On May 28, 2008, Ronald Bruch interviewed Vern and Karla Gebhart for the People of the Sturgeon: Wisconsin's Love Affair with an Ancient Fish project. Vern Gebhart is a longtime sturgeon spearer and decoy carver from Calumet County, Wisconsin, where his family has been involved in sturgeon fishing for generations. The interview begins with Vern recounting his family's history in sturgeon fishing, starting with his grandfather, who fished before regulations were established, and continuing with his father, who began fishing in the late 1930s and 1940s. Vern shares memories of his father and the community's tradition of making their own spears and shanties, emphasizing the self-sufficiency and craftsmanship passed down through generations. He describes the evolution of spear-making techniques, highlighting the use of dump rake tines for their durability and effectiveness. The discussion covers the importance of sturgeon spearing in Vern's family, noting that his mother also participated in spearing, a practice that was not uncommon among women in the community. Vern reflects on the changes in technology and methods over the years, including the transition from manual ice chiseling to using ice saws and the impact of modern equipment like underwater cameras on the sport. The Gebharts talk about their experiences on Lake Winnebago, the traditional spots for spearing, and the changes in the lake's conditions over time. Vern shares anecdotes about memorable spearing events, including encounters with large sturgeons and close calls on the ice. The interview also touches on the camaraderie and social aspects of the spearing community, as well as the challenges posed by increasing commercialization and the influx of new participants. Vern also discusses his hobby of decoy carving, which he began in 1999. He describes the process of making decoys, the different types of wood he uses, and the satisfaction of creating something functional and aesthetically pleasing.