Why I Don't Keep Flathead Catfish

This video talks about catch and release, and the preservation of the species. I didn't have KZbin videos to teach me about selective harvest, I had to learn the hard way. We all learn from our mistakes and this was a big lesson for me when I was starting out as a fisherman.

[@louskunt8074]

I never understood how people find a beautiful spot to fish, and turn it into a trash dump . this video should be played in elementary schools, keep up the good fight brother

[@stevew6910]

I agree, I get ticked off when I go to the woods or water and find trash, Dove fields are the worst, I pick up bags of trash every time I visit a dove field. I once had a hunting partner, we would go every weekend, He would go his way I would go mine, One day he didnt show up so I decided to hunt his area, I found trash all over from his hunting, I picked it all up and kept it in my hunting vest and a small trash bag, The next week we went out, I got to his truck before him and put all of the trash inside his truck, Yes he was mad, But I told him it was BS we come to a beautiful area and you toss trash on the ground , He got the message

[@kenthodges4432]

My parents always taught my brother, sister, and I, if you pack it in, you pack it out. It is all a matter of respect.

[@BlkwtrPrk]

Preach brother. I've got some nice little ponds about a mile from me. Garbage everywhere. I picked up two full trash bags in a couple hours. Infuriating.

[@MattHawk5.0]

i feel ya, the place i fish is always trashed bc theres a pier near that gets alot of traffic. some days i dont even fish and i dedicate my day to cleaning trash out of the water. sad but yea ppl are shitty. they would rather throw it in the water than wait till they get to a trash can. worse part is theres a trash can on the pier thats empty most the time.

[@richavic4520]

One of the outdoors magazines claims that sportsmen are the first environmentalists. How then, is the generation that grew up with environmental awareness so seemingly unable to interact with the outdoors without leaving a mess?

[@jameswaters9969]

This man is a steward of the earth. May The Heavenly Father Bless you and all yours. So few people understand your wisdom.

[@karlbrown5764]

Lol no Heavenly Father bro. Fake news. He has never showed up for anything ever. He didn’t show up for my son. He’s dead now. 24. Nice fish though. Gut it and fry it up. Tons of those things everywhere

[@6.0hhh]

@@karlbrown5764 Sorry to hear about your Son. But that doesn't mean that God doesn't exist. He certainly does. If he didn't, you wouldn't have any basis to grieve over the loss of your son since his life had no transcendent meaning or purpose. You can find joy, peace, and hope in Jesus, but not in a secular world.

[@bayarea_pyro4159]

Karl Brown I prayed for my aunt and saw her deteriorate right in front of me while her family waited around like a bunch of vultures and she still went. But that’s not to say god doesn’t exist, stop talking out of your ass because you’re hurt. I’m sure your son wouldn’t want you to be a cynical bastard after his untimely departure. Besides how can you be so sure if you ain’t dead yet? Till then don’t say it like a statement.

[@hellcatdave1]

@@karlbrown5764 You misunderstand Gods purpose, man. He's not here to pick and choose who lives and die. Death cometh, for all of us. That's part of our struggle, and our journey.

[@matthewzartman5811]

@@karlbrown5764 Hello Karl. i apologize for the loss of your son. but instead of denying God, how about you give Him a chance? it’ll be worth it, in fact it’ll be the best decision you could ever make! just give Jesus a chance to improve your life, i know He can! you can start by reading Luke or John, just please, give Christ a shot. you’ll see, your life will change for the better! God bless you.

[@Natedoc808]

Definitely don’t fish out your own spot, or any other spot. I don’t always tell people where I fish, but when I do, I lie!! Lol

[@donnybuddz]

Same!

[@someoneelse7439]

I tell people i know about my spots but only on conservation land on my property its different. On conservation land i dont have the right to keep a fishing hole to myself.

[@Baltamore.the.chosen.]

So do I ... Never do I tell anyone of my spots...

[@seandrake7534]

I tell everyone that wants to know In the water

[@toguro5117]

I only share spots from the bank since not everyone has a boat but when im in the boat i will never tell you where i fish.

[@catmeifyoucan4649]

That was absolutely UNBELIEVABLE TIMING..truly awesome! Your story really touched me, thank you for sharing that. If only ALL fisherman were like you. Great video!😎🎣

[@RustyWells2]

This is the most honest outdoor discussion from the heart. I've ever heard on any KZbin channel ever!

