Buckeye Kayak Fishing Trail

Welcome to the Buckeye Kayak Fishing Trail Podcast, where we dive into the world of Ohio kayak fishing with special guest, "Dude" Chris Vargo. Join us as we sit down with Chris following his impressive 3rd place finish at Mosquito Lake.

In this episode, we explore the secrets behind Chris's successful fishing strategies that led to his remarkable performance. From tackle selection to on-water techniques, he shares valuable insights that will help both seasoned anglers and beginners up their fishing game.

But it's not all intense competition talk. We also delve into the camaraderie and community spirit that surrounds kayak fishing. Discover the joys of hanging out at the campsite, swapping stories, and forging lasting friendships with fellow anglers who share the same passion.

As the season winds down, we take a sneak peek at the upcoming schedule of the Buckeye Kayak Fishing Trail. Chris gives us a glimpse into the thrilling events and challenges that lie ahead, offering a taste of what's to come for kayak fishing enthusiasts.

Tune in to the Buckeye Kayak Fishing Trail Podcast and join us on this exciting journey as we explore the art of kayak fishing through the eyes of "Dude" Chris Vargo. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just dipping your paddle into the world of kayak fishing, this podcast is your go-to resource for inspiration, knowledge, and a whole lot of fun.

Billy and Greg talk about the 3 events down and 3 to go, then we call Matt Davis for Trivia😀

Billy Chambers aka BillyKayaks talks with BKFTs trail stop number 2 Winner Ethan Graham. Ethan talks about some misfortune he had, then a great day and finally how he pulled off the victory in the closing minutes at this crowd favorite East/West Harbors event where 4 anglers had over 90” and half the field of 77 had over 80”.

Now that the 2023 BKFT season has kicked off, it’s time to add to the exclusive Golden Banana Club.

We would’ve never known about this unless his good friend and travel partner Chris Hannegan told us all about it.

Congratulations to Eric Manko for his amazing resilience and determination in the face of a disastrous morning fishing! Despite a malfunctioning fish finder, losing his phone temporarily, and even losing a fishing rod (which he later discovered he had dragged a half mile in the water), Eric managed to finish 8th in the tournament and even cashed a check! Way to go, Eric! Your never-give-up attitude is truly inspiring. #fishing #determination #resilience #persistence"

What the heck is this banana award all about? Keep reading for more explanation😂

We wanted to let you know about the tradition on our BKFT fishing podcast. We decided in 2022 to start awarding a 'Gold Banana Award' to the angler who has the worst luck on the water each week. It's all in good fun, and the award is meant to be silly and light-hearted. We want everyone to know that the winners are in on the joke, and we hope it brings a smile to everyone's face. So if you have a bad day on the water, just remember that you could be the next recipient of the Golden Banana Award! Stay tuned for more updates and keep on fishing!"

BillyKayaks talks with Jeff Little on the BKFT podcast

Jeff represents #torqueedo so the conversation leads inevitably toward that controversial question of motors on yaks. They also talk safety and the most important topic of becoming a better angler - always be learning!

Like us all, Jeff and Billy share stories of the giant bass that got away, the close calls on the water, and discuss why certain rules exist or don't exist?!

Another outstanding interview loaded with information and entertainment for BKFT anglers and enthusiasts alike.

#tourneyx #strictlysailfishing #bkft #strictlysailandkayak #kayakfishing #kayakbassfishing #bassfishing #tournamentfishing

The BKFT podcast sat down with The Creek Crawler Brian Slaton to talk about the BKFT first event a little over a month away!


Billy and Brian teamed up for discussing the YouTube scene and general content creation before delving into talk of big smallies! Excited after a strong first year, Brian shares with us his strategy and why he believes the Nikko Fishing Baits are tied on his lines 90% of the time.

Tune in for a discount code from Creek Crawler for Vance Outdoors, Inc. fishing equipment! 15% off any fishing equipment on the online store.

Billy Kayaks talks with Jason Isaacs about fishing and the 24.25” bass he caught recently.

Billy talks with Quinton about his Kayak from the expo, St Croix rods and more…

Billy and Greg draft baits, we only get 5 each and once selected they’re off the board for the other guy! Frogs, Chatterbaits….Texas rig?!?

In this episode Billy and Greg talk about 2023 National and local trails, our plans for upcoming kayak fishing modifications or upgrades, and a few things we think are overrated for tournament fishing

Christian Hansel talked with Billy after Christian finished fifth Place at BKFT Mosquito Creek Lake in 2022 with a 87.25” bag. 18 anglers had over 80”. President Hansel gives up all the juice.

Billy and Greg talk about last years BKFT in person events and give our thoughts on how we did, then talk about the 2023 BKFT schedule

Great episode with “English” who gives up some juice and then we call down to Raccoon Creek to see if anyone answers for some fishing trivia!

