The Katie C. Sawyer Podcast

S2E07: Fishing For the Future with Dr. Walt Golet

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Walt Golet, a brilliant scientist from the University of Maine, to dive into a revolutionary project that could change the future of the bluefin tuna fishery.
We're talking about the Close Kin Mark-Recapture Initiative, a groundbreaking collaboration between Walt's lab and Viking Yachts. The goal? To get a more accurate picture of the Atlantic bluefin population and secure the long-term health of this incredible fishery.
As fishermen, we've seen the bluefin stock make an incredible recovery, but that success brings new challenges. Walt breaks down why our current stock assessments may not be accurate enough and how this can lead to a "regulatory spiral."
The solution is an innovative approach that uses a simple fin clip to gather a wealth of data from live fish. We'll discuss:
How the Close Kin method provides a more accurate count of fish, narrowing the "cloud of uncertainty" in stock assessments.
The surprising reality of stock mixing and how a fish caught in the U.S. might have been spawned in the Mediterranean.
How a tiny piece of fin can reveal a fish's sex, age, and stock origin—without having to harvest it.
The "Genetics for Giants and Juvies" project and how you can easily participate for free.
The incredible, symbiotic relationship between scientists and the fishing community.
This is a must-listen for anyone who loves bluefin tuna. It's a powerful reminder that by working together, we can ensure a sustainable future for the fish we all love to chase.
Learn more & get involved:
Request a Kit:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfXxMQZGTnRos9T3mQSztmfcJKUEZdHiXJxAMgHmDmttI596A/viewform
 
More info on UMaine:
https://umaine.edu/pelagicfisherieslab/2025/06/05/genetics-for-giants-juvies/
 
Donate to the Cause:
https://securelb.imodules.com/s/300/13-ORONO/foundation/index-social.aspx?sid=300&gid=13&pgid=748&cid=1912&dids=3010&sort=1&bledit=1&appealcode=O751
 
Follow the program on Instagram:
@pelagicfisherieslab
 
Email Walt at:
walter.golet@maine.edu
 
Watch this 4 minute video of Walt walking us through the science behind Close Kin and why he thinks this will give us the data foundation to increase our catch limits:
https://youtu.be/-OeB6nqdsBI
 
Watch this 4 minute video of Walt walking us through some incredible migratory patterns of satellite tagged fish:
https://youtu.be/-OeB6nqdsBI
 
Special thanks to Viking Yachts for making this episode possible!!

S2E06: Capt. John Galvin and the Nantucket Skillie Project

In this episode of the Katie C. Sawyer podcast, Captain John Galvin shares his journey from growing up in a fishing family in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, to becoming the captain of the El Diablo. He discusses the importance of crew dynamics, communication, and mutual respect in the fishing industry. John also highlights the rich history of Nantucket as a fishing hub and the diverse species targeted in the Northeast. The conversation delves into the Skillie project, aimed at understanding white marlin populations and their migratory patterns, emphasizing the need for ongoing research and conservation efforts. In this conversation, John Galvin discusses the Skillie Project, which aims to tag white marlin to better understand their migratory patterns and conservation needs. He emphasizes the socioeconomic impact of recreational fishing on coastal communities and the importance of collaboration with local stakeholders. The discussion also touches on the emotional connection many have with fishing, the origins of the Skillie Project, and the data collection from satellite tags. Additionally, the conversation addresses the debate surrounding kill tournaments and the role of recreational fishermen in conservation efforts.
https://www.theskillieproject.com/
Follow the Skillie Project on Instagram Here
Follow Capt. John Galvin on Instagram Here

