Ike Live Fishing Talk Show with Mike Iaconelli

Guys… if you haven’t heard the name Pake South yet — you will. 🎣 This 21-year-old rookie from Winnsboro, Texas just set a RECORD at Sam Rayburn with a 96-pound 15-ounce total… then turned around weeks later and won AGAIN at Lake Eufaula. Back to back Bassmaster Open wins. Records shattered. And one bait at the center of it all. The Urchin Bait. On this week’s Ike’s Bytes, Mike sits down with Pake South to go DEEP on the bait that’s taking over bass fishing in 2026 — and the guy who’s been using it to break records and turn heads at the highest level of the sport. Here’s what we’re breaking down: 🦔 Exactly how Pake rigs and fishes the urchin bait at the tournament level 🎯 Why this bait triggers strikes when NOTHING else will — especially on pressured fish 📡 How he combines it with forward-facing sonar to target suspended bass 🏆 The inside story on his record-breaking Open wins and what the urchin bait had to do with it 🧠 When to throw it, how to work it, and why most anglers are still sleeping on it 🎣 What the future of finesse fishing looks like from one of the sport’s brightest young stars No fluff. No spin. Just straight fishing knowledge from a 21-year-old who’s already figured something out that most pros are still trying to catch up to. This is Ike’s Bytes — and this one is a MUST WATCH. Let’s go. 🔥 👉 Learn more about the Berkley Lab Series: www.berkleyfishing.com

Ike's Bytes ft. Mark Sexton & The Berkley Lab Series Guys… this one's a GAME CHANGER. 🔬🎣 You've seen the buzz. You've heard the name. And if you watched the 2026 Bassmaster Classic, you KNOW the Berkley Lab Series soft plastics are the real deal. But what's actually going on inside that bait? How did the scientists at Berkley build something this different? That's exactly what Ike's Bytes is all about — and today Mike sits down with Berkley's own Mark Sexton to go DEEP into the science behind the most talked-about soft plastic release in years. Here's what we're breaking down: 🧪 What makes the Berkley Lab Series unlike ANYTHING else on the market 🎨 How they cracked the code on combining true color AND MaxScent — something nobody thought was possible 👃 The two-phase scent system — Rapid Release Slime PLUS long-term MaxScent dispersion — and why it triggers bites from even the most pressured fish 🎣 Why these baits were specifically engineered for the forward-facing sonar era ⚗️ The small-batch pouring process and why it matters for performance Real talk — this isn't just another bait drop. This is 40 years of Berkley science coming together in one bait. No spin. No fluff. Just straight science from the guys in the lab coats who built it. If you want to catch more fish — you need to understand what's in your hand. Let's go. 🔥 👉 Learn more about the Berkley Lab Series: www.berkley-fishing.com

Welcome back to Ike’s Bytes – The Science Behind the Bite. In this episode, Mike Iaconelli sits down with Berkley’s lead hard bait designer, Dan Spengler, to break down the science, engineering, and creativity behind designing hard baits that actually catch fish. From crankbaits to jerkbaits, we’re diving deep into what makes a bait perform the way it does — including action, buoyancy, bill design, weight distribution, and sound. If you’ve ever wondered: Why some hard baits get more bites than others How Berkley designs baits from concept to production What small details make a huge difference underwater This episode gives you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how hard baits are created and perfected. Whether you’re a weekend angler or a tournament fisherman, this episode will change the way you look at every hard bait in your tackle box. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes as Ike continues to explore the technology and science behind Berkley’s best products.

How Berkley fishing line is made. Mike Iaconelli investigates the science behind fishing tackle with Berkley labs. Ike sits down with one of the scientists responsible for developing Berkley’s fishing line, Chris Pitsilos, to break down the research, engineering, and testing that goes into creating some of the most trusted fishing line in the world. From strength and abrasion resistance to sensitivity and casting performance, we’re diving deep into the R&D process that turns raw materials into the line anglers rely on every day. If you’ve ever wondered: How fishing line is engineered * What makes certain lines stronger than others * How Berkley tests their line before it ever reaches the water * This episode gives you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look inside the Berkley innovation process. Subscribe for more episodes as Ike continues exploring the technology, science, and innovation behind Berkley baits and fishing gear.

