120 Outdoors: Recent Episodes
Chris DePaola & Don Clowes
One Twenty Outdoors focuses on hunting and fishing opportunities available within 120 miles of your residence. We promote this way of life creating a fishing and hunting legacy, through a monthly Podcast.
Chris and Don interview fly fishing expert John Diez. John talks about how he got started on his fly fishing journey. He shares thoughts on how to get started in fly fishing. We discuss everything from buying your first fly rod to simple fly patterns. Beginners and veteran fly fishing enthusiasts will love this podcast.
Chris and Don interview Muskie Angler, Kevin Goldberg. Kevin discusses how to find and catch Muskie during the early summer period. He talks about the importance of focusing on forage. We get into trolling, casting and how/when to use for effective outcomes. This discussion includes bait selection for certain situations on the lake. If you like to fish for Muskie this podcast is for you.
Chris and Don interview Stephanie Uber, Natural Resources Officer with the Division of Parks and Watercraft. They discuss boater safety courses, insurance and special safety requirements for the Great Lakes. Stephanie talks about kayak registration and safety. Also she reviews boater safety at night and shares some crazy boater stories. Remember, May is National Water Safety Month.
Chris and Don interview ODNR Fisheries Management Supervisor, Curt Wagner on Steelhead being stocked in the Cuyahoga River. Curt gives us a brief history on The River That Caught Fire. He also talks about all the partners that worked hard to help clean the Cuyahoga. We discuss the importance of the Steelhead program in Ohio and the effects on the local economy. The future looks bright for the Cuyahoga and all anglers statewide. If you’d love to hear about a true environmental success story this podcast is for you.
Chris and Don interview Hans Mann the Owner Operator of Buffalo Harbor Outfitters. Hans shares secrets on how you can catch Great Lakes Smallmouth. He talks about his rigs and specific rod setups. Hans offers insight into why he believes the Smallmouth fishing is so good on the Great Lakes. If you enjoy fishing this podcast is for you.
Chris and Don interview ODNR Forest Gamebird Specialist, Mark Wiley. Mark gives us an update on the current Hen Turkey study in Ohio. He shares some interesting finds in year one. The ODNR will be banding another 50 hens in 2024 to expand the study statewide. Also, Mark discusses the overall health of the Wild Turkey population in Ohio and the outlook for this spring season. If you are interested in Wild Turkey this podcast is for you.
Don and Chris interview Crawford County Watershed Specialist, Brian Pilarcik. Brian talks about how Conservation Districts were legislated by the Federal Government. Their origins rooted in the effects of the Dust Bowl. Also, Brian shares what Conservation Districts’ roles are in the communities they serve. If you are interested in Conservation this podcast is for you.
Chris and Don interview Walleye Pro Angler, Sammy Cappelli. Sammy talks about spring tactics on inland lakes. Everything from walleye location near spawning sites to main lake structure was discussed. Also, Sammy talks about his favorite setups for spinning and trolling techniques. If you love chasing walleye this podcast is worth a listen.
Don and Chris interview Dave Riddell, Operations Manager for OPN Seed Company. Dave shares the many benefits of growing native plants. He discusses some of the challenges that may be faced when planting natives. If you are interested in native plants to benefit wildlife and conservation this podcast is for you.
Chris and Don interview Ohio River angler, Rick Heubel. Rick talks about all the fishing opportunities available on the Ohio River. Anglers can anticipate catching a mixed bag from walleye to catfish. He reviews license requirements by state and the bag limits. If you are interested in fishing the Ohio River this Podcast will be of interest.
Don talks about how unique the weather is in our 120.Heavy lake effect snow, rain, cloud cover and winds are all influenced by our close proximity to Lake Erie. He discusses our Great Lake and its effects on our weather and environment.
Chris and Don interview well known Steelhead Angler, John Breedlove. John shares a few secrets on catching steelhead during the winter. He talks about his recent results and how the crazy weather has affected fish movement. Also we get into his setup and techniques used to boat more fish. If you are interested in winter steelhead this podcast is for you.
Chris and Don interview Curt Yoder from Whitetail Heritage of Ohio. Curt talks about how his organization supports deer management and conservation efforts statewide. Also he explains their affiliation with first time hunters and hunters with disabilities. Kurt is very proud of Whitetail Heritage of Ohio’s annual banquet that helps support all their activities. If you are interested in deer and deer hunting you will enjoy this podcast!