[@aureliosaldana5844]

This dude nearly made me cry. He's like a messenger.

[@arkywest2052]

I'd drink a beer with this fella. Good ol' boy.

[@jonreel403]

Arky West Hey Arky just started a Fishing Channel and would love any support hitting my goal, thanks bro.

[@ericsgreyhairwisdom5799]

I would steal his boat and dump that motor in the lake.

[@robertcowan8211]

MY DAD LOVED CAT FISHING. HE,D SIT WITH A POLE IN EACH HAND AND THE STRING OVER HIS FINGER ALL NIGHT LONG. MISS U DAD

[@chrishoward3895]

Robert Cowan mine does that same thing!

[@drinkthekoolaidkids]

I make it 80 thumbs up . 👍

[@playingforghosts]

Miss my dad too. Rip

[@bayarea_pyro4159]

Dual wielding legend

[@greenyonline]

When the end was nearing we went fishing together for the last time. After he was gone I spread his ashes over that same place, a favorite of his. I’m an old man now but I too still miss my dad.

[@jaybluestine3230]

Wow. I can't tell you how much I respect you for your willingness to share your story in such a open and heartfelt way to preserve a place and a species that obviously means so much to you.

[@chrisduffy2737]

Well said. As I write, 78 people turned thumbs down on what this man is saying. Catfish ain't the only creatures with big bony heads.

[@eogg25]

Possibly they thought it took him to long to say what he did. He is doing a good thing.

[@evan2156]

There's always going to be assholes out there. This gentleman is a true conservationist. God bless him.

[@mrexists5400]

they might have left a thumbs down for a reason other then that, they just might not like the length or something like that

[@erich4647]

You could do a video about rescuing puppies and you will get downvotes. I think some of them are actually bots.

[@davidmccracken288]

@@mrexists5400 thats what she said🤔

[@loveishope4406]

Uou have the absolute most informative but relaxing channel. I'm a nightshift RN and when I come home from a stressful code blue/rapid response 12 hour shift, I'm totally spent. Your videos allow me to just sit and before long I'm mentally 100% relaxed and in the boat catching those beautiful creations. I live the fact that you educate catch, photograph, and release. These are absolutely one of Gods most spectacular creation. Thank you for keeping it real. Much love.

[@milkbones69]

I tip my hat to you, sir, because you are a responsible angler and true sportsman. 👍👍

[@randyperfecto7468]

Mr.Flores ur one helluva troop sir, especially with our Latino community upbringing, I too was told to keep and eat all catches. So much respect for u and continued success and happiness. Hua!!

[@jackc.3079]

People do the same thing up here in the north with Walleye and Brook Trout. I wish more people had the sense you do. God bless.

[@carlj5609]

We do the same thing when we hunt deer Some times you have to give that big buck a pass to continue to seed that deer population It's called conservation

[@StSimonMartyr]

If you want to manage numbers and conserve, its the does / females that count...

[@seandrake7534]

I have often wondered why people won’t keep big fish but want to kill the biggest deer

[@Mityob67]

Why would anyone give thumbs down to this vital, sage and unselfish information? Thank you brother...I see your passion and your heart. Well said.

[@betoreyna4293]

You’re a great spokesperson for this beautiful fishery.. keep up the awesome work

[@paula.2422]

Thanks for sharing the awesome fish catch and your heartfelt message. I agree with all your sentiments...great message!

[@gicyu812]

Good for you and the wonderful message you're trying to convey. Respect what is precious.

[@winndixie6361]

This is one of the most powerful fishing stories ever told..bless you brother..I too did the same thing when I was younger..I now throw back the elusive flat head catfish..their becoming harder and harder to get now .again thanks for the story ,your a true fishermen..

[@sinovenatorsamyt4213]

I've made the same mistake, brother. I fished in this beautiful river when I was younger, caught big bass, up to 6 pounders, in a small creek with some minnows. My parents pressured me into keeping fish everytime I went on a trip, and I haven't cause a bass there in years. I still feel guilty about it.

[@lohhjjlohicv6829]

My parents presured me to ceep trout but i never would they would be like why do you go fishing if you dont want to take it

[@rockyperez2828]

​@@lohhjjlohicv6829I'm the same way I catch and release trout when I go fishing on the White Mountain Apache Reservation in northern Az. But I let them go back cause I don't like trout to boney for me. As a young man my dad grilled into all 15 of his boys what u shoot or catch you eat and if you ain't gonna eat it don't shoot or catch it. When I go fishing for cats I only keep those up to 10 lbs everything else goes back into the water

[@michaelangelo8139]

You are to be commended for your “ SPORTSMANSHIP “ . I am with you on your philosophy . Great vid . 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@1Dcorace]

I had a cousin that took me hunting in the '60's. He taught me to pick up trash in the woods and we always did. I'll never forget that.