This is not your typical Ike Live episode. Something BIG is happening — and for the first time ever, Ike and Beck are going live to share a major announcement that’s going to shake up the bass fishing world. No teasers. No leaks. Just one very real moment that will change everything. You’ll want to be here live, when it happens. Because if you’ve followed Mike’s journey — as an angler, as a personality, as a fan — this one’s going to hit different. 🎣 Come hang with Ike and Becky for what could be a turning point in the show’s history… and maybe the sport itself. #IkeLive #MikeIaconelli #FishingPodcast #Bassmaster #ProFishing #BigAnnouncement #BassFishingNews #FishingIndustry #IaconelliNews #FishingCommunity #LiveShow

It’s a special edition of Ike Live — and this time, we’re putting a live twist on our popular Manic Hat Monday! 🎩 For one night only, you can grab a limited-edition Ike trucker hat for just $14.99, and Mike Iaconelli will autograph it live on air — adding your name to make it fully personalized! 💥 While supplies last, Mike will: Sign each hat live during the show Write your name on the front panel Give you a personal shoutout as orders come in This is a LIVE ONLY drop — once the show ends, the offer disappears. And of course, in true Ike Live fashion, Mike and Becky will riff on whatever’s happening across the fishing world in between hat signings — from tournament talk to industry rumors and everything in between. 📦 Order link will be pinned in the chat and description. Just add your name in the notes at checkout and tune in for your shoutout! #IkeLive #MikeIaconelli #ManicHatMonday #FishingPodcast #BassFishing #FishingMerch #AutographedHat #TruckerHat #FishingGiveaway #LiveOnly #FishingCommunity

Mike Iaconelli sits down with Emil Wagner fresh off his Elite Qualifier victory at Lake Champlain, where Emil posted a record‑setting total of 69 lbs, 2 oz. In this episode, Emil opens up about his approach, the grind, and how that win fits into his bigger goals in pro bass fishing. They also dive into: Emil’s unique path in the sport Strategy, mindset, and key adjustments that make winners Challenges and realities of life on tour Thoughts on gear, tech, and where competitive bass fishing is headed From win stories to behind-the-scenes struggles — this is an episode that bridges inspiration and raw honesty.

In this episode, we're tackling the massive news shaking the bass fishing world: the new BASSMASTER rules on Forward-Facing Sonar (FFS). Join the discussion as we break down the controversial decision to split the 2026 Bassmaster Elite Series season, with some tournaments allowing FFS and others banning it completely. We'll reveal which tournaments are FFS-free, including Lake Champlain and Santee Cooper, and which ones will still allow it, like the St. Lawrence River and Lake Murray. This change has huge implications for professional anglers. We also cover the latest retirements from two icons of the sport, Skeet Reese and Bernie Schultz, and discuss their legendary careers. Plus, we dive deep into the angler cuts from both the Bassmaster Elites and the MLF Bass Pro Tour, listing the pros who didn't requalify and debating what's next for them in the world of tournament bass fishing. Whether you're for or against the FFS ban, this is a must-watch conversation for every bass fishing fan. We share our candid opinions and want to hear yours in the comments! #BassFishing #ForwardFacingSonar #Bassmaster #MLF #Fishing #TournamentFishing #BassmasterElites

The Champions of the 10th annual Ike Foundation Pro-Am drove home with a brand new Bass Cat Bobcat bass boat. Learn how they did it (and how you might be able to do it next year!) Join us for an insightful Ike Live episode "At The Bar" as we dive into a busy and eventful week. This show, brought to you by Abu Garcia and Tackle Warehouse, covers everything from fishing tournament victories to the behind-the-scenes world of bass fishing. In this Ike Live (from the bar) episode, Mike & Becky Iaconelli discuss: * The Ike Foundation ProAm: Relive the excitement of the 10th annual Ike Foundation ProAm fishing tournament on the Upper Chesapeake Bay. Discover how the event brought together competitors, volunteers, and sponsors for a great cause: getting new kids fishing. Despite the heat, over 100 kids learned how to fish, some for the very first time, experiencing the "fun fest" atmosphere with activities, hot dogs, and free rods and reels. * Tidal Water Fishing Strategy: Hear from this year's Pro-Am winner, JT Lang, about his unique tournament strategy on the challenging Chesapeake Bay tidal fishery. JT, who often finds success with "no practice" or "minimal practice", explains how adapting to minute-by-minute tidal changes and fishing the moment led to their victory. Learn how they strategically fished close to the bank during high water and successfully upgraded their catch using a frog fishing technique in "worst looking grass with chunky mud". It was the closest win in the Pro-Am's history, decided by just four ounces. * Vegas's Junior Bass Fishing Championship: Celebrate with us as Vegas "The Hammer", Mike's son, shares his experience winning the New Jersey Youth and High School BASS States tournament on Manasquan Reservoir. This critical win qualified him for the national championship on Clarks Hill Reservoir. Vegas discusses his decision-making process, including moving to deeper water (23-25 feet) to find fish when the shallow bite shut off. He also recounts a thrilling moment of catching a six-pounder and the "scariest signs of lightning" experienced on the water, including a "buzzing rod tip" and "floating line". * Overcoming Challenges & Future Plans: Mike opens up about his tough decision to miss the Tenkiller event due to injury, a rare occurrence in his 30-year career. The goal is to return to fishing by the St. Clair event. The episode also teases future developments, including Vegas's custom dice lure coming soon, and major bass fishing industry rumors, such as BASS being up for sale and MLF's plans for "new breakthrough specialty events" possibly "partnering with LIV Golf". Don't miss the humorous discussion about the potential "Golden Guys" senior fishing tour!

