Season Finale at Newton Lake: Kevin Cox Earns His First SIKC Victory as 2025 Comes to a Close
That’s a wrap on the 2025 Southern Illinois Kayak Club season! We finished the year at Newton Lake, and while the bite was stingy, our anglers showed true grit and determination from the first cast to the final minute. Every fish mattered, and the season’s last stop brought one of the most hard-fought finishes we’ve seen all year.
Kevin Cox Breaks Through for His First Win
Rising to the top in dramatic fashion, Kevin Cox captured his first-ever SIKC victory — and what a way to do it on championship day! Kevin has been grinding all season long, and his perseverance paid off with a memorable and well-deserved win. Congratulations, Kevin!
Wil Abbott Finishes Strong
Wil Abbott claimed second place, closing out his season with the same passion and intensity that defined his entire year. To top it off, he also landed the Heads Up Taxidermy Big Bass of the Day, putting an exclamation point on his performance.
Mr. Consistency: Darren Hemker
Darren Hemker rounded out the Top 3, proving once again why he’s one of the most consistent and respected anglers in SIKC. Darren’s steady presence on the leaderboard this season has been a masterclass in focus and execution.
After the final fish was logged, we wrapped things up with an incredible awards ceremony filled with celebration, laughter, and appreciation for the entire SIKC community.
🏆 Season Highlights:
Dalton Williams – 2025 Angler of the Year (back-to-back champion!)
Keith Gressler – Rookie of the Year, after an outstanding debut season
Kevin Cox – Pineapple Man of the Year, the highest honor we award for sportsmanship, dedication, and character
This season was one for the books — full of hard-fought tournaments, new faces making their mark, and unforgettable moments shared on the water. The Southern Illinois Kayak Club continues to thrive because of the anglers, families, and supporters who pour their heart into every event.
A huge thank-you goes out to our sponsors, especially RAILBLAZA for their incredible year-long support. Your partnership allows us to celebrate our anglers, elevate our events, and keep pushing this trail forward.
Midwest Kayak Company • P-Line • Kayak Bass Connection • Da Bomb Anchor Company • Thrasher Sports Apparel • Missile Baits • Ketch Products Inc. • Spittin Image Jigs • Heads Up Taxidermy • RAILBLAZA
The 2025 SIKC season is officially in the books — and what a ride it’s been! From record-breaking bags to community-driven celebrations, this year reminded us all why we love this sport and this club.
Here’s to an even bigger and better 2026 season ahead.
Tight lines, and we’ll see you on the water!