[@geezaz7398]

me everytime I see a shining and shimmering shattered pcs of glass in the lake/reservoir, I pick it up and put it on a small box so I can dump em in the trash when im done fishing, I even bought a garbage picker and I think my county should reimburse for that jk! lol. cuz I stepped on a pcs of glass when I was a kid while playing in the lake. my feet got swollen and I got hospitalized, so I don't want to be on that situation again especially my kids. there are some irresponsible ppl and they think its cool to break the bottle and just leave it there.

[@robhicks2117]

I leased my property out to some deer hunters last year. I will never do it again! They pissed in plastic soda bottles and just threw them in the ground! They were all over the place. They would pee in the bottles because if they peed on the ground the deer would smell it and not come around but why I couldn't understand why they just left trash on my property and I didn't care why. I just called and told them to never set foot on my property again.

[@scottbaker7532]

Some people ruin it for everyone!

[@daleleavitt]

Rob, sorry to hear your story. Real sportsmen leave the wild in the same or better shape than before they entered.

[@MECX3490]

No good deed goes unpunished unfortunately....

[@daiquansam5919]

I'm a deer hunter and I pee in the woods rite around my stand and I still see and kill deer

[@ibethejustin6534]

Disrespectful

[@michaelkelly8061]

That kind of care should be taken with every wild place for hunting, fishing, hiking, whatever it is you do...... Take care of them so they remain for everyone to enjoy.

[@maxcadey9223]

I keep some of my fish. Love my wild catfish. However, in the case of a lot of these old fish, i always release. Respect for surviving so long

[@colbyjohnson3793]

I gar fish alot and that's the reason I dont keep or kill big gar. Gar grow really slow and get super old

[@adamburdt8794]

@@colbyjohnson3793 first time I caught a gar I was tripped out. They literally look like partly reptile. Kinda freaky too. I'm like, I swim with these bastards? Lake Texoma has a bunch. Can you eat gar? Are they any good? I hear they're bony and some people compare it to Carp

[@SpringIsBACK]

Smoked gar can be pretty good. Some of the flesh is tougher than most fish. OTOH, the bones are much less a problem than with carp, IMO. But, gar are really hard to clean. A top notch aviation cutter or tin snips and very strong hands helps. (I myself am not Thor!) Or, get out a freakin' reciprocating saw with a metal cutting blade...

[@dataquester]

@@adamburdt8794 gar r fun to catch. I've eaten one. It was hard as hell to clean even using metal snips.. I didn't like it as the flesh was really strange. I later found out it is best to grind up the meat and make "gar balls" outta it kinda like hust puppies. I'll stick to crappie.....

[@dr.blumpkin2129]

Yessir

[@earlstubblefield9275]

I believe this video is your best yet,, thank you for being a good stewart to the land and waters and the fisheries .Bless you Chris

[@RideOp74]

Man, I love the way you think, you've got a good heart. I'd catch and release with you any day my friend.

[@victorj8152]

😂😂😂🤦

[@devenbackes81]

@@victorj8152 really!?

[@jearly5859]

I completely agree. Once a local fish population is gone,it might not be replaceable. This is especially true in the southwest.

[@antiquecatfishing7068]

Couldn’t have said it better myself, and I fully agree, cpr, clean up after yourself, respect that the key, respect the water land/landowner, each other, and mostly the fish.

[@askurmom1]

What if you have to drop a #2 on the water? How do you suggest handling that situation? I don't fish often but I was always told over the edge is OK. Is that still the case or has things changed?

[@dannyjett7225]

I agree with you Muddy River. I have fished all my life. Mainly for Largemouth Bass. I joined B.A.S.S. in 1968 and have always released my bigger fish. Some weighing 6 to 9 pounds. I have kept smaller fish to eat when I was younger but now I release all Bass. The upper sought after fish like Large and Smallmouth Bass, Stripers, Trout and other Trophy fish are very delicate to fishing pressure. My wife will not eat Catfish so I return all I catch back to the environment. If I catch a Rainbow Trout or Brown Trout I might keep a small 1 or 2 to make a dinner. But I practice mainly catch andrelease to assure the species is not depleted and over fished. I just hope orher people do the same. If people want to eat more fish then what they should catch are Blue Gill, Crappie and Perch. Those species are more plentiful. But again don't over fish them.

