Mississippi Outdoors Podcast

In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, host Matt Wyatt talks with Chris McDonald from the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce about the state’s expanding efforts to control the wild hog crisis. Chris shares how Mississippi became the first state ag agency in the nation to lead a hog trapping program and how that program has grown from a simple contest to a full-scale, multi-county operation. The conversation covers funding, trap loans, landowner support, and the innovative Youth Trapping Corps, which partners with FFA chapters to teach kids how to trap, weld, and launch their own local businesses. If you’re dealing with wild hogs—or just want to know how the state is fighting back—this one’s for you.

In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, host Matt Wyatt is joined by Dr. Wes Neal, Research and Extension Professor at Mississippi State University, to talk all things private ponds—how to grow big bass, avoid common stocking mistakes, and understand what actually causes fish kills. Wes walks through the science of pond management, explains why crappie are a disaster in small ponds, and breaks down his three golden rules for success: build it right, stock it right, fish it right. From salinity stress to bass genetics to catfish crowd control, this episode is a masterclass for anyone trying to manage a productive private fishery in Mississippi.

In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, host Matt Wyatt sits down with Brooks Warren of the Turcotte Fish Hatchery to uncover how Mississippi raises and stocks fish across public lakes and rivers. Brooks explains how field biologists determine what fish are needed, how the hatchery grows and delivers everything from Florida-strain largemouth bass to bluegill and striped bass, and how fish sometimes end up in ponds thanks to birds—not humans. They also talk about the physical work behind the scenes, surprising fish encounters at the Ross Barnett Spillway, and how anglers play a key role in shaping Mississippi’s stocking efforts.

In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, host Matt Wyatt welcomes back Houston Havens, MDWFP Waterfowl Program Coordinator, for a deep dive into duck migration, breeding grounds, habitat management, and what really affects duck populations each season. From frozen Delta water to ducks migrating thousands of miles to the prairie pothole regions of Canada, Houston explains how weather, habitat, and private landowners shape the future of Mississippi duck hunting. This episode offers a full-season recap, insight into the science behind duck bands, and the crucial role of landowner partnerships in sustaining healthy waterfowl populations.

In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, host Matt Wyatt sits down with Brent Madden, Captain at the Mississippi Conservation Officer Training Academy, to break down what it really takes to become a game warden. From the intense six-month training program to the unexpected challenges in the field, Brent shares his personal journey, the misconceptions about conservation officers, and the grueling physical and mental tests that prepare cadets for the job. If you've ever wondered what it takes to wear the badge, this episode delivers an inside look at one of the toughest and most rewarding careers in law enforcement.

In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, host Matt Wyatt sits down with Robert McGuire and Dr. Harvey Leslie to explore the ancient sport of falconry—hunting with birds of prey. They discuss how falconry works, the skills and permits required, and how they train peregrine falcons to hunt ducks at 200 mph. From the surprising history of falconry to their most intense hunting moments, this conversation offers a deep dive into a rare but fascinating sport practiced by only a handful of people in Mississippi.

In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, host Matt Wyatt sits down with John Gruchy, Private Lands Coordinator at MDWFP, to discuss the biggest mistakes landowners make when managing their property. John shares practical tips for improving wildlife habitat, the importance of planning before making changes, and how to avoid wasting time and money on ineffective management strategies. From random acts of management to balancing recreation and economics, this episode breaks down what it takes to successfully manage private land in Mississippi.

In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, host Matt Wyatt sits down with legendary gardener and radio host Felder Rushing to talk about native plants, wildflowers, and how to have a beautiful yard without upsetting the HOA. Felder, a retired horticulturist and longtime voice of Mississippi Public Broadcasting’s gardening show, The Gestalt Gardener, shares why native plants are better for wildlife, easier to maintain, and essential for pollinators. He also breaks down the No-Mow March movement and explains how you can let your yard grow naturally—without it looking messy. Whether you’re a hardcore gardener or just someone who wants a lower-maintenance lawn, this episode is packed with knowledge and laughs.

In this episode of the Mississippi Outdoors Podcast, host Matt Wyatt sits down with Calvin Rezac, an aquatic biologist at the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, to discuss one of the most iconic creatures in the South—crawfish (or is it crayfish?). Calvin breaks down the different species found in Mississippi, including burrowing crayfish, their role in the ecosystem, and why the state is a hotspot for crawfish diversity. The conversation also explores what makes for a great crawfish season, the best ways to identify different species, and surprising predators that feast on these crustaceans—including hawks! If you’ve ever wondered about the critters behind your favorite crawfish boil, this episode is for you.