S2E05: The Black Marlin Project w/ Chloe Mikles

In this episode of the Katie C. Sawyer podcast, host Katie welcomes back Chloe Mikles, a marine biologist and PhD candidate, to discuss her research on bluefin tuna and black marlin. They explore Chloe's recent adventures at Tropic Star Lodge, the importance of conservation efforts in fishing communities, and the innovative tagging programs that help scientists understand these species better. The conversation also delves into the economic impacts of fisheries management and the role of citizen science in marine research, particularly through the Great Marlin Race. In this conversation, Chloe and Katie delve into the dynamics of fishing tournaments, particularly the Great Marlin Race, and the importance of citizen science in engaging anglers. They discuss Chloe's collaboration with renowned marine artist and scientist Dr. Guy Harvey, her experiences fishing with experts, and the techniques used in tagging Black Marlin. The conversation also explores the physiological differences between Black and Blue Marlin, their behaviors, and the ongoing research in billfish conservation. In this conversation, Chloe and Katie delve into the complexities of billfish species, particularly focusing on black marlin. They discuss the challenges of understanding migration patterns and spawning locations, the innovative tagging and tracking methods being developed, and the importance of community involvement in marine research. Chloe shares insights from her research project, highlighting the need for collaboration and funding to support conservation efforts. The conversation emphasizes the excitement of exploration in marine biology and the significance of engaging the fishing community in scientific endeavors.
https://www.tagagiant.org/
Email Chloe: csmikles@stanford.edu
Instagram: @Coastal_chloe
 
takeaways
Chloe is a PhD candidate studying bluefin tuna and black marlin.
Tropic Star Lodge is a premier location for fishing and research.
Conservation efforts are supported by local fishing communities.
Tagging programs provide crucial data on fish migration patterns.
Bluefin tuna research has been extensive due to their economic importance.
Pacific bluefin tuna populations have shown signs of recovery.
The Great Marlin Race engages anglers in scientific research.
Citizen science is vital for gathering data on billfish.
Fishermen's observations contribute to scientific understanding.
Effective fisheries management is essential for sustainable fishing. The Great Maryland Race involves tournaments where the furthest fish wins.
Citizen science enhances angler engagement and investment in fish conservation.
Collaboration with experts like Guy Harvey enriches research efforts.
Fishing with seasoned professionals provides invaluable learning experiences.
Tagging efforts require collaboration among the fishing community.
Understanding fish physiology is crucial for successful releases.
Black Marlin exhibit different behaviors compared to Blue Marlin.
The fight dynamics of Black Marlin can vary significantly.
Research on billfish phylogeny is constantly evolving with new data.
Effective conservation strategies depend on angler participation and education. Billfish species have complex migration patterns and spawning locations.
Black marlin are primarily found in the Indo-Pacific, with limited known spawning sites.
Tagging technology is evolving to better track billfish movements.
Community involvement is crucial for marine research and conservation efforts.
Understanding climate impacts, like El Nino, is vital for fish populations.
Innovative tagging methods are being tested to improve data collection.
Collaboration among scientists is essential for advancing marine research.
The fishing community plays a significant role in supporting conservation initiatives.
Research on billfish can lead to better management practices for fisheries.
Engaging the public in marine science can foster greater awareness and support for conservation.
 

S2E04: The Art of Gyotaku w/ Dwight Hwang

In this engaging conversation, Katie C. Sawyer interviews Dwight Hwang, a master of Gyotaku, the Japanese art of fish printing. Dwight shares the history and techniques of Gyotaku, its cultural variations, and his personal journey as an artist. He discusses the challenges he faced in pursuing his passion for art, the influence of his family, and the importance of storytelling in his work. The conversation highlights the deep connection between art, nature, and personal memories, making Gyotaku a unique and meaningful form of artistic expression. In this segment of the conversation, Dwight Hwang shares his journey from filmmaking to the art of Gyotaku, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in art and the energy that fresh fish brings to his prints. He discusses the challenges he faced during his transition, the pivotal moments that led him to embrace fish printing, and the collaborative efforts with his family in this unique art form. The conversation delves into the technical aspects of preparing fish for printing, the significance of Sumi ink and Washi paper, and the intricate techniques involved in capturing the essence of different fish species, including rare specimens like the anglerfish. In this conversation, Dwight Hwang shares his journey as an artist specializing in fish printing and human portraits. He discusses the intricate process of creating dynamic prints, the challenges of working with different subjects, and the emotional connections formed through art. Dwight also highlights the importance of family in his creative process and how his work has evolved to include powerful human stories, particularly in the context of social issues. The discussion emphasizes the therapeutic nature of art and the deep connections it fosters between the artist and the subjects.
Find Dwight's Website Here
See Dwight on Instagram Here
 