[@billbriscoe9414]

Do your thing, I'll do mine. Don't impede on my Freedom and vise versa.

[@mikedisher30]

Specially the fish ignore the people they don't deserve a guy like you but the wildness does amen bro

[@westjamesjames5919]

Danny Jett no one cares kid. Stop posting to KZbin begging for attention

[@JasonBuis]

A man that's passionate about sport, conservation, and preserving today what our kids will inherit tomorrow. I commend you, fellow angler. I was JUST having this conversation with a friend this morning. Good on you!

[@jonreel403]

Jason Buis Hey just started a Fishing Channel and would love any support to reach my goal😁, thanks..

[@MrWaco63]

I agree with you 100% . I too always wanted to catch the elusive Flathead catfish. I was extremely lucky on my first one , It was a 70+ lb. giant. (bottomed out 2x35lb scales LOL) I cleaned it and ate it and later found out that with their slow growth rate that that fish was probably 70+ years old. I have caught several since then but I don't keep any of them over about 10lbs. I release the others for the breeders they are. Thanks for the informative video and keep it up .

[@BrackishWaterC]

The world record was 120 plus pounds and biologists later determined that it was 23 years old. Nice fish but no way was it 70 plus

[@marklemist6928]

@@BrackishWaterC I caught a 50 lber with a revolutionary war musket ball embedded in its side. It must have been a bazillion years old.

[@JackLeeYoutube]

@@marklemist6928 so cool! more details please!

[@marklemist6928]

@@JackLeeKZbin ask your mom!

[@JackLeeYoutube]

@@marklemist6928 very original XD

[@GunHolsters]

You are a true outdoorsman, and a quality person. I’m happy to have found your channel.

[@julsmiddle8296]

I do not fish but I love this video... This is a good man... Wish there were more like him.

[@mauricecason5369]

Amen Kris you are one of pioneers on KZbin who taught me to respect the fishing hole my area I know how you feel it hurts to see the fishing resources in your area dry up all we can do is become the teachers much respecting you Kris

[@rogerkilby4303]

We need a lot more sportsmen like you !!! Nothing but respect from me, thank you Sir !!! :)

[@JoelAdair]

I don't really care much for fishing, but I did enjoy your story and love nature, so this is for you. *applauds*

[@moralestexasfishing5583]

Much Respect Kris.What a powerful video showing your true love and passion for the Flathead brother👍🐟Excellent video.

[@dmo7815]

And please don't litter.

[@moralestexasfishing5583]

@@dmo7815 what are you talkin about??

[@SlimboJimbo]

Beautiful story, keeping spots quiet can be tough, but people will destroy anything they don’t respect, best of luck to you and “your spot”

[@kerrycarpenter4595]

Mega props to you brother, as a native New Mexican myself, I appreciate what you're doing....

[@josephsayre6973]

When you do the work to become an expert on a species, there comes a responsibility to respect the resource! Hats off for recognizing!

[@samuelnatal3221]

Very interesting, i am 49 years old and use to love to go out in the quiet waters and fish all the time. People don't know what a blessing it is to be able to enjoy that and show it to your children.

[@greenhulk7573]

Our county opened up a great fishing dock with night lights, restroom amenities, fish cleaning tables, and kid swing set. It is hard to see people leave trash, abandoned fish, fish line, tag the place, broken glass block from restroom, stole swings. They've even have left water running at full in fish cleaning table. The county the increased the price of park entry and people complained but it had deterred those things from happening. The increased fees have allowed the county to hire park enforcement to monitor the park. I go fishing there from time to time and pick up after others and it still gets to me when others can't take care of it. I'm with you in preserving what we have and protect our fishing environment.

[@greenhulk7573]

All we can do is try to keep it up by cleaning up after those who don't care. I took it upon myself to install PVC rod holders and so far they're still there. I must admit I was surprised.

[@bulakabarquezwilliams6024]

@Janga Lang Than you do as well.

