Spring Waters & Secret Spots: What the Biologist Said

Spring Waters & Secret Spots: What the Biologist Said

Author: Host: Michael Ruffino ; Producer: Michael Wood April 12, 2025 Duration: 31:41

Join your favorite “expert at being terrible,” Michael Ruffino, for a jam-packed episode of Terrible at Fishing! This week, Michael shares insights straight from a recent fly-fishing club meeting featuring ODFW biologist Bill Tenniswood. From thawing lakes like Fish Lake and Lake of the Woods to hot crappie spots like Gerber and Willow Valley, Michael covers the best early-season locations for bass, trout, and panfish.

He dives into the effects of drought recovery, the return of fish to eastern Oregon reservoirs, and some fascinating fish-stocking updates—including shocking methods used during dam removals. Get the scoop on bass spawning in Bonanza, fly patterns that work, and even a trout that ate a rat (yep, a whole vole).

Later, Michael breaks down what’s happening on the Klamath River post-dam removal, where salmon are returning, and what’s to come as fish ladders and water flows improve. It's an adventure through creeks, lakes, rivers—and plenty of fish tales.

Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting to get the bug, this episode is packed with info, humor, and encouragement to get outside and cast a line. Tight lines and remember: it’s okay to be Terrible at Fishing!

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 Trophy Fishing Secrets [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:58
This week on Terrible at Fishing on Gold Country Radio, host and fishing expert Michael Raffino declares fishing season officially open! With lakes thawed and stocked, Michael shares his top-secret strategy for landing m…
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…
Spring Fever and Fishing Rods: Gearing Up for Open Water [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:34
In this episode of Terrible at Fishing, host and self-proclaimed "not-so-pro" angler Michael Raffino helps listeners shake off the winter blues and get ready for spring fishing. With the ice melting and trout season just…
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]

Duration: 30:31
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…