Old Gods of Appalachia – Episode 81: "Gone Fishing"

Release Date: May 8, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 81, titled "Gone Fishing," of the horror-anthology podcast Old Gods of Appalachia, listeners are immersed in a chilling narrative set in the ominous mountains of central Appalachia. This episode delves into themes of isolation, supernatural elements, and the haunting legacy of past traumas, all woven into the lives of the protagonists, Chip Collins and his friend Gary Jesse.

Setting the Scene: Mavisdale, Virginia, 1983

The story unfolds in the small, secluded town of Mavisdale, Virginia, during the early spring of 1983. The Appalachian landscape is depicted with vivid detail—dense woods, winding creeks, and the ever-present fog that cloaks the mountains, contributing to an atmosphere thick with suspense and foreboding.

Character Profiles

• Chip Collins: A Vietnam War veteran grappling with the scars of his past, both visible and invisible. He inherits a farmhouse and grapples with his tumultuous personal life, including a strained marriage and the responsibilities of fatherhood.

• Gary Jesse: A close friend of Chip’s, Gary is a widowed social worker dedicated to helping vulnerable children in Hazell County. His life is marked by tragedy, including the mysterious disappearance of his neighbor Ada Spivey and the symbolic presence of his cat, Simon.

• Mac: Chip’s loyal and somewhat enigmatic dog, whose behavior hints at a deeper, possibly supernatural nature.

Plot Overview

The episode begins with Chip Collins enjoying a quiet morning on his inherited farmhouse, reflecting on his past and the strict farming methods taught by his Aunt Betty. His peaceful solitude is interrupted by the arrival of his old friend Gary Jesse, who brings with him an invitation to join a fishing trip—a gesture of camaraderie and an attempt to rekindle their friendship amidst personal struggles.

As Chip and Gary set out for their fishing excursion along Chaplin's Creek, the narrative builds tension through descriptive passages of the natural environment and the subtle interactions between the characters and their pets. The serenity of the morning is shattered by an unsettling encounter with a mysterious stranger clad in an impeccable black suit. This apparition introduces an element of the supernatural, hinting at an impending malevolent presence.

Key Scenes and Developments

1. Reunion and Preparation ([03:13] - [10:45]):

   • Chip’s Return: Chip reconciles with Gary, sharing their personal woes and the complexities of their lives.
   • Fishing Gear and Atmosphere: The men prepare their fishing equipment, setting the stage for the impending encounter.

2. Journey to Chaplin's Creek ([10:46] - [18:30]):

   • Nature’s Silence: Unusual stillness replaces the typical sounds of wildlife, creating an eerie backdrop.
   • Heightened Tension: Both men and their pets sense something amiss, illustrated by Mac’s defensive behavior and Simon’s sudden fear.

3. The Stranger’s Appearance ([18:31] - [25:00]):

   • Mysterious Figure: A man in a black suit emerges from the woods, his unnerving demeanor and cryptic speech foreshadowing darker events.
   • Supernatural Hint: The stranger’s presence and the subsequent silence suggest an otherworldly intervention, aligning with the podcast’s horror themes.

Climactic Encounter

The introduction of the stranger serves as the episode’s climax, leaving listeners on a cliffhanger. His cold, void-like eyes and the ominous phrasing of "Shall we parlay?" inject a sense of dread and anticipation, setting the stage for future developments in the series.

Themes and Insights

• Isolation and Community: The episode explores the tension between personal isolation and the bonds of friendship, highlighting how Chip and Gary navigate their interconnected yet solitary lives.

• Supernatural Intrusion: The stranger symbolizes the intrusion of ancient, dark forces into the protagonists' lives, a recurring motif in the Old Gods of Appalachia series.

• Past and Present: Chip’s war experiences and Gary’s tragic past intersect with the present-day mystery, suggesting that unresolved histories can summon darkness.

Notable Quotes

• Steve Schell ([03:13]):

  "Old gods of Appalachia is a horror anthology podcast and therefore may contain material not suitable for all audiences, so listener discretion is advised."

• Narrative Voice ([07:45]):

  "When the walls close in and the light gets swallowed and there ain't no that feels like home the ones you love turn into strangers..."

• Gary Jesse ([22:10]):

  "What say buddy? You ready to do some fishing?"

• Stranger ([24:50]):

  "Good morning, gentlemen. Shall we parlay?"

Conclusion and Implications

"Gone Fishing" effectively sets up a suspenseful and eerie storyline that promises to delve deeper into the enigmatic forces lurking within Appalachia. The episode masterfully balances character development with atmospheric storytelling, leaving listeners eager to uncover the mysteries that Chip and Gary will face. The introduction of the stranger hints at larger, possibly supernatural conflicts, aligning with the podcast’s overarching theme of ancient gods and dark secrets beneath the mountains.

Final Thoughts

Episode 81 of Old Gods of Appalachia exemplifies the series' ability to blend rich character backstories with a haunting setting, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with themes of loss, friendship, and the unknown. As the story progresses, listeners can anticipate further exploration of the Appalachian myths and the shadows that the old gods cast over the lives of those dwelling in their ancient hills.

Notable Mentions:

• Dedication: This episode is dedicated to the memory of the real-life Chip Collins, a Vietnam War veteran and survivor who inspired the story.

• Production Credits: Written by Cam Collins and performed by Steve Schell, with theme music by Landon Blood and outro music by John Charles Dwyer.

Old Gods of Appalachia continues to captivate its audience with immersive storytelling and atmospheric horror, solidifying its place in the genre of audio horror anthologies.