[@SpringIsBACK]

Green Hulk -- The problem is, not all on tight budgets are irresponsible, and the solution at "your" park probably makes it impractical for a lot of decent people to go there. IMO, a better response would be to increase FINES and add concealed video surveillance; maybe see if some locals would agree to organize and be "park monitors" in exchange for reduced or free entry -- no "enforcement" authority, but would be identified (boldly marked jackets, t-shirts, caps) and CAN report violators. It should be possible to find an "equilibrium" where fines support the enforcement & monitoring, and little enforcement is needed. Very visible signs announcing the program, AND the steep fines, should be included too. Get local media to report violators caught & fines imposed. Fines not paid get you jail time. Ie., "Hang 'em (violators) out to dry!!!"

[@derekd1510]

@@SpringIsBACK People who do these things have no respect for the environment or what is right and wrong. They selfishly take and destroy simply for the joy of doing evil and getting away with it. Just look at our current president. There's no respect or consideration for others or what is right in our society today and police are too busy covering their own asses to bother with arresting and jailing litterers and people who abuse our natural resources. To implement and enforce fines you would have to have a whole bureaucratic enforcement division and concealed video surveillance is expensive and requires constant monitoring and maintenance. The only solution I can see is for good people to band together and enforce what is right through peer pressure and even violence if necessary. Of course that would mean a group would have to devote themselves to living in these areas 24/7 and our current economic system won't allow decent people to do that. You gotta go to work and make that money to live in our society. Nature be damned, the money is all that matters. Never mind that we lived off the land for hundreds of thousands of years before the industrialization of our society. Fortunately there is a man emerging from the herd who wants to change this. Andrew Yang proposes a universal basic income of a thousand dollars a month for every American citizen over the age of 18. This would enable those who are so inclined to actually live off the land and still afford the amenities our modern society can provide. Yang proposes this be paid for by a tax that the rich cannot evade with their accountants, tax shelters and tax write offs, called a Value Added Tax. This is not an income tax, but a consumption tax levied on things like jets, yachts and corporate purchases. Imagine if the billions of dollars of taxes Donald Drumpf has evaded over the years were put into conservation of our public lands instead of wasted on casinos, jets, yachts and hookers for his own selfish personal pleasure, vanity, and delight in doing wrong and getting away with it? Maybe then we could even afford video surveillance and a concerted conservation effort for and expansion of our public lands. But all the good people have to join together and push our society out of the fear and darkness that is overtaking it and out into the light and progress of the future. I hope you all read this and search for Mr. Yang's videos here on KZbin and listen to his ideas for our future for yourselves.He has given me some hope I have not had in a long time. Perhaps you will feel the same.

[@bulakabarquezwilliams6024]

@Janga Lang Well, I can't say anything. Thank you, though. You're the most calm person I've met online in ages.

[@pallypower610]

a heart to heart many people need. Spread the knowledge and the love. subbed. Looking forward to more great content.

[@pachavez05]

Chris , this has always been in my heart . Catch and release is a great way to promote sound preservation of species for future generations to enjoy. Could not have said it any better. We need more people to share this philosophy. Again thanks for sharing

[@joelpasillas9404]

This was a very powerful message.

[@waitaminute-vw9hf]

You learned a very important ethic the hard way. I'm glad to hear people agree with you!

[@AmericanDad6249]

Love for the land . Brother . Your story hit me in the heart. Thank you for taking if the land. Our mother that many people forget about..... And again. Thx for sharing

[@ResistTyrants]

Great story, great lessons! Thanks for sharing so that others may learn from your mistakes, it couldn’t have been easy for you to share. I hope others heed your words. Much respect!

[@65LB]

Thank you for passing along the truth of "Limited Resource". As my brother says . . . It is getting to be just too many people.

[@chuckmcmicheal558]

LouB that's why we need immigration control...atleast charge an entry fee? To compensate for not having to pay taxes the 1st 7 years so that way America's resources wont get depleted in general...not just the fish.

[@mango8918]

Amen, brother. Thanks for doing your part to save this species and educating the rest of us on the importance of doing our part.

[@dombomb8679]

you taught me how to fish with love bait many many years ago. I respect you as a man very much. thank you for blessing me and the future generations with your knowledge and kind aura. youre the man

[@Trumplican]

listening to those birds is so peaceful. i totally agree that place needs to be preserved and cherished

[@larrymartinez7358]

Keep preaching my dude,I hope u guys out there takes to heart what Kris said

[@alienatedbean12]

It's so amazing to watch videos like this. And it's truly emotional cause it's not gonna be there forever and it's hard to know that humans can prevent it from vanishing but with the way some humans are today it's only time before its trashed and gone..

