Bass Cast Radio

Welcome back to Before the 1st Cast Podcast! This week, Trever sits down with Marty Hughes — aka KayakJak — for one of the most loaded episodes of 2026. First, we dive into the 2026 Fishing Challenge: Is catching 2026 bass in a year actually possible? Marty breaks down how this challenge came to fruition, the evolution of the challenge, and how anyone can sign up to join the challenge. Then we go deep on the Neko rig — one of the most effective finesse techniques in bass fishing. From Neko rig setup to hook size, nail weights, and retrieve, we cover everything you need to know to start catching bass from your bass boat, kayak, or off the bank. Marty also discusses the unique nail weights that he custom makes. Marty's Custom Weights - https://kayakjak.com/ Join KayakJak's Fishing for 2026 Challenge - https://tourneyx.com/leaderboard/standings/kayakjaks-fishing-for-2026 Whether you fish from a bass boat, kayak or the bank, this episode is packed with tips you can use before your next cast. New episodes every week — subscribe and join the Before the 1st Cast community! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

In this episode of Before the 1st Cast, we're breaking down everything a beginner needs to start catching bass without overcomplicating it. We cover why one dependable rod setup beats a full tackle room, how to pick the right line for any situation, and why a small selection of soft plastics like the HellaMite, Fresh Scorpion, Fresh Beetle, and FreshBaitz Lizards is all you really need to get started. We also walk through how to read shallow cover, fish points the right way, and use color selection without overthinking it. If you've ever felt overwhelmed getting into bass fishing, this episode cuts through the noise and gives you a clear, simple path to catching more fish from day one. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

On this week's episode of Bass Cast Radio, we discuss the upcoming Elite events as well as MLF Redcrest. Then we fall down the Coike rabbit hole & discuss one of the hottest baits of 2026 with Dave Rush, the editor of the "Best on Tour" newsletter. CLICK TO SUBSCRIBE to Best on Tour Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

"PACKED Weekend in Pro Bass Fishing: Bassmaster Elite, MLF Redcrest & More" A packed weekend in professional bass fishing is HERE — and on Before the 1st Cast, we're breaking down everything you need to watch. Bassmaster Elite Series competitors are set to take on the Arkansas River. The Bassmaster Kayak Series heads to Lake Caddo. Major League Fishing's Redcrest is about to go down at Table Rock Lake. AND we're giving you an early look at the Bassmaster Tuesday Night Live team event dropping April 21st — you won't want to miss this one. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

n this episode of Before the 1st Cast, we're breaking down exactly how to target bigger bass during the spawn and turn curious fish into committed bites. We cover why keeping your presentation simple wins more fish, when to upsize your bait for larger females, how to read a fish's body language around the bed, and why color choice matters just as much for the angler as it does for the fish. We also get into finesse setups that keep your bait locked in the strike zone longer, how to handle big bass around heavy cover, and when to downsize to a subtle follow-up presentation on pressured fish. With FreshBaitz soft plastics like the Fresh Scorpion, HellaMite, Fresh Beetle, and FreshBaitz Lizards in your arsenal, you'll be ready for every stage of the spawn. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

On the latest episode, the team discusses spring bass fishing as well as breaks down current events. We welcome the boys back, Bass Geek & Thomas Arens. So get your note pads out & ready to learn. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

Pake South’s HISTORIC Streak & The "Sniper Rod" BASS Fishing Trick! In this episode of Before the 1st Cast, we analyze the hottest topics dominating the tournament bass fishing world! First, we look ahead to the Major League Fishing (MLF) Toyota Series tournament kicking off on the legendary Kentucky Lake. Next, we break down one of the most incredible runs in recent memory: Pake South’s back-to-back Bassmaster Open victories! From dominating Lake Eufaula, Alabama, by 11 pounds to crushing the field on Sam Rayburn by 15 pounds, the Texas angler is on fire, with a stunning 7 top-10 finishes in just 12 events. Finally, we share a crucial technique to help you maximize your strike window on the water. Stop missing fleeting opportunities! Learn the "Sniper Rod" strategy to quickly target isolated laydowns, busting fish, or lone cruisers. I talk through my confidence rod set-up and discuss what you need to think about to set yours up.Tight lines, clear your decks, and let's go fishing! Be sure to like, subscribe, and drop a comment Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

In this episode of Before the 1st Cast, we break down why staying mobile is one of the most important keys to spring bass fishing success. We cover how to read shallow water visually, follow the forage to find staging fish, and identify high-percentage flats before you ever make a cast. We also dive into how water clarity should dictate your presentation — from faster, more aggressive retrieves in stained water to slow and subtle approaches when bass can see every detail in clear conditions. With FreshBaitz soft plastics like the HellaMite, Fresh Scorpion, Fresh Beetle, and FreshBaitz Lizards dialed in for every situation, you'll have everything you need to cover water efficiently and put more spring bass in the boat. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

On the latest episode of Bass Cast Radio, Trever & Brian discuss what's taking place on Smith Mountain Lake with the insertion of carp and how it will affect our waters & grass that protect our fish with Chad Gilmore & Tim Barr from the SMLK Striper Club. This is an update for a decision that will come out today(April 6th) on how many they are adding to the lake to remove the grass & why we need to save the grass. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

