Top 10 AOY Profile: Jonathan Kessler
Rank: #4
Hometown: Evansville, IL
Favorite Lake: Cedar Lake
Kayak / Setup: Hobie PA14 “Ike Edition” with Lowrance HDS Live 9 and AT1
Sponsors: State Team Member for Kistler Rods
Social Media: Facebook | YouTube – Lake Logic
Season Highlights
For Jonathan Kessler, the 2025 season was about perseverance and consistency. After missing the first two trail events due to personal circumstances, he made a strong return at Sangchris Lake — notching a solid finish and staying steady through the rest of the year. Kessler placed inside the Top 7 in every remaining stop, earning him a 4th place finish in the 2025 SIKC Angler of the Year standings.
Approach to Tournament Day
Kessler is methodical on the water. He approaches each event by creating a structured game plan that adapts throughout the day.
“I typically try to game plan each tournament for the given pattern by setting timers and adjusting to the conditions throughout the day. I typically try to find them deep,” he explains.
That disciplined style reflects his engineering and analytical background — every move is part of a broader strategy.
Favorite Baits & Techniques
“Everyone knows that my favorite technique is the flipping jig.”
A power-fishing approach that fits perfectly with the diverse Illinois fisheries, Kessler’s confidence in the jig continues to play a key role in his success.
Memorable Moment of 2025
“My most memorable moment in the SIKC season was actually catching a new personal best while prefishing for the Newton tournament.”
Moments like these remind him why he loves the sport — the thrill of discovery and the reward of preparation.
Goals for 2026
Looking ahead, Kessler plans to balance competition with leadership:
“My goal for 2026 is to focus on tournament directing and still finding a way to be competitive on the water. I know it’s a challenge doing both, but I’m excited to see how I can contribute to the larger organization and continue the growth that Josh developed over the past five years.”
Off the Water
Away from the tournaments, Kessler’s life is equally full.
“Off the water, my life has been crazy and full of changes this year. I’m starting a new job in November related to AI and pharmacology. I’m always working on new projects like my steering device for stern-mount motors and, now, directing SIKC through the offseason and into next year.”
A lifelong engineer, educator, and innovator, Kessler brings that same curiosity and drive to every aspect of his work and his time on the water.
About the Series
This post is part of the SIKC Top 10 Angler of the Year Spotlight — a winter feature celebrating our 2025 Top 10 finishers and sharing their stories with the SIKC community.
Follow the full series at sikcfishing.org.