S2E03: Freediving, Entrepreneurship, and Pushing Boundaries w/ Jen Jones

Find Jen: 
@Jenjofoto 
@jenjonesweddings 
@thefotobus.co
Summary
In this engaging conversation, Katie and Jen explore the multifaceted world of photography, entrepreneurship, and the thrilling experiences of freediving. Jen shares her journey as a successful entrepreneur in the wedding photography industry, her life in Baja, and the dynamics of her relationship with her husband, Wiley, who works in the filming business. They reminisce about their serendipitous meeting in Panama and the exhilarating adventures they’ve had in the ocean, including the challenges and safety concerns of freediving. The discussion delves into the role of ego in pushing personal boundaries and the importance of listening to one's body in extreme sports. In this engaging conversation, Katie and Jen discuss their experiences with freediving and spearfishing, emphasizing the importance of safety, the mental aspects of diving, and the primal connection to the ocean. They share personal stories, highlight the significance of dive buddies, and delve into the physiological effects of hypoxia and blackouts. The discussion also touches on the meditative state achieved during dives and the thrill of hunting in blue water, creating a rich narrative about the underwater adventure. In this conversation, Jen shares her journey into free diving certification, the challenges she faced, and the importance of stepping outside one's comfort zone. She discusses her entrepreneurial ventures, emphasizing the significance of pursuing passions and the growth that comes from overcoming obstacles. The dialogue highlights the connection between personal experiences in diving and the broader themes of self-discovery and resilience in entrepreneurship.
 
Keywords
photography, entrepreneurship, freediving, ocean, collaboration, women in business, work-life balance, Baja, spearfishing, adventure, freediving, spearfishing, safety, hypoxia, dive buddies, mental health, ocean, underwater, fishing, adventure, free diving, certification, comfort zone, entrepreneurship, personal growth, underwater photography, self-discovery, risk-taking, passion, adventure

S2E02: The Secrets to Establishing Yourself in the Sportfishing Industry w/ Hannah Drake

In this conversation, Katie and Hannah discuss their shared experiences in the fishing industry, focusing on Hannah's journey from recreational fishing to becoming a mate on a sport fishing boat in Tahiti. They explore the challenges faced by women in the industry, the importance of mentorship, and the transition to professional fishing. Hannah shares her early experiences, the obstacles she overcame, and the pivotal moments that shaped her career, including her move to Hawaii and the lessons learned along the way. In this conversation, Hannah Drake shares her experiences of moving from the East Coast to Hawaii, detailing the challenges she faced in finding stable housing and transportation. She discusses the steep learning curve of adapting to a new fishing culture, particularly the transition from light tackle to heavy tackle fishing. The conversation also delves into the gender dynamics within the fishing industry, highlighting the scrutiny women often face and the importance of building professional relationships. Hannah reflects on her journey with the Sea Weas, a private boat, and the various experiences that shaped her career in sport fishing. In this conversation, Hannah and Katie share their memorable experiences while boating and fishing in various locations, including the Darien Rainforest, Panama, the Azores, and Madeira. They discuss cultural encounters with indigenous tribes, the challenges of navigating rough waters, and the joys of fishing in beautiful locations. The conversation highlights the unique wildlife experiences and the camaraderie developed during their adventures, as well as the local regulations they encountered while fishing. In this conversation, Hannah Drake shares her experiences traveling through the Azores and the Mediterranean while working on a fishing boat. She discusses the challenges faced during their journey, including weather delays, boat repairs, and visa issues. Hannah emphasizes the importance of having a good agent when traveling internationally and offers advice for those pursuing their passions. The conversation also delves into the thrill of marlin fishing and the logistics involved in being a mate on a fishing boat, as well as the dynamics of working alongside a spouse in such a unique environment.
 
Keywords
fishing, Tahiti, mentorship, career transition, sport fishing, women in fishing, boat life, Hawaii, fishing community, personal journey, Hawaii, fishing culture, gender dynamics, sport fishing, relationships, challenges, transition, respect, Sea Weas, fishing industry, boating, fishing, cultural experiences, Darien Rainforest, Azores, Madeira, challenges, adventures, Azores, Mediterranean, fishing, travel, boat repairs, visa issues, marlin fishing, working with spouse, adventure, ocean

S2E01: A Year in Review and What to Expect in 2025

Email Opt In : https://katiecsawyer.myflodesk.com/signmeup
GZ Tackle :  https://gzlures.com?sca_ref=6571672.xDzpJx3JXx
Summary
In this episode, Katie reflects on her adventures in 2024, including her podcast launch, partnerships with GZ Tackle, and her experiences elk hunting in Idaho and fishing in Australia. She shares her excitement for upcoming projects in 2025, including women's bill fishing clinics and a scholarship program, while emphasizing her commitment to wildlife and nature conservation.
 
