John Godwin, known for his role in the immensely popular TV show "Duck Dynasty," has captivated audiences for years with his down-to-earth personality and comedic timing. While many recognize him for his contributions to the Duck Commander empire, Godwin's passions extend far beyond duck calls and hunting. This article explores Godwin's journey, highlighting his developing love for catfishing and his commitment to a healthier lifestyle.
From Ducks to Crappie to Catfish: An Angler's Evolution
Godwin's journey into the world of fishing began with crappie, a pursuit he embraced with enthusiasm, becoming a prostaffer for B'n'M Poles and SeaArk Boats. However, a new passion began to emerge: catfishing. Living just 50 minutes from Vicksburg, MS, an area renowned for its catfish fishery, Godwin was eager to explore this new angling frontier.
Despite a busy schedule filled with speaking engagements and building duck calls, Godwin yearned for more time on the water. His natural charisma has made him a popular figure at outdoor events, but it was his experiences fishing with some of the best catfisherman in the industry that truly ignited his passion.
Learning from the Best: Godwin's Catfishing Education
Godwin's first foray into catfishing was an adventure with Bill Dance and George Young Jr. on the Mississippi River. They taught him the technique of bumping, a method that resonated with Godwin's active nature. Unlike traditional bank fishing with a rod in a forked stick, bumping involved movement, making it feel more like hunting than fishing.
His initial success led him to participate in Young's Mississippi River Monsters (MRM) catfish tournament in September 2018. He teamed up with Roy Harkness at the 2019 King Kat tournament at Helena-West Helena, AR.
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Godwin quickly learned that catfishing required a different approach than crappie fishing. He had to break his habit of setting the hook at every thump. He also struggled initially with finding the bottom, often letting out too much line. He eventually got a feel for it and could maintain the bottom.
Tournament Success: Godwin Makes a Splash in the Catfishing World
In the 2018 MRM tournament, Godwin joined B'n'M prostaffers Roy Harkness and Don Sweat in Memphis. The all-B'n'M team achieved an impressive 4th place finish with a total weight of 122.16 pounds. The highlight of the tournament was Godwin's personal best: a 45-pound blue catfish.
"Catching my personal best was awesome," Godwin exclaimed. "I would reel but couldn’t gain any line. I was shaking like I saw a big bunch of ducks coming in the hole or watching a big buck deer. It was an unreal experience to pull up to that weigh-in stage with the Bass Pro Pyramid in the back ground. I felt I I’d hit the big time! I guess you could say it got me and I want some more of it."
Despite other obligations preventing him from competing in the 2019 MRM, Godwin continued his tournament streak. He and Harkness finished 4th in the August 2019 Bass Pro Shops-Cabela's King Kat Tournament at Helena-West Helena, AR.
A Student of the Sport: Godwin's Thirst for Knowledge
Godwin views every fishing trip as a learning opportunity. "I’m like a sponge fishing with these guys," he explained. "I am watching every move and listening to every word. There is a lot to learn." He recognizes that finding the big cats is only part of the battle; mastering the art of bait is equally crucial. Throwing a net for shad and locating skipjack require specialized knowledge and skills.
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Godwin embraces the camaraderie and excitement of catfish tournament fishing. He appreciates the atmosphere, the weigh-in stage, and the anticipation of competing against other anglers. He likened the experience to "a kid on Christmas morning," eager to learn new techniques and strategies from fellow fishermen.
More Than Fishing: Lifestyle Changes and Staying Active
Beyond his passion for fishing, Godwin is also committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Alongside his "Duck Dynasty" co-stars, including Si Robertson, Godwin understands the importance of diet and fitness.
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