What baits do you like to throw in pre spawn and spawning season?
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
I fish the deepest, most vertical break areas of that part of the lake that I'm fishing.
What's your "go-to" lure that you cannot live without?
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
I'd say my go-to lure is a shaky head (versatility) or a jig (big fish bait).
Where's your favorite place to fish in Wisconsin
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
The Madison Chain of Lakes. I thought it was a neat lake, how it's set up, & has largemouth & smallmouth
Nice!! Mine has got to be the Peshtigo River. Chuck full of big Smallies.
What weight do you think it is going to take to win the Classic this year?
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
It's going to be a great tournament. I think it will probably take 18 pounds a day to win.
Do u like the live scoring in MLF or the traditional weigh ins more?
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
I like them both. They're both exciting. I don't like one more than the other.
Me and my partner @Frost_2 watch the clip of #NeverGiveUp before every tourney, love ur passion for the sport
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
Thank you!
How do you feel about the A-rig
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
I like the A-rig & we should follow the state law. If the state allows it, we should be able to fish it.
Couldn't agree more . Thanks Mike and good luck at the classic
Larry McCausland @larrymccausland
Being a father of 3 myself, how does your children handle you being on tour?
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
That's been the hardest part of my career. You find ways to make it work. It's unnatural to travel that much, but they handle really well. They get that's my job.
Do you prefer a tournament that's a slug fest or tougher conditions?
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
Tougher conditions, all the way! I like catching 'em, but I like the challenge of a tough event, for sure.
Mike, what's the biggest spot, smallmouth, and largemouth you've caught, tournament or non?
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
Spot: 5-6, Lake Martin; Smallmouth: 6-6, small public lake; Largemouth: 14-1 Lake Amistad during tourney practice
have you ever considered the possibility to come and fish in Monterrey Mexico? cause you have a lot of fans right here!!
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
Absolutely! I would love to fish there. I've had the opportunity to travel through fishing, and it's great!
What’s your favorite lake in NJ to fish?
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
Manasquan Reservoir in Central NJ. It's a neat lake & has a lot of diff. forms of cover that you don't always see here
Hey Mike, You planning on fishing the James River Open this summer?
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
Yes, I'm registered for all the Northern Opens, and my plan is to be there.
When you have problems getting number 5 in the boat, what's your go to bait of choice?
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
Without a doubt, finesse fishing with a shaky head worm! That's a real easy way to put #5 in the boat.
Dalton Engstrom @DaltonEngstrom
Would you rather fish for smallmouth or largemouth? Why?
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
I'd rather fish for smallmouth because they fight a lot harder.
Why do you choose Abu Garcia?? Btw you the man Mike!!!
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
The Abu Garcia Veritas is great rod. It's sensitive and is a great price.
How much time would you spend on a 6 pounder sight fishing when she doesnt leave but will not turn on the bait?
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
I have about an hour rule for bedding fish. If she doesn't bite within an hour, it's time to move on.
Mike, who did you look up to growing up in the fishing word and what made you keep pushing when you thought all hope was lost?
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
A lot of the guys are still in the sport today: Gary Klein, Denny Brauer, Rick Clunn. They're just three. Your drive keeps you going. Your passion and your drive!
My wife @MrsDorroh is a fan of urs an new 2 fishing,says shes incapable of catching bass,give her some encouragement?
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
You CAN catch bass. The biggest thing is patience, not getting overwhelmed by needing it to happen quick. Throw a soft plastic stickbait and take 5 minutes bringing it back in & you're gonna catch a bass.
You're the man Ike...thanks a lot!
Thanks!
Is braid ok to throw a football jig in 15ft of water.?
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
Braid is ok, but a better choice is fluorocarbon. The dense line gives better action & it has a bit of stretch.
My dream is to become pro, I graduate college in May, what should be my first step?
Mike Iaconelli @mike_Iaconelli
Join a local fishing club. Learn different baits & water conditions. Don't be satisfied. Start soliciting sponsors now.
Thanks, Mike, you’re the man.
Mike broke Twitter! Twitter will no longer allow him to tweet because he's reached his limit. We'll post the transcript later today.
Thank you everyone for sending your questions. And thank you, Mike, for spending time with your fans today!
From @mike_iaconelli Thanks to all the fans. And I like breaking stuff. I break rods and reels, so I'm happy I broke Twitter!