Keywords
 
fishing, podcast, elk hunting, Australia, women's clinics, GZ Tackle, micro courses, wildlife, nature, outdoor adventures

Ep.17: Texas: Living Off the Land and Debunking Meat Myths with Jesse Griffiths

Jesse Griffiths, chef and co-owner of Dai Due in Austin, discusses his passion for sourcing food locally and sustainably. He emphasizes the importance of connecting with the food source and understanding the seasonality of ingredients. Griffiths shares his unique approach to food, which includes hunting, fishing, and foraging. He also talks about the New School of Traditional Cookery, his restaurant's butcher shop, and the Texas wine industry. Griffiths highlights the need for stewardship of resources and the importance of private landowners in facilitating hunting opportunities. The conversation explores the topic of hunting and the importance of introducing new hunters to the experience. It delves into the issue of feral hogs in Texas and the need for their eradication. The conversation also addresses the misconception that pigs are not good to eat and highlights the deliciousness of wild hog meat. The care and butchering of pigs are discussed, emphasizing the importance of keeping the meat cold and dry. In this part of the conversation, Jesse Griffiths and Katie discuss the misconceptions and best practices for handling and cooling wild game, specifically deer and hogs. They talk about the importance of not directly putting the meat on ice and instead using a cooler to allow for proper cooling and moisture removal. Jesse emphasizes the difference between bleeding an animal and removing moisture from the muscles. They also touch on the topic of brining and how it can improve flavor and texture. The conversation then shifts to potential diseases in wild game and the importance of wearing gloves during the skinning and gutting process. Jesse explains that freezing the meat for an extended period of time and cooking it to a high temperature can help eliminate any potential risks. They conclude the conversation by discussing some of Jesse's favorite recipes from his hog and turkey books.
 
Links:
Afield
The Hog Book
The Turkey Book
Dai Due & NSTC
 
Takeaways
 
Sourcing food locally and sustainably allows for a deeper connection with the food source and a better understanding of seasonality.
Hunting, fishing, and foraging are important aspects of Griffiths' approach to food and allow for a diverse range of ingredients.
The New School of Traditional Cookery and the butcher shop at Dai Due provide opportunities for people to learn about and engage with the food they consume.
The Texas wine industry is growing and offers a unique opportunity to pair local wines with local food.
Private landowners play a crucial role in facilitating hunting opportunities and promoting stewardship of resources. Introducing new hunters to the experience of hunting is important for dispelling misconceptions and fostering appreciation for resources.
Feral hogs are an invasive species in Texas and their population needs to be controlled through hunting and eradication efforts.
Pigs are delicious and can be prepared in various ways depending on their size and characteristics.
Proper care and butchering techniques, such as keeping the meat cold and dry, are essential for preserving the quality of wild hog meat. Proper cooling and moisture removal are important for handling wild game.
Bleeding an animal is different from removing moisture from the muscles.
Brining can improve flavor and texture in wild game.
Wearing gloves during the skinning and gutting process can help prevent potential diseases.
Freezing the meat for an extended period of time and cooking it to a high temperature can eliminate risks.
Jesse Griffiths has a hog book and a turkey book with a wide array of recipes.
 
Keywords
 
sourcing food, farm-to-table, sustainable, local, hunting, fishing, foraging, traditional cookery, butcher shop, Texas wine, private land, stewardship, hunting, feral hogs, Texas, eradication, wild hog meat, care, butchering, cold, dry, wild game, handling, cooling, misconceptions, bleeding, moisture removal, brining, diseases, gloves, freezing, cooking, recipes