[@jeffchaffee1235]

Talking from your soul it’s something that we all need to find. Thank you for the in sights, it’s a great story and thank you for your time on the water.

[@azconservative8235]

Well said. Probably one of the most heartfelt videos I've ever seen on KZbin. kudos and God Bless!

[@JRODANGLING509]

I agree with you 100%. Well said! I've been following your channel for years from Washington State! Thank you.

[@Docsjeff]

Thx for your conservation.Wish there were more people like you in the outdoors.

[@dangi2723]

Best advocate I think I have ever heard and right from the heart. GOOD JOB

[@tomasr7224]

All respect brother, you no maybe like a year ago I posted on fishbrain about a video you posted, about cleaning your fishing spots, taking a trash bag out and filling it up challenge, and I got not one like about it. And I really put my heart into what I wrote about it, and what you said then, about fishing spots getting closed. Idk some people just have no respect now a days. But keep up the awesome work brother I appreciate your work and the fight.

[@joeroy8354]

TomTom R that’s been my way since I was little guy my dad always taught us that and my kids have been raised the same way

[@yakamarezlife]

I've been taking too many thanks for the perspective brother

[@thereddrumsarerunning8689]

This reminds me of the movie, Grumpy Old Men, chasing after old "Catfish Hunter". They released it acknowledging its perseverance to be allusive. Respect the cycle of life.

[@oldman9843]

Me and my boys chased a giant carp we named Carpo Marx . Yeah carp , but he was huge . I caught and of course released him ( like all carp )

[@deanmlshredder]

"Gustoffson you are one sick bastard"

[@deanmlshredder]

@C Thygeson "looks like ole Chuck's takin the log to the beaver"

[@primalpanther7509]

Those are the best movies ever!!

[@thereddrumsarerunning8689]

@@deanmlshredder hilarious!

[@carlostinsley7390]

This is one of the Best educational videos I've ever seen!!! GREAT JOB!!!! 👍

[@jesannmuse4951]

Thank you for sharing your opinion about your spot we all have a place we like to fish and somewhat we call our favorite spot and then see it get trashed. I'm 70 years old and in my younger days, I was all over the place here in central California. Lately, I did a tour of some of my spots with some family members and like you said it's not our spot are not what I remember fishing. And feeding fish to friends and family well those days are gone. As their now they are covered with broken glass, cans and old tires and whatever else you can think of. No matter what you do you are one and it will never be the same and you can only tell the next generation on how it used to be. But you can't feed and share what it use to be. Now only faded memories and a smile in an old man's mind. Once again Thanks for sharing and your right that was a nice flathead cat.

[@jesannmuse4951]

Thank you for taking the time to read. I hope you pass this on to the next in line.

[@jesannmuse4951]

Thanks for reading for my input to our fish buddies. I would have like to have more fish buddies who under stood that you sow what reap. A great place to even joy and pass on to the future.

[@TheRodude34]

That surprise catch was unbelievable truly a good omen to the story that followed. Keep Fishin!

[@jtcowboy5518]

Well said and so true! Some people can be so irresponsible.

[@heatherd.9390]

You've done well - a month ago when you made this video you said you were getting close to 100K subs and as i watch this today, you are over 105K. Congratulations. This is the first video of yours that I've watched and I just wanted to say that I enjoyed it, I appreciate it, I respect it and I will be sharing it. The fact that I live in an entirely different country and will never make it to your fishing spot, is irrelevant. The principle is key - respect the environment, the habitat and the creatures in it so that people after us can enjoy it. No species or 'resource' as some call it, is safe from becoming over-harvested. It is up to us to only take what we need. Great video - great message. Heather🇨🇦

[@gayshrink3190]

I was just surfing for a video to watch and had no idea who you are. Watched this video and am now a fan. If we all realized that we are killing ourselves when we deplete the resources. If not for the species, release for you own preservation. I grew up in Florida and I can tell you the fishing is not what it was 60 years ago. Thanks for taking the time to post this.