Chris and Don interview Steelhead angler, Jim Morrison. Jim discusses the often overlooked and underutilized Steelhead opportunity. Jim likes to focus his attention on the break walls and piers . Many of the Great Lake streams have a pier or break wall. He explains how to be successful chasing steelhead out front! If you love chasing steelhead you will enjoy this podcast.
Don and Chris interview Jerry Zona the Recycling Soild Waste Director for Mercer and Lawrence County. He is also the Executive Director for the Tri-County Cleanways. Jerry talks about how recycling = conservation, less landfills, less mining and energy savings. He explains what should be recycled and what shouldn’t. Very informative podcast, we know you will enjoy.
Chris and Don interview Tony Miller from the Ohio Bow Hunters Association. Tony talks about Crossbows and Crossbow hunting. We discuss everything from recommendations of what Crossbow to purchase to what broadhead works best. This show should answer many of your Crossbow questions.
Chris and Don interview Tony Sangialosi from Drawn Archery. We talk about everything you ever wanted to know about Bow Strings. Tony shares how he got into the business of custom Bow Strings. Our in depth conversation ranges from how often to change your strings to the benefits of custom Strings. Also, we discuss the misconceptions bow hunters have about string maintenance.
Our guest on today's Podcast is Buckeye Bow Hunter, Josh Grund. Josh gives us an update on his Kentucky Velvet Hunt and how his new saddle worked for him. We discuss several topics like when you should make a mock scrape, the location, type of branch, rope and vine. Josh shares his opinion on using scent and a camera to monitor activity.
Don shares his findings on the relationship between the Spotted Lanternfly and the Tree Of Heaven. He discusses the history and how to identify this tree, which is the host for the Spotted Lanternfly. Don suggests different ways to eradicate both the tree and this harmful insect.
Chris and Don interview Mike Sperry and Andy Ohl about the Chautauqua Lake fish habitat project. They discuss why the project was necessary and the process required for permits. Both Mike and Andy are members of Muskie Inc Chapter 69. The chapter was involved in several fund raising programs to help pay for permits and materials for the fish cribs. Also, the significant weed issues were discussed and how complicated the entire lake health has become.
Chris and Don interview Kayak Tournament Angler, Dustin Hoy. Dustin is the owner/operator of Raccoon Creek Outfitters in Albany, Ohio. In his spare time, he fishes tournaments from his kayak. They discuss what to look for when purchasing a fishing kayak. Brand, size and style. Also, Dustin shares how to set up a kayak. Everything from rod holders to tools & electronics.
Chris and Don discuss Senate Bill 1239, No Child Left Inside Act. It is a bipartisan bill that would help bring locally developed environmental programs to schools nationwide.
Don shares his findings on the lost Lake Erie Blue Pike. In the 1950's the Blue Pike was the most common fish species in Lake Erie. A decade later the Blue Pike disappeared never to be found again. Don talks about what happened that led to their demise. Also, he found some interesting information on DNA testing and the relationship to our current Walleye population.
Chris and Don discuss the controversial issue of Forward Facing Sonar. They talk about the positive and the potential negative aspects of this new technology. It’s effects on the fish, fishermen and tournaments.
Don discusses how spring is a great time of year to identify invasive plants. Multiflora Rose and the Japanese Knotweed are a few of the most common in our area. Also, he talks about how many of the invasive plants have taken over the landscapes in our metro parks. Whenever possible try to plant native vegetation in your landscape.
Chris and Don interview Northeast Ohio Angler, Jim Morrison. Jim has a knack for catching big fish out of small water close to home. He shares his insight on what to look for when searching for small water that may hold big fish. Also, Jim talks about some of the equipment needed for a successful day. He shared a few funny stories that you will enjoy.
Don discusses Earth Day Cleanup tips. He offers suggestions on the tools needed to make your day successful. As Don mentioned, most state parks, metro parks or sportsmen groups have cleanup activities planned. Check Social Media or the Local News to get involved.
Turkey is the focus on this month’s podcast. Chris and Don interview Josh Grund from Buckeye Bowhunter. They review the ODNR Turkey research project started this year. Josh educates us on several different types of turkey calls. Also, he talks about how he uses decoys and offers some interesting tips. The discussion includes types of guns and different chokes available.
Don discusses the important role oak trees have in our ecosystem and everyday lives. Many don’t know, the Oak is our national tree and can be found from coast to coast.
Chris and Don interview Steelhead Angler and Cleveland Metro Park Biologist, Mike Durkalec. Mike talks about the history of the Ohio steelhead program and the different strains of fish currently in our streams. He shares his thoughts on the importance of flow rates and fish location. Also, Mike gives his thoughts on the health of the program and the future of Lake Erie steelhead.
