Top 10 AOY Profile: Darren Hemker
Rank: #2
Hometown: Germantown, Illinois
Favorite Lake: Cedar Lake
Kayak / Setup: Native Slayer Max 12.5 with Garmin 93sv and Livescope
Sponsors: “Maybe one day.”
Season Highlights
When it comes to consistent success on the SIKC trail, Darren Hemker is as reliable as they come. A multi-year AOY contender, Darren added another stellar season to his resume in 2025, finishing 2nd overall in Angler of the Year points. His biggest moment came at Pyramid State Park, where he secured a hard-fought win against a loaded field — even edging out reigning AOY Dalton Williams.
On the Water
Darren’s fishing style is straightforward and no-nonsense: just catch fish and don’t lose the big bites. His experience allows him to stay calm under pressure, knowing that every bite matters. His confidence and persistence have made him one of the most respected anglers on the SIKC roster.
Favorite Techniques
Hemker relies heavily on two staples: the chatterbait and rocker head. These power-fishing tools fit his aggressive, cover-oriented approach — ideal for lakes like Cedar and Pyramid where reaction strikes can make or break a day.
Memorable Moment
While his victory at Pyramid was a highlight, it came with extra satisfaction: beating Dalton Williams, who went on to win AOY. The friendly rivalry between the two has pushed both anglers to elevate their game and create some of the most memorable storylines in recent SIKC seasons.
Goals for 2026
Looking ahead, Darren’s goal is to stay inside the Top 2 in AOY for a fourth or fifth consecutive season — a streak that would solidify his legacy as one of SIKC’s all-time most consistent performers.
Off the Water
When he’s not fishing, Darren channels his passion for the outdoors into waterfowl guiding throughout the fall and winter. His goal is simple: to keep improving as both an angler and an outdoorsman — and to keep sharing that passion with others.
About the Series
This post is part of the SIKC Top 10 Angler of the Year Spotlight, a winter series celebrating our 2025 Top 10 finishers and their stories on and off the water.
Follow the full series at sikcfishing.org.
