Podcast
Mill House Podcast
Hosted by Mill House · EN
With a passion for storytelling, Mill House is more than a fishing podcast. Comprised of in-depth conversations with innovators, legends, and pioneers of the outdoors, we expose untold and compelling stories from industry leaders.
27episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Episode 165: Andy & Nicky - Fishing Q&A #3
2w ago01:16:40Tap to summarizeOn today’s podcast, we answer a variety of listener-submitted questions, including our favorite ocean tarpon flies, different bonefish flies and when to use them, the most underrated saltwater game fish, and our favorite fishing movies and documentaries — plus plenty more along the way. These Q&A episodes are always fun for us to record, so if you enjoy them, let us know and we’ll definitely keep doing more! Have a question you’d like us to answer in a future episode? Email us at Nicky@millhousepodcast.com or send us a DM on social. Hope you enjoy!
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Episode 164: Capt. Brian Dopirak - DOPE
4w ago01:41:57Tap to summarizeBrian Dopirak grew up in a household driven by success. His father, Al Dopirak, was one of the most accomplished tarpon guides of his time. As a young boy, Brian spent countless May days in his father’s boat, watching anglers pursue giant tarpon across the flats. Al, alongside Tom Evans, landed two record-setting fish that may stand forever—a 191-pound tarpon on 16-pound tippet and an incredible 194.5-pounder on 12-pound test. Brian witnessed the glory days of Homosassa’s flats firsthand. While learning the sport, he occasionally got the chance to fight fish that his father’s clients had already hooked, giving him an early taste of the challenge and excitement. Despite his upbringing on the water, Brian had no intention of becoming a guide. His passion was baseball. As he grew bigger and stronger, his power at the plate earned him the nickname “Light Tower Power,” a nod to the towering home runs he launched. In 2002, Brian was selected in the second round of the MLB Draft by the Chicago Cubs. At 22, during his first full fall season, he hit 39 home runs—just three shy of a Midwest League record. Over a 10-year professional career that lasted through 2011, he played in the organizations of the Cubs, Blue Jays, and Astros. Brian finished his minor league career with 162 home runs. However, persistent foot injuries ultimately prevented him from reaching the major leagues. After his baseball career came to a close, Brian traded the diamond for the poling platform. Returning to the waters that shaped his childhood, he began building a name for himself as a fishing guide in Homosassa—following in the footsteps of his father. Carrying on the Doparik legacy, Brian now shares his deep knowledge of the fishery with anglers, blending a lifetime of experience on the water with the same drive and determination that once defined his career in baseball.
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Episode 163: Capt. Rick Murphy - Master Angler, Relentless Survivor
Apr 2201:26:22Tap to summarizeRick Murphy’s impact on the world of fishing runs deep. Many know him from his television shows—Sportsman’s Adventures, Florida Insider Fishing Report, and Texas Insider Fishing Report—popular across the Southeast. But his true legacy is built on the water—as a Florida fishing guide and a relentless tournament competitor. Murphy is widely regarded as a tarpon fishing wizard, having won all four major tarpon tournaments. Yet what sets him apart isn’t just mastery of one species—it’s his rare versatility. He’s just as formidable offshore, with multiple sailfish tournament victories to his name. By his own count, he’s claimed around 150 combined inshore and offshore wins. Still, his most remarkable achievement isn’t a trophy-- It's survival. In 2022, Murphy was involved in a twin-engine charter plane crash while en route to the Bahamas when they ran out of fuel and crashed into the ocean. He suffered severe injuries, including multiple fractures to his face and back. Against the odds, he stayed alive by clinging to a cushion until a passing boat rescued them. That moment revealed something deeper than skill or success—it showed an unbreakable will. We’ve been pursuing his story for years, and now we’ve finally captured the most compelling chapters of Rick Murphy’s life.
