Big News for SIKC: New Director, New Board, and Key Rule Updates for 2026
A New Chapter for SIKC
Southern Illinois Kayak Club is entering a major transition period as we prepare for the 2026 season. After serving as Director from 2019 through 2025, Josh Lincoln is stepping down from the role. During Josh’s six years of leadership, SIKC experienced continual growth in participation, communication, professionalism, and angler engagement.
As part of the club’s ongoing effort to improve transparency and structure, the SIKC Board voted and has elected Jonathan Kessler as the new Director for the 2026 season. Josh will continue serving the club as Vice President, ensuring continuity and supporting the board’s ongoing development.
Your 2026 SIKC Board
Director: Dr. Jonathan Kessler
Vice President: Josh Lincoln
Treasurer: Susie Roloff
Scheduling Director: Dustin Siegel
Chief of Judges: Lee Van Hoose
At-Large Members: Brady Barlow & Austin Weidhuner
This board builds on the structural improvements SIKC has implemented over the last two seasons, providing a stable foundation for communication, judging consistency, bylaws enforcement, and member experience.
Key Rule Updates for 2026
Classic Qualification (Applies to March 2026 and Continued Thereafter)
The March 2026 two-day event will serve as the 2025 Championship Classic.
Qualification follows the structure approved by the Board:
Top 20 anglers by AOY points plus
Any angler who completed at least four (4) regular-season events
This participation-based pathway encourages angler engagement throughout the full season. The Board intends to continue this format moving forward.
AOY Points Refinement
To keep competition tight and meaningful through the final events of the year:
Point scaling has been adjusted to increase the impact of later events.
This ensures more anglers stay within reach of AOY standings throughout the season.
Membership & Dues Clarification
Membership year: April 1 – March 31
Prorated memberships: 75% after June 1, 50% after July 1
Membership must be active before participating in any event
Memberships for the 2026 season will go on sale January 1 at https://www.sikcfishing.org.
Rules Formatting & Consistency
A full cleanup of the rulebook includes:
Clearer numbering
Better alignment with B.A.S.S. and KBF conventions
Consolidated language for quicker reference on the water
Event Conduct & Judging
Refinements include:
Clarified photo submission guidelines
Strengthened tie-breaking and appeal procedures
Standardized judging protocols approved by the Chief of Judges
Expanded 2026 Organizational Updates
Bylaws Finalized
The Board has formally adopted SIKC’s bylaws, outlining:
Board roles and duties
Fiscal year (January–December)
Membership cycle (April–March)
Annual meeting structure
Election procedures
These documents solidify the governance framework that has been developed over the past two years.
Community, Sponsors & Outreach
SIKC is continuing outreach to local and regional partners—including sport retailers, outdoors brands, and small businesses—to support angler recognition, prize pools, and long-term community involvement.
The Board is laying groundwork for:
Expanded community events
Future conservation partnerships
Youth engagement opportunities in 2027
The Fall Team Series: Growing Into a Signature Program
One of the most exciting developments heading into 2026 is the formalization and expansion of the Fall Team Series.
Based on strong participation and feedback this past fall, the Team Series will continue featuring:
Two-angler teams
Combined length for team scoring
Strategic pairings that reward teamwork and complementary skillsets
Competitive but relaxed late-season atmosphere
The Fall Team Series is designed to:
Strengthen the sense of community within SIKC
Offer a unique format where seasoned anglers can mentor developing anglers
Provide competitive opportunities after the main season concludes
Increase the club’s visibility through team-focused content and media coverage
Additional format refinements and schedule details will be announced separately.
Looking Ahead
With updated rules, a strengthened board, and continued investment in community-building programs like the Fall Team Series, SIKC is entering 2026 with momentum and a clear path forward.
Memberships go on sale January 1 at sikcfishing.org, and we look forward to seeing familiar and new faces join us for the 2026 season.
For questions about rules, membership, or the leadership transition, please contact the board directly using the information on our website.
