Loss, Laughs & Line Casts – A Bittersweet Fishing Journey

Loss, Laughs & Line Casts – A Bittersweet Fishing Journey

Author: Host: Michael Ruffino ; Producer: Michael Wood June 27, 2025 Duration: 32:20

In this heartfelt and humorous episode of Terrible at Fishing, host Michael Ruffino returns after a brief hiatus with stories that span grief, celebration, and a whole lot of misadventure. Michael opens up about the emotional loss of his family dog, sharing the deeply human side of life that fishing can never quite distract from. But the tides turn as he recounts a trip to Lincoln City celebrating his wife's college graduation—complete with dolphins, whales, beach walks, and his latest favorite board game, Canvas.

True to form, Michael proves once again why he's the proud face of “Terrible at Fishing.” From catching a single cod on a “cattle boat” in Depoe Bay to pulling up just a pound of crab after hours of work, his tales are as funny as they are relatable. Things get even more adventurous when he takes his first e-bike fishing trip, dodges a kamikaze chicken, trespasses unintentionally, and logs 40 miles in search of a bite that never really came.

Plus, Michael dives into detailed local fish stocking updates, shares tips (and what not to do), and encourages listeners to enjoy this prime season on the water. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just in it for the stories, this episode reels in the heart and the humor.

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
Spring Fishing Secrets & Hidden Hotspots [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:44
On this week's episode of Terrible at Fishing, host and self-proclaimed "expert at being terrible," Michael Ruffino, shares everything he learned at the local fishing club's special presentation by ODFW biologist Bill Te…
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Bait Hacks and DIY Tricks: Reel in More Fish! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:02
Join fishing expert and host Michael Ruffino on this week’s episode of Terrible at Fishing as he dives into the art of bait making and shares invaluable tips to improve your fishing game. Broadcasting from Gold Country R…
Lines and spring-time anticipation as well as an unusual massage! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Join Michael Ruffino on this episode of Terrible at Fishing, where he dives into the latest fishing tips, weather updates, and community events! With the ice on local lakes becoming sketchy, Michael stresses the importan…
Prepping for Spring and Remembering a Friend [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:14
On this episode of Terrible at Fishing, host Michael Ruffino reflects on the recent passing of a fellow fly fisherman and longtime club member, offering heartfelt condolences to his family. As winter winds down, Michael…
Ice Fishing Derby, Bigfoot, and Osage Orange Wonders [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:56
Welcome back to Terrible at Fishing! This week, host Michael Rafino is feeling better and ready to share all the excitement from the Lake of the Woods Terrible at Fishing Ice Fishing Derby! With 75 anglers and tons of gr…
Fishing Derby [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:11
In this heartfelt episode of Terrible at Fishing on Cold Country Radio, host Michael Rafino brings us the latest fishing updates from Klamath Falls, shares personal health challenges, and gears up for an exciting weekend…
Frozen Lines and Warm Waters [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:38
In this chilling episode of Terrible at Fishing, host Michael Rafino takes listeners on a frosty adventure as he attempts warm water fishing in subzero temperatures at Bonanza Springs Park. Battling negative 11-degree we…
Snow and Ice week! Ice fishing tricks [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:36
Join fishing expert Michael Rafino on Terrible at Fishing as he dives into the challenges and joys of ice fishing in the midst of heavy snowfall. This episode covers everything from essential ice fishing gear—like flashe…