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Episode 162: Anthony Hsieh - Bad Company Fishing Adventures
Apr 801:28:50Tap to summarizeAnthony Hsieh’s success in the mortgage industry is nothing short of extraordinary. What began as a simple application for a loan officer position turned into ownership of the very company he once hoped to join. From there, he built Loans Direct, selling it to E*TRADE in 2001. He followed that with HomeLoanCenter.com, which he sold to LendingTree in 2004. Then came his biggest venture—LoanDepot, founded in 2010—where he served as CEO and Chairman until 2022, before returning last year to once again lead the company as Permanent CEO and Chairman. But long before the boardrooms and billion-dollar deals, Hsieh’s focus was already undeniable. At just eight years old, he was helping his family work toward owning their own business. At the same time, he was a young fisherman with big dreams. Growing up in Newport Beach, California, Catalina Island wasn’t just a destination—it was a challenge waiting across open water. He cut his teeth on the Venice Pier catching thresher sharks, sold bait, worked as a deckhand on day boats, and ran down the Baja Peninsula towing a Boston Whaler, fishing all the way to Cabo. Alongside friends, he chased finning swordfish with harpoons. There was nothing he wouldn’t do in pursuit of fishing. That relentless drive carried over into big-game sportfishing, where he has become one of the most influential figures in the marlin world. Few—if any—have pursued giant marlin with the same intensity of body, spirit, and resources. His obsession with catching “grander” marlin is unmatched. Just as impressive is his commitment to conservation. Now four years into their global “World Tour,” which began in June 2022, Hsieh and his team operate two mothership programs in different regions, maximizing their ability to stay on the fish. The results are staggering: 445 blue and black marlin caught, including 185 over 500 pounds and 32 over 900 pounds (estimating). They’ve also deployed 50 satellite tags as part of their commitment to helping the IGFA study and protect billfish populations. Their tournament success is just as remarkable, including over $8 million in winnings at Cabo’s legendary Black & Blue Marlin Tournament. But as Hsieh himself might tell you—tournaments can sometimes get in the way of chasing thousand-pound fish. On today’s podcast, we dive into the mindset of one of the most driven and dedicated marlin fishermen to ever troll the open ocean.
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Episode 161: Jack Nicklaus - The Untold Outdoor Life of Jack Nicklaus
Mar 2701:01:35Tap to summarizeJack Nicklaus is widely regarded as an American hero—though it’s hard to measure a life defined by excellence, integrity, and generosity. He is far more than one of the greatest golfers in history; his impact reaches well beyond the game. What he and his wife Barbara Nicklaus have done for children’s healthcare is nothing short of extraordinary. Through the Nicklaus Children's Health Care Foundation, they have raised hundreds of millions of dollars to support pediatric care, benefiting Nicklaus Children's Hospital and a broad network of pediatric centers across South Florida. His contributions have been recognized at the highest levels. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by the President of the United States, as well as the Congressional Gold Medal. He is also a recipient of the Lincoln Medal, honoring both his philanthropic and entrepreneurial achievements. As the golf world reflects on the approaching 40th anniversary of his sixth green jacket at Augusta National Golf Club during The Masters Tournament, demand for his time—and his story—has never been greater. We’re especially grateful he chose to share it with us. Away from golf, fishing has played a meaningful role in his life—something many people don’t realize. Over the years, he has pursued a wide range of game fish around the world, including landing a remarkable 1,358-pound blue marlin off Australia’s Great Barrier Reef shortly before winning the Australian Open in 1978. From bonefish and Atlantic salmon to permit and beyond, he has spent decades exploring distant waters with a fly rod in hand. In this episode, we talk about that unforgettable day at Augusta nearly forty years ago, how he managed pressure at the highest level, his legacy in and beyond golf, his philanthropic work, and his lifelong passion for fishing. Thank you, Jack, for the humility, kindness, and generosity you continue to show—qualities that define not just a champion, but one of our nation’s enduring heroes.
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Episode 160: Capt. Jonathan "Stump" Hamilton - Homosassa Fishing Co.
Mar 1101:30:24Tap to summarizeCapt. Jonathan “Stump” Hamilton is a respected fishing guide based in Homosassa, known for his deep roots in Florida’s outdoor heritage and his expertise on the shallow flats of the state’s Nature Coast. A 7th-generation Floridian, Hamilton grew up immersed in the traditions of hunting and fishing, learning the waters around Homosassa from an early age and developing a lifelong connection to the region’s coastal ecosystems. With more than 15 years of professional guiding experience, Hamilton has built a reputation for technical sight-fishing and fly fishing in the crystal-clear flats of the Gulf Coast. He specializes in targeting tarpon on fly, while also guiding clients for species such as redfish, snook, speckled trout, and shallow-water grouper. Hamilton operates guided trips throughout the Homosassa area—from nearby grass flats to offshore waters—offering both fly-fishing and conventional tackle experiences. His charters are known for blending modern angling techniques with traditional “Old Florida” culture, including the well-known Homosassa shore lunch, where fresh-caught fish are prepared and enjoyed along the water. Beyond fishing, Hamilton remains active in the local guiding community. He has served with the Homosassa Guides Association, helping preserve the region’s long-standing guiding traditions. In addition to his work on the water, he also guides quail hunts during the winter months at a family preserve in Florida, reflecting his broader background as an outdoorsman. Known by the nickname “Stump,” Hamilton is recognized for his knowledge of tidal patterns, fish behavior, and the unique estuaries of Florida’s Nature Coast. His approach combines local tradition, conservation awareness, and a passion for sharing the outdoors with anglers of all skill levels.