Stop driving past the biggest bass in the lake! While everyone else is rushing the shallows looking for bed fish, the true giants are holding out in the "waiting room." In this episode of Before the 1st Cast, we are breaking down exactly how to decode pre-spawn staging areas to intercept massive females before they move up to spawn. Whether you are pedaling your kayak or running a bass boat, understanding these migration routes, picking the right reaction baits, and trusting your electronics will completely change your spring fishing game. Hit SUBSCRIBE for more bass fishing tips Listen to the Podcast on the Go! Catch full episodes of Before the 1st Cast dropping every Friday on Bass Cast Radio. https://thebasscast.com/bass-cast-radio/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

In this episode of Before the 1st Cast, we're diving deep into why the Texas rig is the most versatile and deadly setup you can throw all spring long. Whether bass are staging, moving shallow, sitting on beds, or recovering post-spawn, we break down exactly how to adjust your weight, bait profile, and presentation speed to stay on fish all season. We cover when to fish fast and cover water, when to slow down and pick cover apart, and how pegged vs. unpegged setups can make all the difference on tough bedding fish. Plus, we show you how FreshBaitz soft plastics like the HellaMite, Fresh Scorpion, Fresh Beetle, and FreshBaitz Lizards are perfectly matched for spring Texas rig fishing. If you want to put more bass in the boat this spring, this episode is a must-watch. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

On this weeks episode Trever & I catch up with Robert Welsh & discuss the baits that made this years classic successful & help some of the best anglers in the business take home a check. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

In this episode, we kick things off with a quick recap of NPL Stop #1 at the Harris Chain of Lakes. Then we look ahead to two massive professional events hitting the water this weekend. First, the Major League Fishing BPT Tour heads to OH Ivie and Lake Brownwood — known for big bass fisheries if you find the right pattern. Next, the Bassmaster Elite Series takes on the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, where anglers must navigate a lock system to reach multiple pools — AND there is NO forward-facing sonar allowed. Old-school bass fishing strategy at its finest! We wrap things up with our Tip of the Week — a kayak tournament breakdown comparing my prefishing day at Possum Kingdom Lake to actual tournament day adjustments. Whether you're a kayak angler, bank fisherman, or boat fisherman, these tournament fishing insights will help you catch more bass. Subscribe for weekly bass fishing tips, kayak fishing content, tournament recaps, and more! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

In this episode of Before the 1st Cast, we're unlocking the secrets to finding and catching big pre-spawn bass before the spawn even begins. We break down how bass migrate from deep winter areas to shallow spawning flats, where they stage along the way, and why not all bass move at the same time. From warming pockets and northern shorelines to bottom transitions and secondary points, we show you exactly where to look and how to work soft plastics like the HellaMite, Fresh Scorpion, Fresh Beetle, and FreshBaitz Lizards through these high-percentage zones. If you want a shot at your biggest bass of the year, this is the episode you can't afford to miss. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

The Tenn River never disappoints, and this Classic was no exception! There was a certain vibe in the air this year, and it was felt by everyone—from the second-youngest angler ever to win the Classic and become a Bass Nation qualifier, to the ever-changing water conditions. This event had it all! We break it all down as the team gives you our thoughts on this year’s epic event Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

Welcome to Before the 1st Cast Podcast! This week we recap the Bassmaster Classic 2026 and the historic moment Dylan Nutt became the first Bass Nation qualifier to win the Classic in 32 years. We also break down Trey McKinney's heartbreaking second-place finish — bridesmaid at two Bassmaster Classics in a row. We preview this weekend's biggest bass fishing tournaments: the NPFL Tour stop one at the Harris Chain and the Major League Fishing Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit on Wheeler Lake. Plus, I share my plans to compete in a kayak bass fishing tournament at Possum Kingdom Lake this weekend. Our bass fishing tip of the week comes from Easton Fothergill, who blends old-school techniques with new-school technology. During the Bassmaster Classic, Easton was throwing a Carolina rig while using forward-facing sonar — proof that combining classic bass fishing tips with modern fish finder technology like Livescope and Garmin can still dominate at the highest level. Whether you're a tournament angler, kayak fisherman, or bank fisherman looking for fishing tips and tricks, this podcast has something for you. Subscribe for more bass fishing content, tournament talk, and honest conversations—all before the first cast. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

In this episode of Before the 1st Cast, we're breaking down everything you need to know about matching your gear to prespawn tactics. From rod power and backbone to line selection and reel speed, the wrong setup can mean the difference between a hookup and a lost fish. We cover suspending presentations, finesse jigs, spinnerbait techniques, and how to adjust your equipment as bass transition from deep structure to shallow cover. Plus, we highlight how FreshBaitz soft plastics like the HellaMite, Fresh Scorpion, Fresh Beetle, and FreshBaitz Lizards are perfectly dialed in for prespawn conditions. Stop leaving fish at boatside — get your gear right before the spawn kicks off! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

The 2026 Bassmaster Classic is in the books & we would like to thank all the anglers who gave us a look into their week. There are so many great memories that we can take away from this event, from the giant bass to seeing the future generation show that they are not going anywhere. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

What an end to day two the tempatures have risen & the water has begun to clean up & the naglers are finding them giant bass. A special thank you to all the anglers that stopped in & gave us a look at there day & moving on for some to the fianl day. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON

Bassmaser Classic day one is in the books & what an event this one has turned out to be so far. Take a list as we got a glimps of day one from some of the best bass anglers. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/bass-cast-radio--1838782/support. Become a Patreon memebet now for less then a pack of worms you can support Bass Cast Radio as well as get each epsiode a day early & commercial free. Just click the link below. PATREON