Smallmouth Slammers & Soft Bait Secrets

Smallmouth Slammers & Soft Bait Secrets

Author: Host: Michael Ruffino ; Producer: Michael Wood July 26, 2025 Duration: 32:35

Michael Raffino is back on Terrible at Fishing with stories from an epic trip to Lake of the Woods—where he, his buddy, and a recent grad landed over a dozen smallmouth bass using hand-painted baits and precision techniques. Learn how Carr nailed bait retrieval like a pro, and hear how Michael nearly launched himself from the boat thanks to a rogue seat. Then, dive deep into the world of soft baits: what they are, how to match them with jig skirts, and why motion matters more than scent. From skin-hooked swimbaits to the ever-reliable Ned rig, this episode is packed with insight, humor, and hands-on advice. Whether you're fishing in lily pads or clear deep water, Michael’s got you covered.

🪱 Bonus: Discover the power of “dancing bones” and why matching colors isn’t just a fashion tip—it’s a fish-catching game-changer.

Catch all this and more on Terrible at Fishing, your friendly neighborhood fishing show with a heart, a hook, and the occasional possum.

🎧 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…