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
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…