Don shares the importance of the Quaking Aspen in a forest management plan. This tree can be found throughout our 120 and is vital to several different species of wildlife.
Don gives an update on the Recovering America's Wildlife Act. Chris shares the findings on Doe/Fawn study completed by Erich Long from the Dear Hunter Project. In this study, the prime rut dates and a few surprises were revealed. Also, Chris and Don interview Jim Inbody from the Northeast Ohio Chapter of American Woodcock Society about projects completed and activities planned for 2023.
Don and Chris talk about the history of the American Chestnut tree and what happened to these valuable trees. The restoration efforts have ties to our 120 that you may find very interesting.
Chris and Don interview Dave Bell from Bell Deer Tracking Service. Dave talks about how he got started in the deer recovery business. He discusses the reason he picked Wren, a Bavarian mountain blood hound as his partner. Also, he offers some tips on what to do and not do if you can’t find your deer. He shares some amazing stories and we think you will really enjoy this show.
Chris and Don interview Buckeye Bowhunter, Josh Grund. Josh has a YouTube channel called Buckeye Bowhunter. They discuss everything from the rut to using calls and the importance of using milkweed for scent detection. This is a very informative podcast for the novice and veteran alike.
Chris and Don interview Dr. John Coluccy, Ducks Unlimited Director of Conservation Planning Great Lakes/ Atlantic Region. They discuss overall health of the Great Lakes waterfowl population. Also, Dr. John talks about how the drought in the upper Midwest has effected the duck breading season. He shares details on the new tracking study being done in the northeast. Listen to the podcast for more details.
Chris and Don interview Dave Kohler a Program Administrator with the Ohio Division of Wildlife. Dave discusses the new Ohio Landowner Hunter Partnership program started in 2021. The goal of the program is to have more hunter access in strategic parts of the state. As of September 19,000 acres are enrolled and more are in the planning stages. A survey conducted after the 2021 season showed favorable results and positive feedback from Landowners and Hunters alike. Listen to find out how you can take part in this new program.
Chris and Don interview Chris Pappas, avid deer hunter on the use of the onX Hunt app. Chris explains why he stopped using his handheld GPS and started using the onX Hunt app. He reviews some basic information from purchasing the onX maps to tracking your trails. Also, he discusses off loading maps and shares some interesting “Best Practices” he uses while out in the field.
Chris and Don interview Don Rank the Pennsylvania Chairman for Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BHA). They discuss the current funding sources for Wildlife (Pittman-Robertson Act) and Sport Fish (Dingell-Johnson Act). Don talks about a new proposal called RAWA Recovering America's Wildlife Act and the importance the act will have for all wildlife agencies. In Ohio it would be an additional 18 million for the ODNR. RAWA passed the House and is currently waiting for approval in the Senate.
Chris and Don interview Jennifer Grieser, Director of Natural Resources Cleveland Metro Parks. Also, she is the Chair for the Cuyahoga River Area of Concern Advisory Committee. Their other guest is Mike Durkalec, Aquatic Biologist Cleveland Metro Parks. Jen and Mike review the early history, the industrial phase, current success and the future of the Cuyahoga River.
Chris and Don interview Catfish Tournament Angler, Mark Dietrich. They discuss how popular catfish angling has become locally and across the country. Mark talks about some of his concerns the catfishing world is facing. From over harvest to pay lake tournaments. Also, he shares some of his secrets on finding and catching some of these catfish giants.
Chris and Don interview Stephanie Uber, a Natural Resource Officer with the Division of Parks & Watercraft. They discuss boater safety in detail. From boater safety courses to cold water boating. Stephanie talks about age requirements for operating watercraft. She also reviews boating safety at night and kill switch laws. Remember, May is boater safety month.
Chris and Don interview, Curt Wagner from Ohio Division of Wildlife where he is the District 3 Fishery Management Supervisor. Our other guest is Mark Warmen. He is the Aquatic Invasive Species Project Coordinator for the Cleveland Metro Parks & Ohio Department Of Natural Resources. They discuss the history and life cycle of hydrilla and how it effects our lakes. They review the current treatment and the funding process. Curt shares the changes the ODNR implemented because of the hydrilla and talks about what we can do to slow the spread. Hydrilla story @2:00. Hydrilla life cycle @7:00. Hydrilla effects on fishing @9:30. Treatment of hydrilla @18:46. Are fish and game safe to eat? @24:08. Current treatment plans for Pymatuning & Mosquito Lakes @28:15. The cost of treatment @33:25. Changes in fish management @43:18. How can we stop the spread @48:07.