With one of the largest one day bags in BKFT history, Aaron Stallbaum wins the 2022 Portage Lakes tournament. In this episode he talks about the events of the day and exactly how he did it on a day where 5 anglers had over 90”

Billy and Greg have a conversation with Chris Hannegan after he wins the 2022 Raccoon Creek Outfitters event. Hannegan gives up a couple of secrets, this episode is definitely worth listening to! Hope you enjoy!

Billy talks with Jason Lyall after he wins the 2022 Indian Lake event, Jason didn’t hold back explaining how he did this on a day when half the field had 0”

Billy and Greg talk with Dustin Hoy and we also made a random call to 2019 RCO Champion Matt Davis.

Recorded in the parking lot after the weigh in, Joel gives up some juice. We also do a live raffle for the BKFT 10th anniversary where we invite a second angler from every live event. Then you find out who wins the second BKFT Podcast Golden Banana.

Billy and Greg talking about the upcoming tournament.

Billy and Greg talk with the big winner, Reece Stoughton after the BKFT season kick off Cincy Lakes tournament. This was a 2 day tournament. Reece took home over $1,200.00 and 4 trophies,

In this episode we get to know new co-host Greg Shoopman a little better. Greg was on the last episode live from the fishing expo. We also talk about Yak Ohio and encourage anglers to sign up now, lastly we discussed Billy’s recent trip to Florida with Raccoon Creek Outfitters and Greg’s trip to South Carolina where he toured the Z-man factory.

BKFT Live at the Expo with Greg Shoopman and Billy Chambers

One of the “OGs” of BKFT joins the podcast. We talk about all the Ohio local trails, the old days, and some good rule tips headed into 2022.

Billy talks with Dustin Karns and Berndt Knuckles about all things Venom Lures. If you’re attending the Cincinnati or Columbus fishing expo, go check ‘em out. Make sure you get some Venom Lures and get bit!

2021 BKFT Online AOY winner and National kayak bass tournament angler Jason Isaacs.

BKFT talks with our trails 2022 AOY and Classic winner Shawn Skidmore!

In this episode Billy talks with BKFT angler Kyle McAlarney, we talk about everything from BKFT camping to peacock bass in Florida. We even find out what Kyle had for his birthday dinner.

You don’t wanna miss this one with 2021 BKFT Alum Creek winner and 2020 trail series AOY.

Billy talks with Parker about all the lakes or rivers on the upcoming 2022 BKFT schedule

Billy talks about the 2022 BKFT podcast and looks for your feedback.

Winner of the 2021 Tour event #5 (Portage Lakes). Darrell shares so much information! This is one of my favorite interviews of the year.

BKFT with Kurt Smits where we talk about kayak fishing AND the June 10th BKFT event in Cincinnati

BKFT with 1st and 2nd Place Mosquito Creek Lake anglers. Tons of great info and plenty of shenanigan.

2021 spring fling with 77 anglers and Jason caught 104.50” culling 8 fish.

BKFT interviews winners from the Buddy Bass event. Get all the details plus, find out what Everett named his cat and what John would name a new puppy.

Clyde was the winner of the east west harbor event that we had on May 1, 2021. He also caught big fish and has some great stories to share.

Get to know BKFT angler Brock Spencer. Brock won the 2021 Raccoon Creek event.

Matt Davis - BKFT angler and Southeast Ohio angler, Matt won first place three years ago in the raccoon creek event, finished second place last year, and third place 2021. Matt Davis is on the raccoon creek outfitters pro staff and is a member of the Nucanoe pro staff.

On this episode Zach interviews the top five placing anglers in the BKFT month long Spring Fling Event. We find out how these guys won the event fishing against some of Ohios best anglers. The top five winners are Ryan Parker at 1st. Jason Isaacs at 2nd. David Simmons at 3rd, John Proch at 4th and finally David Halas placing 5th.

On this episode of Buckeye Kayak Fishing Zach talks with the top five winners of the Fishermans Central East/West Harbor Event by the Buckeye Kayak Fishing Trail. The winners for this event are Aaron Stallbaum at 1st place. Brian Coyne at 2nd, John Warchol in 3rd, Alex Roberts at 4th place and finally Grant Kempf at 5th! Learn how these guys won top five during this windy event and thanks again for listening!

On this episode Zach and Billy interview David Simmons and John Proch the team winners of the BKFT Multi Species Buddy Slam Event. We learn how they won the event and share a few stoires about kayak fishing. Stay tuned after the interview for information regarding the Fishermans Central East/West Harbors Event.
You can follow John and David on Instagram at @wheresthefishies and @paddlefish23

On this episode Zach interviews Justin Marshall the winner of the Strictly Sail Cincinnati Lakes Event by the BKFT. We discover how Justin won the tournament fishing the muddy waters of Cowan Lake. Stay tuned after the interview for upcoming BKFT tournament dates and a update on the Spring Fling. Thanks again to our event sponsors Strictly Sail and Kayak and Dakota Lithium Batteries!