About the Southern Illinois Kayak Club

Who We Are

The Southern Illinois Kayak Club (SIKC) is a community of passionate kayak anglers dedicated to promoting competitive and recreational bass fishing across Southern Illinois and the surrounding region.

Founded by local anglers, SIKC was built on three core values: Community, Conservation, and Competition. Our mission is to provide a friendly, well-organized trail where anglers of all experience levels can learn, grow, and compete while protecting and celebrating our local fisheries.

A person relaxing on a kayak on a lake, surrounded by green trees.

Our Mission

To grow the sport of kayak bass fishing through community, conservation, and fair competition — while creating opportunities for anglers to connect, share knowledge, and make lasting memories on the water.

What Makes SIKC Different

Man fishing on a small boat in a calm river with trees and autumn foliage in the background.

  • Community First: SIKC is more than just a tournament trail — it’s a family of anglers who support one another on and off the water.

  • Accessible to All: We welcome beginners and seasoned competitors alike. Our events are affordable, well-run, and built around fun, fairness, and friendship.

  • Conservation Minded: Every tournament follows CPR (Catch, Photo, Release) format to ensure fish health and sustainability.

  • Year-Round Connection: Members stay active through our private Facebook group and Discord server, sharing tips, gear setups, and fishing reports throughout the season.

Competitive Opportunities

Each year, SIKC hosts a multi-stop tournament trail, culminating in the SIKC Classic Championship.

Anglers compete for:

  • Angler of the Year (AOY)

  • Rookie of the Year (ROY)

  • Pineapple Man/Woman of the Year — our signature award for sportsmanship and dedication.

In addition, SIKC anglers often qualify to represent our region in national events.

A woman holding a large check for $504, standing on a dock near a lake, smiling, with a woman or a girl with light pink or purple hair in the background, wearing a blue shirt with a kayaking club logo.
Man holding a large check in front of a lake with trees in the background.
A man on a fishing boat in the water, casting a fishing line with multiple fishing poles in a natural, wooded outdoor setting.

Our Story

What started as a small group of kayak anglers sharing a few tournaments in Southern Illinois has grown into one of the most active kayak fishing clubs in the Midwest.


Through years of dedication, local partnerships, and community support, SIKC has become a respected name in grassroots competitive fishing — while staying true to its friendly, down-to-earth roots.

A man fishing on a boat in a natural outdoor setting during daylight, wearing sunglasses, a light blue jacket, and khaki pants.

Leadership & Executive Board

The Southern Illinois Kayak Club (SIKC) is led by a dedicated group of volunteers who oversee club operations, tournaments, finances, and community initiatives. Each board member brings unique experience and a shared commitment to growing the sport of kayak fishing across Southern Illinois.

The Executive Board meets regularly to ensure that the club runs smoothly, remains transparent, and continues to create meaningful opportunities for anglers of all experience levels.


  • Based in Jackson, Missouri, Jonathan has been a member of SIKC since 2021 and brings both passion and precision to his role as Director. A dedicated tournament angler, Jonathan has competed across the Midwest and will proudly represent Illinois B.A.S.S. Nation Kayak Trail at the 2026 Kayak Bassmaster Championship. Off the water, he’s known for his leadership, organization, and commitment to growing the regional kayak fishing community through transparency, inclusion, and innovation.

Man in fishing jersey holding a green fish-shaped sign at a lake

  • A founding member of SIKC and the club’s Director from 2020 to 2025, Joshua Lincoln helped lead the organization through one of its most transformative eras—growing membership from fewer than 20 anglers to more than 60 active competitors. His steady leadership, professionalism, and deep commitment to fair, consistent competition played a major role in shaping the identity of the club.

    Just as importantly, Joshua built a true community—one centered on friendship, support, and a shared passion for kayak bass fishing. Under his guidance, SIKC became a place where anglers of all backgrounds feel welcome, valued, and connected.

    As Vice President, Joshua continues to provide essential mentorship, historical insight, and strategic direction. He helps keep SIKC grounded in the vision that started it all while inspiring the club’s continued growth and evolution.

A person in a kayak holding a large fish near sunset on the water.


  • As Treasurer, Susie Roloff brings precision, professionalism, and positivity to the SIKC Executive Board. An accomplished tournament angler and active voice for women in kayak fishing, Susie also serves as part of the Women’s Fishing Federation leadership team, where she helps promote inclusivity and mentorship in the sport. Her attention to detail and commitment to community make her an invaluable part of the SIKC team.
    Learn more about Susie on the Women’s Fishing Federation site.

A man in sunglasses and a cap holding a largemouth bass fish on a kayak with fishing gear, against a background of green foliage.


  • From Fairview Heights, Illinois, Lee Van Hoose has served as SIKC’s Chief of Judges for over six years, ensuring fairness and accuracy at every event. His deep experience with tournament scoring and photo verification has helped maintain the integrity and consistency of SIKC competition. Off the water, Lee is the owner and lure designer behind PredaTackle Lures, where he creates custom hard baits known for their precision and craftsmanship.
    Follow his work on Facebook: @PredaTackle Lures

A man wearing sunglasses, a cap, and a blue life jacket outdoors on a cloudy day.


  • A founding member of SIKC (2018), Dr. Dustin Siegel brings both scientific curiosity and competitive drive to the board. A former Angler of the Year (2022), Dustin’s deep knowledge of fish behavior and habitat plays directly into his role overseeing tournament scheduling and planning. Off the water, he’s a professional herpetologist and biology professor, where his passion for nature and education mirrors his leadership within the kayak fishing community.

Man sitting in a kayak fishing, wearing sunglasses, a hat, and camouflage clothing, holding a fishing rod with a background of trees and water.


  • A member of SIKC since 2020, Austin Weidhuner adds creativity and technical expertise to the Executive Board. Based in Jacksonville, Illinois, Austin is a seasoned Video Production Manager specializing in outdoor and adventure media. His eye for storytelling helps capture and share the excitement of SIKC events, from tournament highlights to sponsor spotlights, and his continued support strengthens the club’s growing digital presence.

A man sitting in a kayak on a body of water, fishing with a rod, wearing sunglasses, a cap, gloves, and a life jacket, with tall grass or reeds in the background.


  • Joining SIKC in 2022, Brady Barlow represents the next generation of anglers helping drive the club forward. Based in Roxana, Illinois, Brady brings contagious enthusiasm, fresh ideas, and a strong sense of sportsmanship to every event. His involvement in club decision-making and event participation makes him a valued voice for the broader membership.

Last updated 30 October 2025.

Club Bylaws & Governance

The Southern Illinois Kayak Club (SIKC) operates under a formal set of bylaws that define the structure, responsibilities, and procedures guiding our organization. These bylaws ensure transparency, fairness, and consistency in all club operations — from elections and leadership roles to membership requirements and financial practices.

The bylaws are reviewed annually by the Executive Board and presented for ratification at the club’s Annual Meeting in November. This process helps maintain accountability and keeps SIKC aligned with the evolving needs of our members and the kayak fishing community.

You can view or download the current version of the bylaws below.

View the bylaws