Chris and Don interview Brian Pilarcik from the Crawford County Conservation District. Brian is a Watershed Specialist focusing on invasive aquatic plants. We discuss what is an aquatic invasive plant and how it affects water bodies. Brian reviews the process of identifying and the complexities of treating the invasive plants. Also, he shares some of the issues they are dealing with on Pymatuning Lake .
Chris and Don interview ODNR Forest Gamebird Specialist, Mark Wiley. They discuss the current situation with the Turkey population in Ohio. Mark shares the reasoning behind the new Turkey regulations taking affect this year and the outlook for the future. He also talks about the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) statewide effort on improving wild turkey habitat in Ohio.
Chris and Don interview Dave Riddell from Ohio Prairie Nursery (OPN) on the importance of Native Grass. They discuss the history of prairie grasses in Ohio and what led to their demise. Dave talks about the difference between warm and cool season grasses. He shares some secrets on how to successfully plant warm season grasses on your property. He explains alternative methods for maximizing growth in difficult settings. Don's rant this month is about cardboard!!!
Chris and Don interview James Inbody from the American Woodcock Society. James is the President of the North Ohio Chapter. We discuss the unique characteristics of the American Woodcock and the habitat they need to thrive. James shared some of the habitat projects his chapter has completed and their future plans.
Chris and Don interview Mike Kingsley the owner and operator of Evergreen Outfitters on Chautauqua Lake, New York. He is an ACA certified Level 4 coastal kayak instructor & Level 2 Stand Up Paddle board instructor. We discuss all the factors you should consider when purchasing a kayak. From the size and type of kayak to being safe on the water.
Chris interviews retired ODNR Fish Hatchery Program Administrator, Kevin Kayle. Kevin was the “Gate Keeper” for Ohio’s steelhead program. He talks about the history of Ohio's famed Steelhead program and what the future holds. We discuss the stocking program and how all the Great Lake States and the Providence of Ontario share best business practices to improve fishing.
Chris and Don interview Matthew Smith, Assistant Regional Scenic River Manager for ODNR. Matthew discusses why the Scenic River Program was created in Ohio. He explains the process of how a waterway can become a Scenic and Wild River. Also, he shared some interesting information on the status of the program.
Chris and Don interview Award Winning Outdoor Writer, Andrew Pegman. They review Andrew’s new book titled, "Outdoor Adventures of Northeast Ohio". Andrew shares interesting tidbits about some of the anglers he has interviewed over the years. Also, they discuss the future of outdoor communication mediums.
We are currently working with Eric Long from Drumming Log Wildlife Management. Eric developed a plan for the property focusing on Habitat Improvement. On this podcast Chris and Don review the progress being made and discuss future plans. Topics include, timber stand improvement, native vegetation and pond management.
Chris and Don interview Colton Masters from the Mahoning County Board of Health. Colton discusses why we are seeing a Tick population explosion and offers some helpful tips to keep you and your family well. He explains the life cycle of a tick and debunks a few myths. Don’s rant this month focuses on recycling and trash.
Chris and Don interview Outdoor Photographer, Josh Ketry. Josh shares some tips and time savers for taking better outdoor photos with your cell phone. Also, we have a new segment on our podcast called the “rant” . On this episode Don’s rant is about CSO’s and infrastructure.
Chris and Don interview Mark Dilley, Chief Scientist with MAD Scientist Associates, an Environmental Consulting Company. Also Mark is the President of the Ohio Wetlands Association (OWA). Mark discusses the importance of wetlands and some of the opportunities we have moving forward. He talks about our history and some recent success stories you may find interesting.
The H2Ohio program is a game changer for Great Lakes conservation. To gain a better understanding of the H2Ohio Program Chris and Don interview Joy Mulinex, Lake Erie Commission Director Office of the Governor. Clark Hutson, Ohio Department of Agriculture, H2Ohio Western Basin Coordinator and Eric Saas from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, H2Ohio program manager.
Chris and Don interview Outdoor writer Jack Wollitz about his new book "The Common Angler". Jack explains the “why” behind the fact that so many of us are passionate about fishing. He shares the connection we have with water and the fish that depend on it. Jack talks about his fishing friendships, relationships, and the common and uncommon experiences he had over the years.