Ep.16: Spearfishing the Azores with RIFFE Team Diver Paulo Afonso

Summary
In this conversation, Katie interviews Paulo Afonso, an Azorian freediver and member of the Rife International Spear Fishing Team. They discuss Paulo's background, his upbringing in Pico Island, and his passion for spearfishing and free diving. Paulo shares his experiences and techniques for blue water spearfishing, including how he selects and shoots fish, and the risks involved. He also talks about the importance of preparation, staying calm in high-intensity situations, and the thrill of the pursuit. Paulo emphasizes the need for safety protocols and the impact of having children on his approach to diving. In this part of the conversation, Paulo discusses the importance of having a dive buddy and the role they play in ensuring safety during a dive. He emphasizes the rule of one diver down and one diver up, and how a dive buddy can help in case of emergencies such as a shark approaching or a blackout. Paulo also shares his experience with blackouts and how to react in such situations. The conversation then shifts to the safety protocols for boat captains when divers are in the water, including the importance of staying vigilant and knowing the exact location of the divers. Paulo also talks about the equipment he uses, such as dive computers and fish finders, and how he takes care of his equipment after a dive. The chapter ends with a discussion on reef diving, including the importance of knowing the dive spots, waiting for the fish to come in, and the role of communication between dive buddies. In this final part of the conversation, Paulo discusses his most memorable moment in the ocean, the role of emotions in spearfishing, and his content creation process. He also shares tips for diving with sharks and dealing with challenging situations while spearfishing. Paulo talks about the different species of amberjack and his favorite ways to prepare and eat fish. He provides information on where to find his content on social media.
Instagram and YouTube:  @pauloafonso9268 
Takeaways
Paulo grew up in Pico Island, surrounded by the ocean and a family of spearfishers.
He developed a passion for spearfishing and free diving from a young age and has honed his skills over the years.
Paulo's approach to blue water spearfishing involves chasing bait balls and using birds and dolphins as indicators.
He remains calm and focused in high-intensity situations, relying on his instincts and experience. Safety is a priority for Paulo, and he takes precautions to mitigate risks and ensure a safe diving experience.
Having a dive buddy is crucial for safety during a dive, as they can help in case of emergencies and provide support.
Boat captains should always stay vigilant and know the exact location of the divers to prevent any accidents or loss of divers.
Proper equipment, such as dive computers and fish finders, can enhance the diving experience and improve safety.
Reef diving requires patience and waiting for the fish to come in, and communication between dive buddies is important for success.
Taking care of equipment, including rinsing with fresh water and drying in the shade, is essential for its longevity.
Emotions play a key role in spearfishing, as animals can sense your intentions and energy.
When diving with sharks, it's important to keep your eyes on them at all times and be aware of their behavior.
In challenging situations while spearfishing, it's crucial to stay calm and assess the problems before taking action.
There are different species of amberjack, and the ones in the Azores are highly prized for their taste and quality.
Paulo's favorite way to prepare fish is grilling, as it brings out the flavors and juiciness.
Paulo shares his content on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube under the name @pauloafonso .
Keywords:
freediving, spearfishing, Pico Island, Azores, blue water diving, safety protocols, dive buddy, safety, blackout, boat captain, equipment, reef diving, communication, ocean, memorable moment, emotions, spearfishing, sharks, challenging situations, amberjack, fish preparation, content creation, social media

Ep.15: Billfishing Courses in the Galapagos with Katie and Jamie Melvin

For more information email me at:
Katie@katiecsawyer.com
 
Summary
 
In this episode of the Katie C. Sawyer Podcast, host Katie sits down with Jamie Melvin, a fly fisherman and guide specializing in billfish. They discuss Jamie's journey from fishing in Kenya to guiding in the Galapagos, the unique fishing opportunities available there, and the importance of conservation. The conversation delves into the techniques of fly fishing for billfish, the dynamics of fishing as a team sport, and the incredible biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands. Jamie shares insights on what to expect when booking a fishing trip, the role of a guide, and the overall experience of fishing in such a magical location.
 
The Galapagos is an opportunity you don’t want to miss! Email Katie today to learn how you can partake.  Dates in 2024 still available!
 
Takeaways
 
Jamie Melvin specializes in fly fishing for billfish.
Kenya offers a unique fishing experience with multiple species.
The Galapagos is known for its incredible striped marlin fishery.
Teasing techniques are crucial for successful billfish fishing.
Fishing in the Galapagos combines adventure with conservation efforts.
Guided trips provide opportunities for learning and skill development.
Fishing is a team sport that requires coordination and communication.
The Galapagos Islands are a biodiversity hotspot.
Guests can expect a full-service fishing experience in the Galapagos.
Fishing connects individuals to nature and promotes environmental awareness.