Michael Raffino is back on Terrible at Fishing with stories from an epic trip to Lake of the Woods—where he, his buddy, and a recent grad landed over a dozen smallmouth bass using hand-painted baits and precision techniques. Learn how Carr nailed bait retrieval like a pro, and hear how Michael nearly launched himself from the boat thanks to a rogue seat. Then, dive deep into the world of soft baits: what they are, how to match them with jig skirts, and why motion matters more than scent. From skin-hooked swimbaits to the ever-reliable Ned rig, this episode is packed with insight, humor, and hands-on advice. Whether you're fishing in lily pads or clear deep water, Michael’s got you covered.

🪱 Bonus: Discover the power of “dancing bones” and why matching colors isn’t just a fashion tip—it’s a fish-catching game-changer.

Catch all this and more on Terrible at Fishing, your friendly neighborhood fishing show with a heart, a hook, and the occasional possum.

🎧 Terrible at Fishing — Fridays at 7 PM on Gold Country Radio. Don’t miss it!

Watch Michael Ruffino on his youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@terribleatfishing

Terrible at Fishing with Michael Ruffino (Gold Country Radio, Fridays 7 p.m.) In this episode, Michael dives deep — into the lily pads! Join him as he explores the challenges and rewards of lily pad fishing, revealing why this topwater technique is one of the most thrilling (and tricky) ways to catch big bass.

Michael shares his favorite baits like Toad Thumper frogs, explains why hook-up rates drop with soft bodies, and teaches how to fight your instincts when the surface explodes. He breaks down gear essentials — from heavy rods and baitcasters to the best braided lines — and gives tips for using swim baits weedlessly through thick cover. Plus, hear about top local fishing spots like Lake of the Woods and Dog Lake.

Whether you’re a weekend angler or just love the sound of a splash, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and hands-on advice to up your game. Tight lines! 🎣

Catch past episodes and fishing videos on Michael’s YouTube channel, Terrible at Fishing.

🎧 Terrible at Fishing — Fridays at 7 PM on Gold Country Radio. Don’t miss it!

Watch Michael Ruffino on his youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@terribleatfishing

On this lively Fourth of July weekend episode, Michael Raffino dives into why July and August are prime time for bass fishing, even when he can’t get out on the lake himself. Michael shares his love for topwater fishing, where every strike is a surface-level spectacle! Learn about the best lures for summer bass — from the famously fun-to-say Whopper Plopper, to wake baits, poppers, and his custom-made “Whopper Plopper Popper.”

Michael also gives tips on technique, like the art of the hook set, the importance of keeping the line tight during a fight, and the excitement of lily pad fishing with soft-bodied frogs. Plus, hear a heartwarming story of helping a young angler land his first smallmouth bass.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, this episode is packed with expert advice, funny stories, and Michael’s infectious enthusiasm. Tune in for laughs, learning, and a big dose of fishing passion!

🎧 Terrible at Fishing — Fridays at 7 PM on Gold Country Radio. Don’t miss it!

Watch Michael Ruffino on his youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@terribleatfishing