🦪 Oyster season on the Mississippi Gulf Coast is finally showing signs of a real comeback — and we brought the experts into the studio to explain exactly how it’s happening. In this episode of Brown Water Banter, we’re joined by Jason Rider, Shellfish Bureau Director, and Eric Broussard, Deputy Director Office of Marine Fisheries with the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources. They break down the science, history, and management behind Mississippi’s oyster reefs and what it takes to responsibly reopen oyster season. 🌊 How Mississippi oyster reefs declined and what recovery actually looks like📊 The difference between historic harvest numbers and today’s reality⚖️ How DMR assesses reefs and decides when seasons open or close🦪 On-bottom harvesting vs off-bottom aquaculture explained🌱 Why oysters are critical for water quality, fish habitat, and coastal protection This episode pulls back the curtain on oyster management — from diver reef assessments to harvest limits — and explains why oyster recovery is a long game that affects far more than what ends up on your plate. Watch the full episode now on YouTube ⬇️ https://youtube.com/live/2QJxp6lBKZg?feature=share Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch Here.  Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter

Comedian David Jolly joins Brown Water Banter live in Biloxi for a wild conversation about comedy, sobriety, and betting on yourself. David breaks down his grind from Orlando open mics to the East Coast comedy circuit, landing in Austin, and becoming part of the Kill Tony and Comedy Mothership scene. We get into quitting whiskey to take comedy seriously, the freedom of speech comeback in stand-up, and how his viral DeAndre Holms sketches took off online. This episode goes everywhere — from bombing for chicken wings to performing on some of the biggest comedy stages in the country. If you like raw conversations, unfiltered comedy, and stories about chasing the shot when it finally shows up, this one’s for you. 🎙️ Listen now and enjoy the ride. Watch the full episode now on YouTube ⬇️ https://www.youtube.com/live/PyOaGfUBZGE Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch Here.  Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter

In this episode of Brown Water Banter, we’re joined in studio by Joel Davis, Nicole Nezat, and Biloxi City Councilman Wayne Gray to break down the inaugural Christmas on the Avenue event and what it means for Downtown Biloxi. Representative Scott Delano also joins us.  We cover how the idea came together, the city coordination behind the scenes, and why this event is a major step toward bringing more foot traffic, tourism, and holiday energy to Howard Avenue. 🎄 Event Highlights🎶 Live music and multiple entertainment stages💡 Grand Lighting of Howard Avenue with 150 sponsored Christmas trees❄️ Snow falling in Downtown Biloxi🎅 Santa Claus Parade🍻 Santa Crawl with participating local businesses🏠 Live Christmas trees donated to families in need after the event 📅 December 18–20📍 Howard Avenue, Downtown Biloxi This episode dives into the vision, the logistics, and the long-term goal of turning Christmas on the Avenue into a signature Gulf Coast holiday tradition. Watch the full episode now on YouTube ⬇️ https://youtube.com/live/6pepJ-upSF4?feature=share Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch Here.  Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter

In this episode of Brown Water Banter, we sit down with the men behind the Inaugural Fishing for Toys Tournament, a Gulf Coast charity event that was born out of a men’s Bible study called Fishers of Men. What started as a small group of men gathering to study scripture and support one another grew into something much bigger — an outreach focused on serving families and kids in need during the Christmas season. Through Fishers of Men, the group recognized a need in the community and partnered with Pascagoula Police Department to help provide toys, meals, and hope to local families. We talk about how the Bible study began, how it evolved into an outreach ministry, and how the Fishing for Toys tournament became a natural extension of their mission to serve others. The conversation also dives into community policing, mentorship, faith, and the powerful impact that men stepping up together can have on families and neighborhoods. This episode is a reminder that real change often starts small — with men willing to check their egos at the door, show up consistently, and put faith into action. Watch the full episode now on YouTube ⬇️ https://youtube.com/live/SPF78fVZh6M Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch Here.  Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter

Derek from Marsh Town Mafia Charters joins us to break down the world of nighttime flounder gigging on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. He talks about growing up on the water, what pushed him to finally get his captain’s license, and how he built a gigging-only charter business.  We cover how a gigging trip actually works, what the lights reveal in the marsh, the species you see after dark, and why conditions like tide and wind make each night different. Derek also shares stories from clients, lessons learned, and what keeps him fired up to run trips after long shifts at the fire department. Watch the full episode now on YouTube ⬇️ https://youtu.be/LrCcJU7wm_Q Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch Here.  Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter  

In this episode, we’re joined by Charmaine Schmermund and Francesca Linthicum from the Department of Marine Resources , who leads the Mississippi Seafood Marketing Program, to break down how the Coast’s most iconic industry is protected and promoted. We cover how the agency promotes local harvesters, supports Coast culture, and educates the public through statewide outreach events. 🦐🌊 They break down the Mississippi Seafood labeling law, the Mississippi Seafood Cook-Off, and why it matters for both restaurants and consumers. We also talk about DMR’s publications, including the Marine Information Calendar that locals grab as soon as it hits the shelves. 📅 The crew explains how the photo contest works, how the public helps shape the calendar, and how those images end up across DMR’s website and materials. They also touch on upcoming workshops, finfish research, and resources available to anglers, teachers, and businesses. A great overview of how DMR works behind the scenes to support seafood, conservation, and the Gulf Coast community. 🎣 Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch Here.  Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter

🎖️ March For Vets 2025 is returning to the Coast, and organizer Lucas Tosh joins the show on Veterans Day to explain how the march began, why it matters, and what this year's event will look like. 👟 Lucas describes how the idea for the march first came up during a conversation with his wife Megan and their friend Sarah at Government Street Grocery.🪖 He talks about why raising awareness for veterans is important and how the event has grown each year.📅 He lays out the 2025 route from Pass Christian Harbor to Government Street Grocery in Ocean Springs and what participants can expect along the way.🎤 He discusses the purpose behind the walk and the recognition many local veterans still don’t receive. Lucas shares how the march has evolved and why community support makes such a difference. Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch Here.  Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter

In this episode, we sit down with Eric from Lost Pizza Co. in Ocean Springs to talk about more than just great food. We get into how the restaurant has become a true part of the community — hiring local kids, supporting local schools, and building a family atmosphere that goes way beyond the dining room. We also discuss an important fundraiser happening for Jacob, a former employee who was seriously injured in an accident. On November 18th, Lost Pizza Co. is donating 100% of the entire day’s sales (dine-in, takeout, and delivery) to help support Jacob and his family with medical and travel expenses. This is a chance for the Gulf Coast to show what community really looks like. 💙 Eric also shares the story behind their yearly yearbook signing event, which started when a local student’s book came home without a single signature. Lost Pizza stepped in, the community rallied, and every page was filled. Moments like that are why this place matters to so many. We do taste testing in the studio, talk about menu favorites, the story of how Lost Pizza began, and how they’ve stayed committed to Ocean Springs since day one — through the good times and the tough, including opening just before COVID. 🍕🔥 ❤️ FUNDRAISER INFO:On November 18, Lost Pizza Ocean Springs is donating 100% of ALL sales to support Jacob’s recovery.Stop in, order takeout, or delivery — it all counts. Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch Here.  Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter

🔥 Smokin’ the Coast is back — and it’s more than just a barbecue competition. In this episode, we sit down with members of the Neptune Trident Foundation to talk about how this event raises money for disaster relief and helping families right here on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. We get into:🍖 How championship & backyard BBQ teams come together for the cause🚛 The wild story of hauling supplies into North Carolina after the floods🎭 The connection between Neptune’s Mardi Gras traditions and community service👧 Why Friday night’s Trunk-or-Treat is becoming a new family favorite🏆 What teams can expect in this year’s cook-off competition This is Gulf Coast community showing up for each other. Watch the full episode now ⬇️ https://youtube.com/live/xCe-EW_s9e4?feature=share Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch Here.  Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter  

