Grounded But Still Casting: Local Fishing, Big News & Bird Fest

Grounded But Still Casting: Local Fishing, Big News & Bird Fest

Author: Host: Michael Ruffino ; Producer: Michael Wood May 16, 2025 Duration: 32:19

On this heartfelt and info-packed episode of Terrible at Fishing, host Michael Raffino returns to Gold Country Radio with a bittersweet personal update: due to worsening neurological issues, he's temporarily grounded from long-distance fishing adventures. But that won't stop him from sharing local angling wisdom and infectious enthusiasm!

Michael spotlights the 25th Annual Migratory Bird Festival at Veterans Park, where he'll host a booth with his art, custom baits, and infamous cribbage boards (yes, he's still addicted). He previews the Free Fishing Weekend (June 7–8) and the magical Children’s Fishing Event at Lake of the Woods—where laughter, trophy trout, and childhood wonder collide.

From the science of lavender-colored lures to stocking reports across Southern Oregon, Michael arms listeners with everything they need for a successful spring fishing season. Plus, touching reflections on life, nature, and community make this episode one of his most personal and uplifting yet.

🎣 Topics Covered:

  • Personal health update and shift to local fishing
  • Bird watching & Klamath Falls community love
  • Migratory Bird Festival preview
  • Free Fishing Weekend & Children’s Event at Lake of the Woods
  • Hand-poured bait tips (including “Dancing Bones”)
  • Stocking schedule insights
  • Cribbage board confessionals
  • The art of bait color in different water clarities

Tune in Fridays at 7 PM and Sundays at 6 AM on Gold Country Radio! 🎣

Watch Michael Ruffino on his youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@terribleatfishing


You might be terrible at fishing, but that’s exactly where this show begins. Terrible at Fishing Radio Show on Gold Country Radio is built on the idea that the best lessons come from mistakes, and host Michael Ruffino has made plenty of them. An expert fisherman with deep roots in Southern Oregon, Michael doesn’t just share polished tips; he digs into the messy, real-world process of figuring out what actually works on the water. While the focus is on local lakes, rivers, and waterways, the insights are universal, applying to anglers casting a line anywhere. Each episode feels like a conversation with a seasoned friend who’s more interested in you catching fish than sounding like a textbook. You’ll hear practical tricks, seasonal advice, and honest discussions about why some days nothing seems to bite. Produced by Michael Wood, this podcast transforms a regional radio broadcast into a personal guide for the wilderness. It’s for anyone who loves the sport but could use a nudge away from common pitfalls, delivered with a dose of humility and a clear love for the outdoors. Tune in to shift from frustration to a more confident, enjoyable day by the water.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 25

Terrible at Fishing Radio Show on Gold Country Radio
Podcast Episodes
Careless, Crazy, or just plain Ignorant? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:02:16
This week Michael re-emphasizes the need to practice precautions while out on new ice. He tells of people that he saw this week who were either careless, crazy, or ignorant. Lake of the Woods Ice Fishing! What baits and…
Hanging in the Ice Hut -- First Ice Fishing Adventure of the year! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:03:07
Hard ice, trouble with errecting the shelter, beautiful green translucent floor, and the first fight and catch under the ice. Scary cracking sounds making you ponder if you should get up and run! Tips on baits and lines…
Fire Week [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:03:04
Why Michael fled California for Oregon. Prayers for those facing the fires. Arcade memories from childhood and a super cool blast from the past! Michael emphasized the need to be safe on the ice while out on the frozen w…
Ice Fishing! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:03:41
When is it safe to get out on the ice? How do you find out? What the heck is a spud bar? What can you catch while ice fishing? Ways to be safe out on the ice and get excited about all the fish you will catch while out on…