[@rodrigosfishingchannel8625]

I subscribed due to this video, much love and respects👊🏽

[@mixz9929]

You the man ✊🏼 great message and always down to receive and share positivity

[@budgetaudiophilelife-long5461]

THANK YOU MUDDY, FOR SHARING YOUR THOUGHTS AND EFFORTS TO PRESERVE YOUR SPOT AND ALL THE OTHER SPOTS THAT PEOPLE HAVE BEEN THERE FOR YEARS AND NOW WE HAVE TO BECOME MORE AWARE OF OUR RESPONSIBILITIES 🤗💚💚💚

[@jessiegarcia8465]

I am with u brother , I'm 62 years old , half native American, remember one year couldn't wait for deer season to start, and I wanted a big buck ,I mean a big one so I got my wish biggest buck I had ever laid eyes walked to within 7 yards of my ladder stand he looked up at me and he looked at me 14 points and a bonus two drop tines one on each side massive spread , the length of his antlers were again massive ,I stood up hung my longbow up, took my hat off and told him to leave he turned walked away about 10 yards turned back faced me again kinda shook his head pawed the ground several times and very slowly walked out of my view and life, that magnificent animal taught me a lesson I still hunt deer but I refuse to shoot big bucks , can't eat the antlers anyway , most awesome hunt ever and didn't shoot anything, awesome video , bud God bless

[@Jento]

Good video. 👍 Particularly enjoyed the warning about over-fishing and trash. It always pisses me off to see trash around picnic areas, the banks, and especially if it's actually down in the water. Keep it up.

[@cornholius]

I don't even trust most of my friends with spots. Loose lips sink ships. Keep it to yourself. Let them be discovered by people like yourself that take chances and have the motivation.

[@brandonwachter2264]

You just cannot be sure that other's (Anyone,friends included)will be as responsible & respectful as you are yourself.

[@cornholius]

@@brandonwachter2264 It's a real shame too, because I'd love to share these places with people that will actually appreciate them. Last time I took a friends word that they wouldn't advertise an incredible location, was the last time. Unfortunately changed the friendship as well since that was a major violation of trust. The place is still there, but it's more like a public park now.

[@presswoodard3730]

Well one thing for sure is you are the bad friend in your circle. Share the wealth why be selfish?

[@JESTR_ACTUAL]

This is why potato sacks come in handy. Throw one on their head drive around in some circles then take em to the spot. Then on the way out do the same thing. Oh wait wrong profession..

[@suzymcalister7930]

Screw that. I worked hard for my spot. Share it and then blabbermouths want to impress their friends with "their spot" and soon it is ruined. I don't even tell what lake I am fishing. Most times I won't post pics cause some can figure out the lake from the size of the fish I am getting and knowing where I am and where I spend a lot of time fishing. Happened in 2016 and won't happen again.

[@bblando65]

I fished in my youth...loved it so much...unlike most, I guess, I ALWAYS caught and released...never wanted to do what was necessary to clean the fish to eat them, it kinda grossed me out, so I would just catch the bluegill, carp, and catfish in our local creek, then release them...made me feel good to know I was not "interrupting" the life cycle of the creek i fished....good memories, thanks for your video, it made me feel good reminded me of youth....

[@michaelonmaui5680]

God bless you Brother! I wish we had 10,000 more just like you. If we could ever get the point across that you have made so clearly, fishing and hunting would be so much better for EVERYONE and EVERYTHING! Thank you Sir - it's been a pleasure. Take care.

[@RealityTechTV]

I don't even fish. But lately I've been watching your video's just as a way to understand a different lifestyle other than mine. I like your message in this video pertaining to preservation. #salute

[@johnvaughn673]

I loved the video! I agree with you about releasing the flatheads and not trashing the area. When I was young we kept everything we caught. We even run trotlines. I catch and release. If we dont take care of our resources it will be gone in the future. I always say if you pack it in, pack it out. Don't litter! I have a lot of respect for you Sir after that heart to heart video!

[@woodyhuband9248]

You are a wise fisherman. The kind of guy I enjoy having on my boat👍

[@charlesagnew1597]

Am a "Trotliner". Been doin' it most ma life. Am an ol' Man now. Learned many years ago what u said. Live on Toledo Bend Reservoir in Louisiana. Have 100 hooks out on 4 lines. Usually catch a couple each day from 20 to round 60lbs. Every now n' then catch one lot bigger. I net em n' the release them. Many years ago i began seeing the number of fish being caught by commercial fishermen on the lake wit they hoop nets n' it was unbelievable. Toledo is 72 miles long but...damn. Realized that probly only way to sustain the fishery here was ta release the big ones. I do that. And i leave the lake jus as i found it. Don't leave trash, cans, bottles, or anything there...wish others wud do tha same...sadly many don't. I love the land and waters more than i can say...it's what sustains us...Seems great minds DO think alike ma friend...

