Ike Live Fishing Talk Show with Mike Iaconelli

Ike Live: Emil Wagner’s Champlain Win, Rising Tour Stories & Real Talk

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.

LIVE from the Bar: What I Loved About Spain, Livestream Ban in Bassmaster, and New MLF FFS Rules!

This week on Ike Live, we’re coming to you LIVE from the bar! Ike and Becky are back from an unforgettable trip through Spain and Portugal, and they’re sharing stories, fishing insights, and all the wild moments from the road.

But that’s just the beginning…

We’re also diving into two massive breaking updates in the tournament bass fishing world:

Bassmaster’s shocking new rule banning anglers from livestreaming their tournament days – what does this mean for anglers, sponsors, and fans?

Major League Fishing’s new forward-facing sonar rule at the BFL level – anglers are now limited to just 3 hours of using FFS and 360 sonar during tournament days. Is this the start of a sport-wide shift?

Join Mike and Becky for real talk, strong opinions, and unfiltered takes on where the sport is headed.

Grab a drink, settle in, and let’s talk fishing.

 

#IkeLive #MikeIaconelli #BassFishingPodcast #MLF #Bassmaster #LivestreamBan #ForwardFacingSonar #BFL #FishingControversy #FishingNews #ProFishing #TournamentFishing #FFS #FishingRules #FishingCommunity

BASSMASTER Elites BAN Forward-Facing Sonar?!

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

Ike Live from the Bar! ICAST DEAD?! Nationals Recap with Vegas, and Logan Latuso

Lots to unload here folks...First, ICAST 2025: the gear, the innovations, the surprises… and the growing rumors that ICAST might be on its last legs. Is the industry’s biggest trade show in trouble? Ike shares his raw thoughts after walking the floor and talking to insiders. Then it’s all about Vegas The Hammer's performance at the Bassmaster Junior National Championship. Get the full story on how he fished, what went down, and what it meant for Team Ike. BONUS!!! We will be joined by special guest, Logan Latuso. Logan is the latest angler to receive a DQ from BASS after taking multiple polygraphs. Plus, as always, expect some off-the-rails stories, laughs, and behind-the-scenes insights you won’t get anywhere else. 

This Has NEVER Happened In 30 Years Professionally Fishing!

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!

Sabine River Buzzbait Brilliance & Old School Dominance (No LiveScope!)

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. 

Let's Make Bass Fishing POSITIVE Again! 👉 City Limits Fishing is BACK in 2026

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

Ike LIVE! From The Bar with Becky and Special Guest: Matt Herren

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.

Ike LIVE! Swimbait Secrets & Tournament Tactics with Fred “Boom Boom” Roumbanis

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! 'From the Bar' with Becky

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!