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Episode 159: Capt. Nick LaBadie - Tailing Water Expeditions
Feb 2501:21:23Tap to summarizeCapt. Nick LaBadie is a Florida native through and through. Raised on the Gulf Coast just minutes from Boca Grande, he grew up fishing one of the most renowned tarpon fisheries in the world. From the time he could hold a rod, he was hooked—spending his childhood on the water and developing a deep-rooted passion for life on the water. After moving to the Florida Keys, Nick quickly became captivated by the technical challenges and endless opportunities of the flats. He poured himself into the art of sight fishing in shallow water, targeting a variety of species with both fly and spinning gear. The precision, patience, and strategy required to consistently succeed on the flats soon became his specialty. Deep down, though, Nick is a permit junkie—and a highly accomplished one at that. His passion for chasing these notoriously challenging fish has translated into tournament success, including winning the IGFA Permit Tournament in 2020 alongside guide Brandon Cyr, the March Merkin in 2024 with angler Rob Dougherty, and the Del Brown Permit Tournament in 2025 with angler Kat Vallilee. These victories reflect not only his dedication to the species, but also his ability to perform at the highest level under pressure. Since 2012, Nick has guided anglers throughout the flats and backcountry waters of Key West and the Lower Keys. From Big Pine Key to the Marquesas Keys, he has spent countless hours exploring and refining techniques that consistently put clients in position for success.
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Episode 158: Andy & Nicky - Fishing Q&A #2
Feb 1301:09:17Tap to summarizeOn today’s podcast, we answer a variety of listener-submitted questions, including: our favorite hooks for adult and baby tarpon, the moon phases we prefer for migrating tarpon, our most memorable stories from Alaska, whether the Florida Keys are getting too crowded, and practice tips for preparing for a saltwater fly fishing trip—plus a lot more. These episodes are a lot of fun for us to record, so if you enjoy them, let us know and we’ll be sure to do more! Have a question you’d like us to answer in a future Q&A episode? Email us at Nicky@millhousepodcast.com or DM us on social. Hope you enjoy!
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Episode 157: RJ Boyle - South Florida Swordfishing
Jan 2801:35:21Tap to summarizeRJ Boyle is a legendary figure in the South Florida sportfishing world, based in Boca Raton, Florida. Born and raised in the area, Boyle grew up on the water, developing a deep connection to the ocean that would shape his life and career. Over the years, he has earned a reputation as one of the pioneers of daytime swordfishing in South Florida, helping transform what was once considered a nighttime-only pursuit into a highly refined and widely practiced technique. Building on the groundbreaking work of Vic Gaspeny and Richard and Scott Stanczyk—the true innovators of daytime swordfishing in Islamorada—Boyle adapted and applied those methods to the waters off Boca Raton and Hillsboro Inlet. Through decades of experimentation, innovation, and relentless time offshore, he has caught thousands of swordfish, including many giants weighing several hundred pounds, earning widespread respect among anglers around the world. Standing 6-foot-4 with a larger-than-life presence, Boyle’s path to fishing fame has been anything but ordinary. Before becoming a full-time angler, he spent time as a minor league baseball pitcher, an experience that helped shape his discipline and drive. His creativity carries into his work today as an artist, entrepreneur, and educator. He is the owner of RJ Boyle Studio in Lighthouse Point, a one-of-a-kind space that blends a tackle shop, art gallery, and showcase for swordfish mounts and marine-inspired artwork. In addition to running charters and guiding anglers offshore, Boyle is deeply passionate about teaching—hosting swordfishing clinics and sharing hard-earned knowledge through reports, writing, and hands-on instruction. Above all, the work Boyle is most proud of is his charity, Mission Fishing, which takes children with special needs and disabilities fishing, providing families with unforgettable marine experiences and lifelong memories. RJ Boyle is one of the most incredible people we have ever met and a true inspiration. We hope you enjoy this podcast as much as we did.
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Episode 156: Capt. Shawn McKay - For the Love of Permit
Jan 1401:11:49Tap to summarizeBorn and raised in Knoxville, Tennessee, Shawn McKay has been fishing ever since he could hold a rod. At just 10 years old, he picked up a fly rod and hasn’t put it down since. Shawn honed his skills on his home waters of the South Holston and the Clinch River, developing a deep appreciation for technical fishing and the art of reading water at a young age. Throughout high school and college, Shawn spent his summers guiding on the Henry’s Fork and Snake River in Idaho, fully immersing himself in the western trout scene. These formative years sharpened his instincts as an angler and guide while instilling a strong work ethic and attention to detail. After college, Shawn hit the road and traveled south to the Florida Keys in search of a more stable career as a skiff guide. His unmatched drive and dedication quickly helped him establish a notable reputation in the highly competitive world of permit, tarpon, and bonefishing. For having only a handful of years on the flats, his skill level and knowledge are remarkable. Shawn’s rapid rise was highlighted by a victory alongside renowned permit angler and guide “Sandflea” at the 2024 IGFA Permit Invitational, following a second place in 2023 and later in 2025. It was a pleasure to sit down and record a podcast with Shawn, as he truly represents the new generation of flats guides in the Florida Keys—already having earned a respected name for himself in one of the most technical and history-rich fisheries in the world.
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