In this powerful episode, we sit down with Les Standstipher, fresh off his inspiring win on the Crappie Masters National Trail. Les opens up about the faith that steadies him, the work ethic that drives him, and the long road of discipline, setbacks, and perseverance that led to his breakthrough moment on the national stage.
From early mornings on the water to the quiet moments when doubt creeps in, Les shares how he stayed grounded, stayed hungry, and stayed faithful. His story is more than a tournament recap — it’s a testimony of resilience, humility, and trusting God’s timing.
Whether you’re a competitive angler, a weekend fisherman, or someone who needs a reminder that hard work and faith still matter, this conversation will challenge you, encourage you, and fire you up for whatever waters you’re navigating.
This is the story behind the win — and the walk that made it possible.

On this episode of the Black Speck Fishing Podcast, JD sits down with Craig Robertson — a traveling tournament angler whose last few weeks have been nothing short of an adventure. From equipment failures on Grenada, to a lifesaving assist at the boat ramp, to a Buc-ee’s pit stop on the way to Kentucky, Craig’s journey is packed with stories that every crappie angler can relate to.
Craig breaks down what really happened with his crappie brakes at the Crappie Masters on Grenada, how PTG Outdoors came through in the clutch, and what he learned from fishing one of the most challenging lakes in the country. Then we follow him to Kentucky’s Cumberland Lake for the National Crappie League tournament — and yes, we get his honest review of Buc-ee’s.
But Craig’s story isn’t just about tournaments. It’s about heart.
He shares his passion for the HOI Crappie Trail, his insights on local lakes like Shelbyville, Banner Marsh, Decatur, Clinton, and Rend, and why he’s committed to supporting youth anglers through the CICC trail. His dedication to the next generation shines through every word.
This episode is full of laughs, lessons, and the kind of real‑life fishing moments that remind us why we love this sport. Craig’s willingness to travel, compete, and invest in young anglers makes his story one worth hearing.

Craig “The Crappie Cowboy” Nichols joins the show for a wide‑open conversation that spans two worlds most people never connect—bull riding and competitive crappie fishing. Craig shares what life was really like in the rodeo arena, how the toughness and discipline he learned there shaped his journey on the water, and the path that led him to becoming a national champion crappie angler. We dive into his upcoming run at Crappie Fest on Lake Fork, the techniques and gear he trusts when the stakes are high, and why innovations like crappie brakes are changing the way serious anglers control their boats. It’s a story of grit, transition, and mastery from one of the sport’s most respected voices.