Lily Pads & Lunkers: Mastering the Art of Topwater Strikes

Lily Pads & Lunkers: Mastering the Art of Topwater Strikes

Author: Host: Michael Ruffino ; Producer: Michael Wood July 21, 2025 Duration: 33:13

Terrible at Fishing with Michael Ruffino (Gold Country Radio, Fridays 7 p.m.) In this episode, Michael dives deep — into the lily pads! Join him as he explores the challenges and rewards of lily pad fishing, revealing why this topwater technique is one of the most thrilling (and tricky) ways to catch big bass.

Michael shares his favorite baits like Toad Thumper frogs, explains why hook-up rates drop with soft bodies, and teaches how to fight your instincts when the surface explodes. He breaks down gear essentials — from heavy rods and baitcasters to the best braided lines — and gives tips for using swim baits weedlessly through thick cover. Plus, hear about top local fishing spots like Lake of the Woods and Dog Lake.

Whether you’re a weekend angler or just love the sound of a splash, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and hands-on advice to up your game. Tight lines! 🎣

Catch past episodes and fishing videos on Michael’s YouTube channel, Terrible at Fishing.

🎧 Terrible at Fishing — Fridays at 7 PM on Gold Country Radio. Don’t miss it!

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…