Folks at home, check out this NEW Ike Live podcast episode featuring recent Elite Series winner, Pat Schlapper! Discover how Pat clinched an impressive victory on the challenging Sabine River, showcasing his mastery of junk fishing and traditional angling methods. Learn why his win, relying on instincts, sounds, and classic techniques like buzzbait fishing, resonated deeply within the bass fishing community, especially for those familiar with tough, grind tournaments. Pat shares the emotional journey of a grassroots bass angler rising through the ranks, and why sharing his hard-earned trophy with family, friends, and early supporters is the most rewarding part of his success. The conversation also delves into the critical mental game of professional fishing, discussing how to overcome slumps and make winning decisions on the water. The episode tackles the ongoing forward-facing sonar debate, with Pat offering his candid perspective on technology in the sport and the need for more positive dialogue. Hear about the evolution of professional bass fishing and what changes might be on the horizon for future tournaments, including a potential 50/50 split on technology use. 

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

Lots of things happening in the world of professional bass fishing. New faces making a name for themselves, and familiar faces stepping away. We'll also discuss rule changes and other pressing topics.

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!

Bassmaster Classic Recap, Tournament Season Update & the Latest Happenings on the Trail!

Join us for an Ike LIVE from the bar with Becky for another action-packed episode! This week, we're diving headfirst into all the BIG stories in the bass fishing world. We’re talking about the new Bassmaster Classic champion, what that means for the sport, and what the future holds for the anglers coming up next!

I’m also giving you the lowdown on my own tournament season—yep, the highs, the lows, and all the crazy stuff that’s gone down so far. What’s next? You’ll get the inside scoop straight from me.

And we can’t forget about the drama, baby. We're diving into all the controversies… it’s all here, unfiltered and REAL. So, grab a drink, kick back, and join me for some raw, uncut, and absolutely rowdy conversation about everything going down in competitive bass fishing! Let's go!

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!

In this action-packed episode of the Ike Live Podcast, legendary professional angler Mike Iaconelli sits down with Jordan Lee, a two-time Bassmaster Classic Champion and one of the most dominant figures in competitive bass fishing. They dive deep into the world of pro fishing, discussing everything from off-season preparation, tournament strategy, mental toughness, and the evolution of bass fishing as a sport.

What to Expect in This Episode:

✅ Jordan Lee’s journey from young angler to Bassmaster Classic dominance

✅ The off-season grind – how top anglers stay sharp when they’re not competing

✅ A raw, honest discussion about the current state of competitive bass fishing

✅ How technology, electronics, and forward-facing sonar are changing the game

✅ Jordan’s personal fishing techniques, bait selection, and tournament strategies

✅ Fun behind-the-scenes stories from the pro fishing circuit

✅ The future of professional fishing and where the sport is headed

Whether you’re a hardcore bass angler, a weekend warrior, or just love the thrill of competitive fishing, this episode is a must-watch!

🎣 The Ike Live Podcast: Ben Milliken Talks Elites, Controversy & The Future of Fishing 🎣

On this episode of Ike Live, Bassmaster Classic Champion Mike Iaconelli (Ike) sits down with Milliken to talk all things fishing—and plenty beyond. They cover:

🎣 Life at the Elite Level – What Milliken has learned in his sophomore season

Big bass hunter Ben Milliken has built a massive following for his relentless pursuit of giants, but his journey has been anything but ordinary. From earning a Bassmaster Elite Series invite through the Open EQs to stirring up debates on forward-facing sonar (FFS), Milliken isn’t afraid to shake things up. And recently, a run-in with Texas authorities put him back in the headlines.

Whether you’re a hardcore angler or just love a good fishing story, this is an episode you don’t want to miss! 🎧

Listen now on Podbean! 🚀

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!

Rob Newell shares insights from his new book, discussing sponsorships and the importance of friendship in fishing. The conversation reflects on the changes in tournament fishing, the impact of technology on the sport, and the nostalgia for its golden era. Newell emphasizes the significance of thorough research in writing and the need to introduce fishing to urban youth, promoting outdoor experiences and conservation efforts.