FAN Outdoors · Billy Hildebrand (KFXN)

Fan Outdoors: Tommy George, John Edstrom, Ginny Nelson

·1 hr 36 min·5 clips

Captain Billy describes battling a 27-inch walleye that circled his boat twice before a spectator applauded his effort.

Captain Billy Hildebrand and co-host Bob St. Pierre host this episode of Fan Outdoors. They are joined by pro angler Tommy George and professional guide John Edstrom. The conversation centers on fishing techniques, recent seasons, and outdoor life. Captain Billy recounts a story of catching a 27-inch walleye on a light-action rod before accidentally breaking the rod on a boat cleat. He ordered a medium-light replacement rod, which he found too stiff, causing him to break his line on a subsequent big fish. Tommy George advocates for using the lightest line possible, claiming four-pound test significantly increases strikes and hookups compared to heavier lines. He notes that many anglers at Fletcher's Bait use six or eight-pound line for walleye, but he believes lighter is better. Billy shares that Minnesota's recent turkey season set a record harvest of 16,880 birds. Zone 507 led the state with 4,683 birds harvested, while firearms were the most common method. Tommy George explains his theory that lighter line allows a fish to hold the bait longer, giving the angler more time to set the hook. He also discusses taking his grandkids fishing and the joy of watching them catch fish regardless of size. John Edstrom reports excellent early summer conditions on Minnesota rivers, with smallmouth bass fishing already strong. He mentions a DNR study by Eric Altena that found river smallmouth can migrate long distances, like from Monticello to St. Cloud. Edstrom explains that smallmouth diets shift from minnows in spring to crayfish in summer, with a strong preference for soft-shell, freshly molted crayfish. He describes a recent guided trip with former Minnesota Viking Ben Leber, who was learning to fly fishing for a segment on Twin Cities Live. Edstrom has also guided notable figures like former kicker Gary Anderson and author John Gierach. He continues to teach monthly fly tying and introductory fly fishing classes at Cabela's. The episode maintains a relaxed, conversational tone between friends who share a passion for the outdoors. It blends personal fishing stories with practical tips and expert insights from seasoned anglers. Listeners who enjoy detailed fishing tactics, gear discussions, and Minnesota outdoor news will appreciate this episode. Those seeking high-adventure narratives or non-fishing topics might find it less engaging.

As heard by us

Relaxed outdoor radio that blends banter with practical river-and-smallmouth talk.

Saturday Morning Fan Outdoors settles into easygoing hunting-and-fishing talk, with Captain Billy Hildebrand and Bob St. Pierre leading the way and John Edstrom adding river-fishing detail.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

For a Saturday-morning lake chat that slides into river smallmouth tactics, press play today.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from FAN Outdoors