Pro Staff

A distinguished angler with 55+ years on the water, landing formidable fish in fresh and saltwater—including a 222‑lb sturgeon. Today he mentors others toward their fishing milestones. With his son, Stan 3, he documents adventures and tips on “2 Stans Fishing,” partnering with River Cats Tackle, Ancient Mariner, Neverlost Anchors, and Monster Rod Holders.

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Ohio‑raised BBQ master and proud U.S. Army veteran. Childhood fishing put food on the table and sparked a lifelong love for crappie fishing and grilling. After losing his fishing buddy (Pops), a 2021 YouTube video reignited his passion. Surrounded by a welcoming community and casting J & S Signature Series rods, Bobby signs off: “May God speed you on your journeys, bless you abundantly, and may your lines be tight and stringers full!”

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Chris and Verlena Smith—“V”—are a passionate fishing duo from Central Ohio who’ve been casting together since 2008. They chase big, feisty catfish and the perfect bait, while sharing their love of fishing with young anglers and veterans alike. Verlena often lands the biggest fish (Chris credits his “captain skills”). They embody the River Cats Tackle spirit—community, fun, and a genuine love for the sport.

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From Cincinnati, Ohio, Cody finds peace and purpose on the water. A two‑year member of River Cats Tackle Pro Staff, he values the camaraderie that feels like true family. Having tried plenty of gear over the years, he swears by River Cats Tackle and Ancient Mariner—especially the Crimson Reds—for consistently excellent performance.

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Louisiana native who sees fishing as cultural heritage. Jeremy targets trophy catfish across the Mississippi, Atchafalaya, and Red Rivers and shares expertise through the Creole Catfishing YouTube channel and Guide Service. He’s dedicated to education, conservation, and helping others catch more—and bigger—fish.

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A U.S. Army veteran (7th Infantry Division) raised in Southeast Missouri near the Mississippi River. Danny’s passion began at eight with his father and grew into a pursuit of giant Mississippi River catfish. He’s landed numerous lifetime fish, including 18 extraordinary piebald blue catfish—many featured on his YouTube channel.

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Austin Michael Davis—better known as Iconic Outdoors—grew up fishing small Kansas ponds, graduating from youth tournaments to big lakes and streams. Discovering River Cats Tackle took his pursuit even further: exceptional hooks fueling success in both freshwater and saltwater. Beyond great gear, he found a family and community that’s impacted his life well beyond fishing.

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Parker Pursuits — relentless pursuit of river cats.

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With 45 years of fishing experience, Lance chases channel cats and flatheads in Wisconsin and ventures onto Lake Michigan for king salmon, trout, and burbot. Every trip is a chance to connect with nature and share the sport—helping beginners and seasoned anglers alike create unforgettable memories.

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Raised in East Tennessee’s outdoors, Lisa spent countless days trout and bass fishing. After meeting her husband Randy in 2023, she jumped into jug fishing and soon upgraded to River Cats Tackle and Ancient Mariner gear. She’s fallen for catfishing—and the community that comes with it. Personal bests: 74‑lb blue cat, 25‑lb flathead, 4‑lb channel.

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East Tennessee storyteller‑angler who treats every trip as a unique adventure. Mike—“Flathead Mike”—shares secrets of the craft, from bait to prime spots, sprinkled with Southern anecdotes and practical tips. Expect fun, learning, and memorable catches.

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Fishing has been Michael’s passion since childhood. The river feels like home, and being part of River Cats Tackle lets him meet amazing people and share the joy of fishing with newcomers. “Let’s reel in some great memories together!”

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An everyday outdoorsman with an extraordinary passion for fishing—whether casting into quiet waters or laughing around a campfire with friends. Patrick believes the best moments are shared and invites others to explore new waters, swap tips, and make memories together.

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A proud U.S. Air Force veteran who brings discipline and dedication to every outing. Alongside his wife Lisa, Randy dives into the art of catfishing and captures their adventures on video. Being part of River Cats Tackle connects him with like‑minded anglers to swap stories and water‑wise secrets—because every trip should create memories that last a lifetime.

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Southeast Missouri angler and creator of the Fishin N Freedom YouTube channel. Richard explores the Mississippi River and nearby small rivers in search of big blues, flatheads, and panfish. Fishing is a family tradition for him—bringing people together and creating unforgettable memories.

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Brother to Jeremy and fellow Louisiana angler pursuing trophy catfish on the state’s storied waters. Through partnerships with River Cats Tackle and Ancient Mariner, Andrew—“Tank”—helps empower anglers with knowledge, gear, and a passion for conservation. Bon Peche!

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At 53, Randy is living the dream. Proudly married and deeply passionate about catfishing, he runs the Tri Cities Catfishing Tournament in East Tennessee. Fishing isn’t a hobby—it’s a lifelong pursuit. For the past three years he’s teamed up with River Cats Tackle, calling the journey incredible.

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Trav XRKR80HD (pronounced “zer‑ker A‑D‑H‑D”) is a computer nerd, sound engineer, musician, producer, web designer, family man, youth minister, and—most importantly—a Christian who loves Jesus. He met Mr. John Collins on July 4th, 2024 at the Marksville Music Festival and they’ve been cool ever since. Trav knows John to be patient and laid back, and calls Ms. Stef “Momma Stef” because she handles so many things. After years in the oilfield, Trav came home to focus on family and creative passions—offering sound, media, and design services for hire. Catch him on TikTok as @xrkr80hd and show off your awesome catches! 🎣

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