Tired of the negativity surrounding bass fishing? Join us as we aim for positivity, announce the exciting return of the fan-favorite City Limits fishing show in 2026, and discuss the mission to get more kids fishing in non-traditional areas through initiatives like street fishing – all while hanging out at the bar and celebrating over 10 years of conversation! Welcome to Ike Live at the Bar! In this episode, join Mike, Becky, and Ethan for a fun and engaging conversation. We're dedicated to changing the narrative (particularly in tournament fishing) and focusing on positivity, as negativity has become so prevalent. Get ready for some exciting news! We're announcing the highly anticipated return of the fan-favorite City Limits fishing show in 2026. This show is all about the challenge and excitement of fishing in urban areas and finding success in unexpected places, regardless of the species or method – be it boat, kayak, bank fishing, or even wading. We'll be using social media to find real people to join us as guests. The show will be available on traditional TV and new digital platforms. A major topic this week is the concept of street fishing. We discuss its huge popularity in other countries where boats are not accessible and how we are working hard to bring street fishing to the US. This initiative is directly aimed at getting more kids fishing, particularly those in non-traditional urban environments who may not have access to expensive equipment like bass boats or forward-facing sonar. This aligns perfectly with the mission of The Ike Foundation to connect kids to the outdoors and conservation. Join us as we also touch on the recent Bassmaster Elite event win by Pat Schlapper (who won with 38lbs 12oz) on the difficult Sabine River, discuss the impact of forward-facing sonar and tournament rules, explore the pros and cons of social media in the fishing industry, and celebrate over 10 years of conversation on the Ike Live podcast. We also share updates on upcoming Ike Foundation events like the Celebrity ProAm (June 21st) and the Walk the Talk 5K Run & 1 Mile Walk on May 31st. This episode of Ike Live at the Bar is brought to you by our sponsors: Abu Garcia (check out the Ike Series 3.0 rods and reels) 👉 https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/catpage-NEWABUIKE.html?from=ikedup Tackle Warehouse (with great exclusives) 👉 http://tacklewarehouse.com/index.html?from=ikedup The Ike Foundation (get more kids fishing!) 👉 https://theikefoundation.org/ Did You Enjoy The Show? 👍 LIKE & SHARE 🔔 SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE 📰 STAY UP TO DATE ON EVERYTHING - Subscribed To My FREE Newsletter at https://mikeiaconelli.com/newsletter

In this exciting episode of Ike LIVE, we welcome longtime friend and professional bass angler Fred “Boom Boom” Roumbanis to the show! Fred shares his insights on the ever-evolving bass fishing scene, tournament strategies, and his signature swimbait techniques that have helped him land giant bass. Topics Covered in This Episode: ✅ Swimbait Fishing Mastery – Fred breaks down his approach to swimbait fishing, including his go-to setups and techniques for targeting big bass. ✅ Tournament Fishing Strategies – Fred shares his experiences competing at the highest level, how he adjusts to changing conditions, and what it takes to stay competitive. ✅ The Evolution of Bass Fishing – From new technology to the rise of young anglers, Fred and Ike discuss how the sport has changed and where it’s headed. ✅ Secrets to Staying Consistent on Tour – How does Fred maintain success year after year? He reveals his mindset and preparation routines. ✅ Behind the Scenes with Fred Roumbanis – Funny stories, personal insights, and the moments that have shaped his career in professional fishing. If you’re a hardcore bass angler or just love the sport, this episode is packed with expert knowledge, laughs, and raw fishing talk you won’t want to miss!

Ike Live Podcast | Ish Monroe on Bass Fishing, State of the Industry, Frog Fishing & The Future of the Sport In this action-packed episode of Ike LIVE, we sit down with bass fishing professional Ish Monroe to break down some of the biggest shifts happening in professional fishing right now. Ish brings his signature take on everything from controversial rule changes to the next generation of elite anglers. What to expect in this episode: ✅ The Next Generation – A look at the rookies and young guns making waves in professional fishing. ✅ State of the Industry – Where’s professional bass fishing headed? ✅ Bassmaster Opens Cutting Co-Anglers – Is this a step forward or a setback? Where do they go? ✅ MLF’s FFS Rules – What’s changing, and how will it impact the sport? ✅ Frog Fishing Masterclass – Ish shares his go-to frogging setup and reveals who he thinks are the best frog fishermen in the game. Whether you're a hardcore bass angler, a weekend warrior, or just love the thrill of competitive fishing, this episode is a must watch!

Tune in as Mike Iaconelli & Becky Iaconelli recap 2024. It's going to be an exciting show, as we also have some BIG news to share!