In this compelling episode of Tennessee WildCast, host Jason Harmon and co‑host Mime Barnes take viewers deep into the heart of Catoosa Ridge Wildlife Management Area for an inside look at the training, dedication, and grit behind Tennessee’s Game Wardens. Joined by Lieutenant Colonel Matt Majors and Major Brandon Selvog, the conversation opens with a candid discussion on boating safety and BUI refresher training before expanding into the wide-ranging skill sets that make TWRA wardens some of the most versatile law enforcement professionals in the state.

From patrol boats to backcountry trails, dive teams to honor guards, evidence recovery to search‑and‑rescue, the episode highlights just how expansive and demanding the role truly is. Brandon shares his unique background—once a “reformed poacher”—and how past mistakes now sharpen his instincts to protect Tennessee’s fish and wildlife resources with fairness and understanding. The wardens speak openly about continuous training, mental and physical resilience, evolving technology, and the unseen responsibilities like delivering death notifications, responding to critical incidents, and partnering with local agencies.

Their stories illuminate a profession defined by service, humility, and passion for Tennessee’s outdoors. Whether investigating boating collisions, tracking lost hunters, navigating tight waterways, or honoring fallen colleagues, these wardens exemplify professionalism in every aspect of their work. This episode reminds viewers that behind every safe waterway, every protected species, and every rescued citizen stands a well‑trained, deeply committed team of game wardens who love the job—and the people they serve.

Tune in, learn something new, and rediscover why Tennessee’s outdoor heritage is worth protecting.

Step back into the Smokies with this week’s episode of Tennessee WildCast as host Jason Harmon and Matt Cameron bring you a conversation all about trout fishing in the mountains of East Tennessee. Broadcasting from Bass Pro Shops, the crew welcomes special guest Wes Farragut of Smoky Mountain Guides—a lifelong Sevier County local who has spent decades exploring, fishing, and guiding in these legendary freestone streams.This episode is packed with stories from the riverbank, from childhood days tromping barefoot through the waters of Sevierville to guiding guests from around the world. Wes shares an incredible look at wild trout in the Great Smoky Mountains, the history behind rainbow, brook, and brown trout, and the unique challenges that make fishing in this temperate rainforest both humbling and unforgettable.Listeners will hear about navigating tight mountain streams, mastering the roll cast, creating custom flies, and understanding how rainfall, elevation, and water temperature shape every day on the water. You’ll also enjoy a few laughs—from “Appalachian versus Appalachian” pronunciation debates to tales of surprise wildlife encounters and even some beginner fly‑fishing confessions from Jason and Matt.Whether you’re a seasoned angler, a curious beginner, or someone who dreams about cool mountain water and the thrill of a wild trout rising, this episode will reel you in. Join us for an adventure full of knowledge, humor, and the natural beauty that makes Tennessee unforgettable. Tune in now!

This week on Tennessee WildCast, we’re coming to you from the Bass Pro Shops in Sevierville for an episode packed with East Tennessee fishing insight, hometown pride, and some incredible stories from the waters of Jefferson County. Host Jason Harmon and co‑host Matt Cameron welcome special guests Lee Rose Koza and Skylar Hamilton from Jefferson County Tourism—two lifelong anglers who turned their passion for fishing into full-time careers.

Lee Rose shares her journey from growing up in her family’s bait and tackle shop to competing in high school and college tournaments, eventually landing her role in tourism and building a successful online presence as an angling influencer. Skylar talks about his path from southwest Virginia to the Bassmaster Elite Series, guiding on Douglas and Cherokee Lakes, and stepping into operations with Jefferson County Tourism.

Together, they dive deep into what makes Jefferson County a top-tier destination for anglers—massive numbers of bass, diverse species, year-round action, and growing opportunities like the Mossy Creek urban trout project. They also discuss fishery improvements on Douglas Lake, the Bill Dance Signature Lakes initiative, and why both Douglas and Cherokee attract anglers from around the world.

From 100‑fish days on Douglas to crappie booms, walleye runs, and new access projects that bring families to the water, this episode highlights just how special this corner of Tennessee really is.

Tune in, learn something new, and start planning your own fishing adventure in Jefferson County!