just like hearing a good story; please join us. LTHS is a 501c3 non-profit organization. If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support us; please visit www.LTHSMuseums.org Tell your friends – we love downloads and likes!