Driftwood Outdoors went live in the Ozarks to celebrate one of Missouri’s great outdoor traditions — the opening day of trout season.

Recorded in front of a live audience at Big Rock Candy Mountain Retreat near Jadwin, Missouri, this special episode brings together storytellers, conservationists, and lifelong outdoorsmen to talk about trout fishing, Ozark heritage, and the traditions that keep people coming back to the Current River year after year.

Guests include: Mark Van Patten, former Missouri Department of Conservation biologist and founder of the Clean Stream movement in Missouri, who discusses his new book Moonshine and Watermelons, and Other Ozark Tales — a collection of stories inspired by life in the Ozarks and the communities around Plato in Texas County.

Ben Timson, retired Missouri State University professor and author of Summers at Cedar Grove: The Rise and Fall of an Ozark Village, shares the fascinating history of Cedar Grove and the changing culture of the Current River region.

Longtime trout season attendee “Uncle” Keith Mueller reflects on more than 60 years of opening day memories and explains why the tradition continues to bring generations of anglers together.

The episode also features Roger Franklin, owner of Big Rock Candy Mountain Retreat, who shares the story behind one of the Current River region’s most unique outdoor destinations.

From Ozark storytelling and conservation history to trout fishing traditions, this live episode captures the spirit of the Current River and the people who love it.

For more info:
Big Rock Candt Mtn Website
Big Rock Candt Mtn FB
Big Rock Candt Mtn Insata
Mark Van Patten Book
Ben Timson Book

Special thanks to:
Living The Dream Outdoor Properties
Superior Foam Insulation LLC
Doolittle Trailers
Scenic Rivers Taxidermy

Connect with Driftwood Outdoors:
Facebook
Instagram
YouTube

Email:
info@driftwoodoutdoors.com