Between Two Rods

In this episode of Between Two Rods, host Aaron Rich sits down with Dan Rowe, President and CEO of the Panama City Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau, to explore how fishing, diving, and eco-tourism have become core pillars of the region’s thriving travel economy. From the success of the “Color Your Summer Snapper Red” campaign to the creation of artificial reefs like Stein’s Black Pearl, Dan shares how Panama City Beach has built a year-round tourism strategy that celebrates its natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle. They dive into topics like the balance between tourism and conservation, the rise of real-fun fishing experiences, the storytelling power of the hit TV show Chasing the Sun, and why PCB is one of the best places in the world to cast a line. Whether you’re a passionate angler, local business owner, or travel lover looking for your next adventure, this episode reveals how fishing culture drives community, economy, and unforgettable experiences on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

In this episode of Between Two Rods, host Aaron Rich sits down with industry trailblazer Angie Thompson — former ESPN Outdoors producer, VP at Bassmaster, and now owner of Fishing Tackle Retailer and The Fishing Wire. Angie opens up about her incredible career shaping outdoor storytelling, launching the FLW Tour, producing the ESPN Outdoor Games, and redefining women’s roles in the fishing industry. They dive deep into: - How Angie’s creative vision changed outdoor TV and digital media - Lessons learned from decades working with legends in fishing - Her journey as a woman breaking barriers in a male-dominated sport - Thoughts on forward-facing sonar, authenticity in fishing, and the future of storytelling - Unforgettable fishing adventures from Alaska to the Amazon If you love fishing, storytelling, or inspiration from one of the most influential women in outdoor media, this episode is a must-listen.

Host Aaron Rich dives deep into the launch of Florida State University Panama City’s first-ever collegiate bass fishing team with guests Coach Travis Page and Tim Kessler-Cleary, Director of Student Affairs at FSU PC. Together, they share how this groundbreaking program grew from Mosley High School’s fishing club into a Bassmaster College Series contender, inspiring students to connect with the outdoors and compete at the national level. From recruiting young anglers to life lessons learned on the water, this conversation explores how fishing builds leadership, character, and community—and how FSU Panama City is becoming a rising force in the collegiate bass fishing world.

Join Between Two Rods as we dive into the excitement of the annual Stone Crab Tournament with guest Mike Wynn, Commodore of the St. Andrews Bay Yacht Club. From the thrill of stone crabbing and unforgettable tournament moments to epic fishing trips in Venice, Louisiana, and even swimming alongside whale sharks, this episode is packed with wild stories, fishing tips, and a look at the community traditions that make the tournament so special. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just love great fishing stories, this episode delivers adventure, camaraderie, and a true passion for life on the water.

In this episode of Between Two Rods, host Aaron Rich sits down with Chelsey Adami of Captain Anderson’s Marina and BJ Burkett of Hook ’Em Up Charters to talk all things Panama City Fishing Rodeo and the return of the PCB Seafood Festival. From kids’ fishing clinics and family-friendly competitions to live music, local seafood, and even fireworks over the lagoon, this community-driven event brings anglers, families, and food lovers together. Tune in to hear how the rodeo is growing each year, why it’s all about getting kids hooked on fishing, and what makes Panama City a top spot for both fishing and fun.

In this episode of Between Two Rods, host Aaron Rich sits down with Panama City local Charlie , whose life has been anything but ordinary. From his blue-collar start in Winn-Dixie refrigeration to building and selling a company, Charlie’s “say yes” attitude has taken him from neighborhood fishing holes to international tournaments, YETI ads, TV shows, and even a surprise turn as an underwear model. He shares stories of sight fishing redfish, beating Kevin VanDam in a once-in-a-lifetime bass challenge, and how hard work and humility opened doors to adventures most anglers only dream about.

In this episode Aaron Rich sits down with hydrologist and entrepreneur Brett Connell, Director of Sales at Trutta Environmental Solutions. Brett shares his journey from fishing the waters of Lake Erie as a kid to pioneering the High Definition Stream Survey (HDSS)—a groundbreaking technology used to map and restore rivers across the U.S. They dive into Brett’s field experiences, the challenges of starting a water-focused business, and how data-driven stream mapping is changing the way communities, agencies, and anglers think about conservation. From abandoned mine cleanup to hurricane recovery, Brett explains how his work helps balance development with protecting natural resources. Whether you’re passionate about fishing, water quality, or environmental innovation, this episode is full of insights, stories, and even a few laughs about cows, gators, and life on the river.

In this episode of Between Two Rods, Aaron Rich sits down with father-son duo Fred and Carter, two of the best professional redfish anglers in the world. From winning the 2024 Team of the Year on the National Redfish Tour to their own individual accomplishments their track record is undeniable. They share stories of fishing together since Carter was just five years old, the mental toughness it takes to compete at the highest level, and the strategies that separate champions from the rest of the field. Whether it’s long runs across the Gulf, sight-fishing in Louisiana, or the pressure of measuring that perfect slot fish, this conversation is packed with lessons on competition, preparation, and the unbreakable bond between father and son.

In this episode of Between Two Rods, Aaron sits down with husband-and-wife duo Taylor and Cole Sauls, whose lives revolve around the coastal lifestyle of Panama City. Taylor, owner of Salty Marlin Realty, specializes in coastal properties, while Cole is a marine artist, avid fisherman, and owner of Grander Home Inspections. They share how their passions for fishing, art, and real estate intertwine, from painting marlin straight from memory to raising their son on the water. You’ll hear stories of wild catches, unexpected adventures, and how following what you love can turn into a thriving career. If you love fishing, coastal living, or just hearing from people who live and breathe the salt life, this episode is packed with inspiration, laughs, and plenty of fish tales.

In this episode of Between Two Rods, Aaron Rich sits down with Coach Winston Chester—educator, Bay District Schools board member, and host of Panhandle Outdoors, the only daily outdoor TV show in the country. Coach shares highlights from 20 years on the air and 44 years in the classroom, including wild fishing tales, the inspiration behind his book Full Box, and why outdoor education matters more than ever. From catching 60,000 bass to documenting shark liver research, this episode is packed with history, humor, and heart.