When photos popped up on social media of bass legend, Mike Iaconelli with a tricked out Hobie PA14 on his pimped out tournament truck, the kayak fishing community went berserk. Iaconelli is one of the most famous and infamous anglers in the world, known for clutch wins on the BASS trail and over the top theatrics on the water. Is he jumping ship? We caught up with Ike between tournaments. Turns out he’s been a paddle angler for years, and he’s got huge plans for his future in the sport.
Kayak Angler: Tell us your history with kayak fishing.
Mike Iaconelli:Growing up in southern New Jersey, I fished anywhere, any way I could. Many of my early childhood experiences involved fishing from a canoe. Fifteen years ago I purchased my first kayak because it is easy to transport and I can quietly paddle into inaccessible areas. I really fell in love with the up close and personal nature of hunting, chasing and landing a fish.
Kayak Angler: What is your favorite kayak fishing story?
Mike Iaconelli: Funny thing, this story doesn’t feature bass. Three years ago I was fishing a little hidden gem close to home. After three hours and three small bass, I switched to a Rapala Husky Jerk and moved to a large flat. About 10 casts in, my line jumped and I hooked up with a massive fish. Following a 15-minute fight that included long runs, chaotic sleigh rides and a brief tangle with a brush pile, I finally put my hand on one of the largest carp I have ever caught.
[ Also Read: Best Bass Fishing Baits And Lures: Spinnerbaits ]
Kayak Angler: How does kayak fishing complement the other fishing you do?
Mike Iaconelli: Kayak fishing fills a huge niche in my life. Outside of tournament fishing, I’m still a huge fish head. When I’m fun fishing or filming for my new web series, Going Ike, I love to access remote places that I can’t get to in my bass boat. The kayak also offers a breath of fresh air. I can leave the big bass boat at home and challenge the fish on their level. The kayak reminds me why I love the sport.
Kayak Angler: How do you look forward to using your kayak?
Mike Iaconelli: I’m so excited about my future in kayak fishing. With new gear and a new kayak I feel like a kid in a candy store. One of the most exciting things is that I am still the student. My Hobie PA14 has a pedal drive, Power-Pole Micro, Lowrance HDS and other bells and whistles that I’ve only had on a big boat before. I’m excited about the growing community of kayak anglers that are exposing a new generation of anglers to the sport. I’m also excited about the growth of kayak bass tournaments. Who knows, I may even enter a few kayak tournaments. Mostly, I’m excited about sharing this new adventure with my family.
This article was first published in the Early Summer 2016 issue of Kayak Angler Magazine. Subscribe to Kayak Angler Magazine’s print and digital editions, or browse the archives.