[@donovanb9020]

Hell yeah brother. Conservation and preservation is what it's all about. Also, I have no idea why... But, I read your post in a Scottish accent. ,

[@dirtyhorse5090]

I use to fish by that there sunkin house by the dam

[@bulldog4465]

Right on brother!! keep New Mexico clean America clean 🇺🇸

[@jonreel403]

Doug Woellhof Hey Doug just started a Fishing Channel and would love any support hitting my goal, thanks bro.

[@johnjohanning4887]

I hope all of your watchers will take what you said to heart. Not just for "your" stretch of river but for every area that the fish.

[@jeffbaker634]

Don't apologize for something you feel so strongly about. I had a place something like your spot when I was much younger and a couple years later it got so trashed out by idiots and their liquor bottles. Broken beer bottles, food trash etc... The county went in and cleaned the mess up and said no more. The closed it off to the public and I'm so glad they did. Keep talking about saving the fish, keeping rivers clean and the environment around them. Thanks for speaking out. That was a beautiful flathead you caught. Love your video man.

[@toddy2519]

Well said, a lesson for everyone that fishes! I could feel your pain in my heart and hope the folks watching this video not only listen but practice his message. Thanks for this video...I "liked" and subscribed!

[@historywithluis]

Great speech! I couldn't agree with you more!

[@duskyspina5749]

Respect thank you for sharing, we can see your passion and feel it and that to us is something else. Thank you

[@electrickflame353]

Thats what I love about fishing the most, I find time to reflect on alot of things without even trying. i was like you when I was young but also evolved to do the same. I am amazed that some people just dont get it! I agree with you brotha!

[@lifeorliberty3086]

Now that came from the heart. Thanks for sharing my friend.

[@andyoliver1054]

My big brother is a big bass fisherman, he has very expensive boat just for fishing ,has for his whole life and never keeps, catche and release always, Have fun fishing then stop by McDonalds on the whay home.

[@FlyFisherGolfing]

Thank you for your message to all that watch you videos. We need to be reminded to respect our natural resources and teach the next generation to enjoy and so on. I often see how much trash (all that you have mentioned) and trout lines. Like yourself, i cut unattended lines which is tied to adjacent trees and brushes. I only harvest planted fish but not often. Spread the word people!

[@jody3058]

this is one of my fave catfish channels, i take that back this my favorite channel, kris keep doin what ur doin, im from oklahoma & we have sum great catfishing here in the red & washita rivers, ur right on the big ones goin back, anyway thank you for the great fishing shows u put out ive enjoyed every one. peace brother

[@marshallcox134]

Man you have the purest soul, I don’t watch many fishing videos but you are inspiring and your love for this shows!

[@khanhle5217]

Very respectful, keep on fishing , thanks for all you do !!!

[@Pack.Leader]

Love it. Thanks for sharing from the heart. For some reason, I always thought you were in TX. I'm in NM myself. Nice to know such a cool little secret place exists right here. I hope people truly respect your wishes and they are super selective who they share this spot with. It only takes one fool and then the jig is up.

[@PRDreams]

Wow, just found your channel. Incredible story. Thanks for doing what you can for the environment.

[@clayburnett5566]

My favorite video. Could not have said it better myself. We take care of our environment, our environment will take care of us. I am a fisherman myself, I always release what I catch.

[@larrywuzhere3866]

That was a great illustrated story! Talking about big flatheads and voila! You catch one. Thanks for sharing Kris.

[@arod919721]

Here i am, watching your rod tip while you're telling the story. I saw that bump at 10:59 and was like 'Bite!, Bite!' Lol.... i gotta go fishin'

[@HECTORGONZALEZ-fe7xf]

Awesome video Kris. Hopefully your message sinks in and people realize how important cpr and selective harvest are. Would be great if future generations are able to enjoy catching these fish as much as we do.

[@HECTORGONZALEZ-fe7xf]

We'll keep doing our part for sure. God bless brother.

[@keokiainokea1115]

I never tell anyone my secret spots...period! Nice catch and keep doing what you do!

[@jason-ian-Van-Sloten]

Great video. Im from the Netherlands. Its all the same , dont matter where you live. Take this man seriously, he's sharing a beautiful spot in his video's, he loves it to death, and talking out of his own experience! Handle it with care & love! Embrace it protect it & enjoy it!