Spot Burn Podcast Episode 35 Recap: Underwater Tech, OnX Fish, DNR Updates, and the First-Ever Fly Roast

The Spot Burn Podcast is back with Episode 35, and Dan and Josh have a lot to cover—everything from the ethics of new underwater fishing technology to hosting an entire podcast-within-a-podcast roasting your flies. 


 

1. New Underwater Cameras & OnX Fish

SeaWii Underwater “Trail Cam”

The guys kick things off discussing the latest in aquatic tech: an underwater “trail camera” from SeaWii. This device uses AI to monitor fish activity in real time—similar to game cams for deer and turkey. Dan and Josh debate whether this is a leap forward for conservation (tracking invasive species, surveying habitats) or just another step toward over-reliance on tech for catching fish.

OnX Fish Launch

Next up: OnX Fish, an offshoot of the popular OnX Hunt mapping app. Designed to help anglers find hotspots, boat landings, and even “trophy potential” waters in Wisconsin and Minnesota, OnX Fish has Josh and Dan both intrigued and uneasy. They applaud the app’s ability to aggregate data from DNR sources but worry about the ethical implications of further “spot burning” and reliance on gadgets over good old-fashioned fish scouting.

 


 

2. Trout Season Updates & Lake Delavan News

Trout Season Kickoff
Early-season driftless trout fishing is underway—albeit with frigid temps. The guys share tips like fishing with small buggers and nymphs, plus the classic “just enjoy being outdoors” mantra. With a polar vortex on the horizon, don’t be surprised if a cozy sauna beats out wading for stockers.

Farmers Partner to Clean Up Lake Delavan
Shout-out to local farmers in Walworth County who teamed up to plant cover crops and reduce runoff. Algae blooms on Lake Delavan appear to be improving, but a proposed commercial development could threaten water quality. Dan and Josh encourage listeners to investigate the Change.org petition and stay informed on local conservation issues.

 


 

3. DNR Budget Updates & Big Thaw Event

Wisconsin DNR Budget Concerns
A continuing theme from earlier episodes, the budget deficit for Wisconsin’s Department of Natural Resources remains a hot topic. Dan breaks down the latest efforts by the Wisconsin Wildlife Coalition—a partnership of groups like Trout Unlimited and Musky Clubs—looking to restore lost funding. From cutting license discounts to rethinking the fee structure, they emphasize that real action requires unified voices and political will.

Big Thaw Event & Fly Fishing Film Tour
Mark your calendars for March 21–22. Musky Fool is hosting the Fly Fishing Film Tour Friday night at the Barrymore Theatre in Madison, followed by an all-day bash on Saturday at the shop (nicknamed “The Big Thaw”). Expect seminars, demos, gear deals, beer, and an after-party at a local Mexican restaurant (karaoke included). Everyone’s invited—regardless of whether you’re a musky, trout, or bass fool.

 


 

4. The Fly Roast Debut: A Pod Within a Pod

Easily the highlight of Episode 35, Dan and Josh officially launch The Fly Roast, a comedic—but insightful—segment dedicated to unboxing and critiquing viewer-submitted flies. Inspired by the live-comedy show format of “Kill Tony,” they open two patterns and unleash the first Roast! 

Want to see how your fly stacks up? Send your fly to Musky Fool for a chance to be unboxed in future episodes—no disclaimers needed, just some thick skin and a sense of humor. Check The Fly Roast page on their site for details.

 


 

5. 2024 Wrap-Up & Looking Ahead to 2025

The hosts look back on the year’s best and worst podcast moments (spoiler: boat-maintenance episodes struggled), then outline big 2025 goals:

  • More interviews: Biologists, rod builders, “OG” musky legends.

  • Epic Fishing Trips: Kentucky River Musky Classic in February, plus more float trips on lesser-known Wisconsin rivers.

  • Personal Upgrades: Both hosts are hitting the gym and improving posture (yes, really) to endure long days chucking big flies.

 


 

Quick Tip: Check Your Ferrules

To wrap it up, the guys remind everyone to constantly check rod ferrules—loose connections can lead to rod breakage at the worst possible time. A simple habit of re-seating ferrules during the day can save your wallet (and your trophy fish).

 


 

Listen & Subscribe

Don’t miss the musky mayhem, new conservation insights, and comedic fly-tying critiques. Episode 35 is live—and it’s one you’ll want to catch from start to finish.

 


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