U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Fish of the Week! Podcast

In an era where podcasts have become a vibrant medium for storytelling and education, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has carved out a unique niche with its award-winning Fish of the Week! podcast, hosted by fish enthusiasts Katrina Liebich and Guy Eroh. Launched in January 2021, this weekly audio journey, accessible at https://www.fws.gov/fish-of-the-week-podcast, invites listeners to dive into the fascinating world of America’s fish, from the majestic to the obscure, fostering a deeper appreciation for aquatic biodiversity and conservation. With its blend of science, humor, and cultural storytelling, the podcast has garnered critical acclaim, including the 2022 “Best Podcast” award from the Government Social Media Association’s Golden Posts and a 2024 Anthem Award Bronze, cementing its place as a must-listen for anglers, conservationists, and curious minds alike. 

Each episode of Fish of the Week! introduces listeners to a different fish species, ranging from the iconic greenback cutthroat trout to the quirky opossum pipefish, a seahorse relative that resembles a “small, wet stick.” The podcast’s structure is both educational and engaging, weaving together biological insights, ecological context, and practical conservation tips. Hosts Liebich, a biologist with a Ph.D. from Michigan State University, and Eroh, an ecology and fisheries graduate from the University of Georgia, bring infectious enthusiasm and expertise to the mic. Their chemistry, described as a “mix of expertise with humor,” creates a welcoming atmosphere that demystifies complex science for a broad audience.

What sets Fish of the Week! apart is its commitment to showcasing the diversity of American ichthyofauna and the people connected to them. Guests, ranging from fish biologists and hatchery managers to tribal scientists and local anglers, provide multifaceted perspectives on how fish shape ecosystems, cultures, and economies. For instance, a March 2025 episode explored the greenback cutthroat trout, Colorado’s state fish, with experts Josh Homer and Chris Kennedy discussing its conservation challenges and historical significance. Another episode highlighted the smallmouth buffalo, debunking its misidentification as an invasive carp. These stories underscore the podcast’s mission to celebrate both common and rare species while addressing misconceptions and conservation needs.

The podcast also serves as a virtual tour of America’s waterways, guiding listeners from Alaska’s salmon-filled rivers to Florida’s mangrove-lined coasts. Seasons 2 through 5 function as an “audio almanac,” offering a week-by-week exploration of fish habitats, diets, and seasonal movements. This format not only educates but also inspires action, providing practical advice on how listeners can engage with and protect aquatic environments. Episodes often include fan mail segments, fostering a sense of community and encouraging listeners to share their own fish stories, further bridging the gap between science and public engagement.

With a global audience, Fish of the Week! has made significant waves. Its accessibility is enhanced by a library of episode transcripts in PDF form, ensuring inclusivity for all audiences. The podcast’s success reflects the USFWS’s broader mission to conserve fish, wildlife, and habitats for the benefit of the American people, aligning with initiatives like the National Fish Hatchery System, which distributed 223 million aquatic animals in 2024.

Ultimately, Fish of the Week! is more than a podcast—it’s a celebration of America’s aquatic heritage and a call to stewardship. By spotlighting the beauty and complexity of fish like the mountain whitefish or the bullhead catfish, Liebich and Eroh remind us that every finned friend has a story worth telling. Tune in every Monday for a new episode, until the podcast gets de-funded.