Chris and Don interview Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA), Pennsylvania Chapter Chairman, Nate Fronk. Nate shares with us how BHA is the voice for our public lands, waters and wildlife. He discusses how important it is for BHA to be involved with the Sportsmen Policy Group in Pennsylvania. He also highlights recent successes and some of the threats to our public land.
Chris and Don interview Whitetail Deer Shed Hunter, Joe Shead. Joe is considered one of North America’s experts on finding Whitetail deer antlers. He has authored the book, "A guide to finding Whitetail deer antlers". He shares tips and a few secrets on helping you become more successful on your shed hunts.
Chris and Don interview Dave Riddell from Ohio Prairie Nursery (OPN). Dave discusses the importance of planting and maintaining native grasses and forbes. He also shares the benefits of a healthy prairie for pollinators, birds & wildlife. He offers suggestions on how the average homeowner can help restore our prairies.
Chris and Don discuss the effects 2020 had on the Outdoors, both positive and negative. They also share some ideas on getting out and enjoying the Outdoors during the winter months.
Chris and Don interview Muzzleloader expert, Tom Oakes. Tom works at the Log Cabin Shop in Lodi, Ohio where he is a gunsmith. Tom will discuss options on purchasing your first Muzzleloader and share strategies to make you more successful this season.
Chris and Don share their Christmas gift list for the outdoor enthusiast. The list consists of useful items for both the hunter or fisherman.
Chris and Don interview wild game cooking enthusiast, Scott Denamen. Scott is a Wildlife officer with the (ODNR) Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Over the past decade he has been cooking and sharing his wild game creations. He will share tips on how to prepare your next wild game meal.
Chris DePaola and Don Clowes interview Bow Hunter Kevin Gallagher. Kevin talks about the importance of safety in the field and offers suggestions on how to be more successful this season.
Chris and Don interview Angler, John Breedlove on his special technique for catching Lake Erie Steelhead. John also talks about dealing with Covid-19 and is thankful to be able to fish again.
Our special guest on episode #2 is Angler, Rena Goldberg. Rena will discuss how she became interested in fishing. She talks about her “bucket list” and offers suggestions on how women can get involved in the outdoors.
Chris DePaola and Don Clowes will be discussing the importance of Women in the outdoors with Special guests Andrew Burt, Licensing Coordinator from the ODNR Divison of Wildlife and Bow Hunter, Jayne Gallagher.
Our guest on today's Podcast is Hans Mann also known has "Hans The Carver". Hans will discuss how he is living a life long dream of owning his own business. He talks in detail about how he got started in carving and his love for painting. He also gives a breakdown of the great fishing opportunities in his 120.
Chris DePaola and Don Clowes discuss food plots with expert Teddy Klark. Teddy is an avid outdoorsman and part owner of Northridge Wildlife Forage. Teddy will share some tips and time savers to help you be more successful with your plots.
In this episode Chris and Don discuss Lake Erie and it's diverse fishery. Special guests include Ann Marie Gorman a Biologist with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources stationed in Fairport Harbor Ohio. Ann Marie will review the fishing outlook for 2020 and talk about the overall health of Lake Erie. Our other guest is Travis Hartman. Travis is the Lake Erie Project Manager for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources stationed in Sandusky. Travis is a competitive angler and has spent many years fishing Lake Erie. Travis will discuss, bag limits and the new three rod rule in Ohio. Also he will share some of his insight on fishing for walleye on Lake Erie.
Guide Mike Sperry talks about Chautauqua Lake, New York and the great spring Walleye fishing. He discusses tactics to help you catch more Walleye this spring. He also talks about the great Walleye fishing on Lake Erie and some of the special tactics locals use to consistently catch fish.
Special guests on this episode include Mark Wiley of Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Mark is a Forest Gamebird Biologist for the State of Ohio. He will discuss the health of Ohio's Turkey population offer some insight on poult recruitment and share hunting opportunities. Our other guest is outdoorsman Keith Hastings. Keith specializes in chasing gobblers on public land. He will share some turkey hunting strategies that the newbies and seasoned vets will find helpful.
Special guests on this episode include Curtis Wagner of Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Curt is the Fisheries Management Supervisor for district 3 in Ohio. He will share information regarding how the ODNR website can be a useful tool while practicing social distancing. Our other guest is Outdoorsman Chris Pappas. Chris is an avid bow hunter, turkey hunter, fisherman and trapper. Chris will share some of the unique outdoor activities he is doing with his family.
Chris and Don discuss what is behind the unique name and concept of 120 Outdoors. They also share personal stories and interesting facts about how they got started in the outdoors.