In this episode, we sit down with Randy Wilson and Jake Pettigrew from the Office of Coastal Resources  Management. 🌾🌊 Their team works to protect and restore some of the most unique habitats along the Mississippi Gulf Coast — from longleaf pine savannas to marshlands and barrier islands. 🏝️ Randy and Jake break down how prescribed fire🔥, habitat thinning, and careful stewardship help maintain healthy land and prevent dangerous wildfires. They also explain how coastal preserve lands are acquired, what public access looks like, and how people can get out and enjoy these spaces through hiking, hunting, and paddling. 🚶‍♂️🦆🚣‍♀️ We talk Deer Island, trail management, the history behind fire suppression, Deepwater Horizon funding, and why restoring these ecosystems matters for wildlife, fisheries, and everyone who enjoys the outdoors. 🐟🌿 Watch the full episode now ⬇️ https://youtube.com/live/MYFLt9-UKcg?feature=share Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch Here.  Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter  

Captain Joey Cates of Heavy Metal Charters joins us in the studio for a wide-open conversation about life on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, building a charter business from scratch, and bringing a heavy metal attitude to the world of fishing. We talk back-bay roots, kayaks, oyster tours with Two Crackers Oysters, and the unpredictable ride of charter life in Biloxi. If you enjoy Gulf Coast culture, outdoors, fishing, and stories from the water, this episode delivers from start to finish. Watch the full episode on YouTube now ⬇️ https://youtube.com/live/EagSaOJ_kLI?feature=share Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch Here.  Watch the full episode on YouTube: Here Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter

Michael and Stephanie Paoletti from Butcher Baker join us to talk about their journey from catering and Sweet Enchantments to running a modern restaurant and lounge in Midtown Ocean Springs. They share how their idea evolved over five years, how local support fuels their growth, and why The Butcher Baker is more than just a name — it’s a lifestyle built on creativity, community, and good food. Watch the full episode on YouTube now ⬇️ https://youtube.com/live/nY55pZJ_FcE?feature=share Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch Here.  Watch the full episode on YouTube: Here Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter

Nate McGregor and Jonathan from the Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve join us to talk duck hunting, teal season, and how their team is using drones, AI, and hunter surveys to protect Mississippi’s marshland habitats. From waterfowl migration to new conservation tech, this episode connects the dots between hunting and habitat science. Watch the full episode on YouTube now ⬇️ https://youtube.com/live/EqrxGdulf-A?feature=share Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch Here.  Watch the full episode on YouTube: Here Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter

Ricky Mathews—host of The Ricky Mathews Show and SuperTalk Outdoors—joins us to break down the corporate takeover of local media. As former president and publisher of three Gulf Coast newspapers (📰 The Sun Herald, 📰 The Press-Register, and 📰 The Times-Picayune), Ricky brings decades of experience and a front-row seat to the collapse of traditional journalism. We cover:🏢 The shift from Knight Ridder to McClatchy ownership📱 The iPhone & Facebook’s disruption of newspapers🌪️ Katrina’s impact on Mississippi newsrooms🤖 Why AI might reshape jobs faster than we realize This conversation asks the big question: Can local voices survive in a corporate media world? Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch Here.  Watch the full episode on YouTube: Here Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter

United in Blue is bringing the Coast together for A Night in Blue at the IP Casino on October 18 — an evening of music, auctions, and community support dedicated to the families of fallen first responders. In this episode, we talk with Lynn Bentz and Dan Cuevas about:👮‍♂️ Why this mission is personal for those in law enforcement💔 The challenges families face after losing a loved one in the line of duty🎶 How the gala blends music, food, and fundraising into one powerful night🙌 The many ways the community can get involved, from tickets to sponsorships 📍 October 18 | IP Casino, Biloxi, MS 🎶 This conversation goes beyond the uniform — it’s about honoring heroes, lifting up families, and uniting Mississippi in support. Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch Here.  Watch the full episode on YouTube: Here Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter

Smokin’ the Sip BBQ Festival is putting Moss Point on the map as Mississippi’s premier barbecue event. 🍖 We sit down with Josh Borden, president of the Moss Point Main Street Association, to talk about how the event came together and what you can expect this year:✨ $25 tasting armbands with 20+ BBQ teams🥃 VIP experience with bourbon tastings, cigars, and private bar access🎶 Live music from Otis Carter, Titus Gillard Blues Power Band, Grits & Greens, and more👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly fun with mascots, kids’ activities, and fireworks 📅 Saturday, October 4, 2025 | ⏰ 11 AM – 8 PM📍 Moss Point Riverfront Park Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch Here.  Watch the full episode on YouTube: Here Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter This one’s all about barbecue, bourbon, blues, and community spirit on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

From backyard experiments with spotlights to a business that changed the way the Gulf Coast flounders—Coastal Floundering Lights is a story of innovation, grit, and pure love for the outdoors. In this episode, the crew shares how they went from childhood friends tinkering in sheds to building some of the most trusted rigs in night fishing. Learn how they perfected underwater LED lights, why their gear is built to last, and the community that grew around their brand. ✨ Don’t miss this episode—it’s one that every Gulf Coast fisherman will relate to! 🔥 Watch the full episode now on YouTube! Here Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch Here.  Watch the full episode on YouTube: Here Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter

🏁 Racing, family, and Gulf Coast tradition — that’s the story of Mitchell’s Motorplex. George Mitchell joins us alongside his son Justin and race director Derek “Shrek” Callender to share how they revived the dirt track, what it takes to keep it running, and why racing is more than just fast cars — it’s about community. From the old Highway 67 track to today’s family-friendly events in Vestry, this episode captures the passion that keeps Gulf Coast racing alive. 🔥 Watch the full episode now on YouTube! Here Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch here.  Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/tui_FINClDE?feature=share Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter

We’re back with Jason Saucier from the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources to talk all things shrimp and crab! Jason gives us the latest update on Mississippi’s crab fishery, explains the rules on legal catches, and shares how new sonar technology is helping remove hundreds of derelict crab traps from our waters. 🦐 We also dive into shrimp season, why brown shrimp moved offshore this year, and what to expect from the white shrimp moving in this fall. ♻️ Plus, we cover the Monofilament Recycling Program — a Gulf-wide initiative to keep fishing line out of our bays and off our beaches. From crabbers to recreational anglers, this episode has something for everyone who loves our Gulf Coast waters. 🥃 Conversations over bourbon… this is why we call it Brown Water Banter. Watch the full episode on YouTube: Here Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch here.  Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/tui_FINClDE?feature=share Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter

In episode 319, we sit down with 🎙️ Brandon Boudreaux, Executive Director of the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum in Biloxi, MS. From working as a deckhand at just 15 years old ⚓ to now leading the museum, Brandon shares his incredible journey and deep family ties to the Gulf Coast’s maritime heritage. We dive into the history of Biloxi as the seafood capital of the world 🦪, the cultural gumbo that makes the Coast unique 🌎, and the museum’s role in keeping those stories alive 📖. Brandon also talks about surviving Katrina 🌊, rebuilding the museum 🏛️, and how the schooners continue to serve as living history ⛵. If you love Gulf Coast history, seafood culture, or just want to hear stories that connect generations, this is an episode you don’t want to miss 🎧 Also big thanks to Southern Magnolia Smiles, Forever Young Men's and Women Health, and Taylor and Cox Law Firm,  for the support!  Want to be a part of the pelican gang? Check out our merch here.  Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/tui_FINClDE?feature=share Download our free app:Apple: HereAndroid: Here All our links: https://linktr.ee/brownwaterbanter