Ben Ricks is a biologist with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and co-host of the "Better Fishing with Two Bald Biologists" podcast, where he shares fisheries research and angling tips. An avid fisherman and hunter from a young age, he grew up in eastern North Carolina, influenced by his father and grandfathers, who fished and hunted out of passion and necessity. With degrees from NC State and Auburn, Ben’s career began with a drive to catch more fish, evolving into a commitment to conservation and stewardship. He’s a devoted father to his 5-year-old daughter, introducing her to the outdoors through fishing and hunting on their family farm, while prioritizing her faith in Jesus as her most important legacy. Ben blends his love for nature with a deep Christian faith, seeing God in creation and aiming to pass down both traditions to the next generation.

TOPICS

Introduction & Ben’s Outdoor Roots

1:00 - Meet Ben Ricks: Jacob introduces Ben, a biologist and podcast co-host.

2:57 - Fishing Spark: Ben loved fishing as a kid. He studied biology to catch more.

12:29 - Family Tradition: Ben hunted and fished with his dad and granddads.

Fishing Tips & Insights

3:58 - School & Research: Ben studied at NC State and Auburn. He researched bass tournaments.

6:00 - Fish Care: Ben says temperature affects fish survival. Handling adds stress.

9:54 - Hook Rules: Ben explains barbless hooks reduce harm. They’re trickier to use.

38:42 - Dream Catches: Ben fished peacock bass in South America. He wants bluefin tuna next.

Faith, Family & Kids Outdoors

14:03 - Daughter’s Start: Ben takes his 5-year-old fishing and hunting. He keeps it fun.

19:04 - Hunting Together: Ben and his daughter let a buck walk. They shot a doe.

23:13 - Teaching Faith: Ben’s daughter loves Jesus. He credits his wife too.

26:18 - God in Nature: Ben sees God in outdoor blessings. Stewardship matters.

31:23 - Dad’s Role: Ben says faith is a dad’s key legacy. Nothing tops it.

Biology & NC Outdoors

29:48 - Faith at Work: Ben’s faith fits his biology job. It’s not loud in his podcast.

43:09 - Fish Safety: Ben notes toxins like mercury in some waters. Check NC Health site.

47:54 - Storm Update: Ben says trout stocking took a hit. It’s recovering.

55:02 - Snorkeling Spots: Ben compares coasts. He suggests Lake Phelps.

Faith, Fatherhood & Wrap-Up

1:01:31 - Top Verse: Ben picks "Seek first the kingdom of God." It guides him.

1:02:50 - Faith Fix: Ben uses the verse to reset. It simplifies life.

1:04:31 - Legacy Goal: Ben wants his daughter to carry faith forward. Like his family did.

Shop: https://www.greatoutdoorspodcast.com/category/all-products

Ben Ricks’ Socials:

Facebook NC Wildlife Resources Commission: https://www.facebook.com/ncwildliferesourcescommission

Facebook Ricks Brothers Outdoors: https://www.facebook.com/ricksbrothersoutdoors1

Website: https://www.ncwildlife.gov/connect/two-bald-biologists-podcast