Episodes

96. Noodling

Peter and Cecil discuss the mesmerizing technique of "noodling" - an age-old and adrenaline-pumping fishing method that is as daring as it is unique. Forget rods and reels, because noodling, or hillbilly hand-fishing, requires nothing more than bare hands, courage, a keen understanding of the waters, and a willingness to grab a snapping turtle.  #noodling #alone #tdsr #snappingturtles
Some listener feedback from this episode: 
-You imparted 2 pieces of (alleged) knowledge that has changed my mind. First is the existence of a chain mail noodling glove. That such a thing even exists makes me feel proud to be an American. I believe the noodling glove would embolden me to reach deep into the mud without paralyzing fear. The other game-changer is learning that catfish whiskers don't sting. I was told this a youngster, and never doubted it. Knowing it has sharp pointy parts is less freighting than thinking they could somehow inject venom with their whiskers. (Something I have believed for several decades, that now suddenly seems absurd.) There is only one thing that still gives me pause. The number of days I have gone fishing is well over twice the number of days I have caught fish. To think I could spend a few hours reaching into the mire and still go home empty handed, (or even missing a digit or two if Cecil is right about the snapping turtles,) makes me wonder if this would be worth it. I would like a follow up discussion on whether you think the success rate of noodling is higher or lower than using a fishing pole.