Teaching the world to
fish big!
Fishful Thinker shares unconventional concepts and techniques to increase your angling success in a light-hearted, down-to-earth format.
Chad LaChance · the Fishful Thinker
Created for Chad LaChance – an angler, teacher, and friend whose spirit lives in every cast. 1971–2025.
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New videos posted regularly from our 18 years of archives — tips, techniques, and destinations straight from the water. These videos open in YouTube – please subscribe so you never miss a cast and help keep Chad's dream alive!
Featured Video
Motivation to Fish!
Playlist Tips & Technique
Casting and Control Fundamentals
Playlist We All Gotta Eat!
How We Cook Fish and Game
Podcast
Stories from the Water
Angling education, back story, and the kind of details that actually make you a better fisherman. Hosted by Chad LaChance — the original Fishful Thinker.
Merch
Wear the Mindset
Hats, tees, hoodies, and gear built for people who'd rather be on the water. Quality that holds up like a good knot.
Shop MerchRecipes
From the Water to the Table
Chad believed the best part of a great catch or hunt was sharing the meal. Simple, delicious recipes for the fish and game you bring home.
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"Confidence catches fish."
— Chad LaChance
About
Fishful Thinker is a state of mind, pure and simple.
Founded by Chad LaChance, the show ran for 29 seasons and earned a reputation for doing things differently. No ego. No manufactured drama. Just honest fishing and the kind of conversations you only have when the line's in the water.
Chad passed away in 2025. The people who loved him most are keeping his vision alive because that's what he would've wanted. And Ranger would've insisted.