Ranger Boats Drops Mike Iconnelli

[Juls_OH]

"Fishing Insider" posted this to the other thread, but since I thought this was going to get a lot more comments, I started a new thread, so that one wouldn't get soooooo long!

Juls

This was taken off Bass Fan.com this afternoon:

Ranger drops Ike 2/28/2006
Ranger Boats has dropped its sponsorship of Mike Iaconelli based on his behavior at the recent Bassmaster Classic. Here's the statement from Ranger president Randy Hopper.

"Based on a series of events that occurred during the recent Bassmaster Classic competition, Ranger Boats is withdrawing its sponsorship and affiliation with Mike Iaconelli. We do not believe that Mike's conduct during the tournament appropriately represents the deep-seated values on which our company was built and continues to operate.

"Ranger further acknowledges Iaconelli's impressive angling achievements as well as his commitment to promoting the sport of fishing. His efforts to encourage others through the platform of fishing are a credit to his many accomplishments. While we regret his actions leading to this decision, we wish Mike well in future ventures."

> During day 2 of the Bassmaster Classic, Berkley issued a statement stating Iaconelli would remain a Berkley pro-staff member. BassFan is awaiting comment from Iaconelli's other sponsors.

[Walleyepro]

I'm glad to see Ranger doing the right thing. After what he did to the American Flag. Its speaks for itself. If he were in the military, the beating he gave the flag would have been nothing compared to the beating he would have gotten later!

[Wonderrin]

What did he do, anyway?
I missed it.

Thanx in advance.

[righton]

Right on Ranger!! I'm glad given the recent thread that they stepped up and realized that indeed Bad publicity is just that....BAD! There you go to all you who thought this behavior would elevate him. We need positive excitement in this industry not negative.

[Juls_OH]

All caught on camera and in front of spectators:
1.Swearing when he realized he forgot to turn on his aerators and his Bass were dying.
2.Beating up his rear running light with the American Flad attached to it, and throwing it in the water.

It's all in the thread below, including his "apology letter".

Juls

[Wonderrin]

Thanks.
I just got done reading it.

wow
And, good job, Randy Hopper!

[pwt3time]

I believe Ranger over reacted. The punishment should fit the crime. He would have beat up that light, flag no flag. His intent was not to disgrace the country or our veterans. It was a sensless act where a person lost ther cool "temperary insanity", can't everyone except it for what it is, and nothing more.

He should have been DQD for the day or the event, this was a good move by BASS. But for a sponsor to pull a sponsorship for showing passion and emotion, COME ON. Mabey ESPN should not have aired it, we know why they did. Controversy equals RATINGS!!! Who is the real villan?

I hope the people at Ranger who made the descision don't live in a glass house.........

[egcg]

PWT3TIME, HE THREW THE FLAG IN THE WATER.What a disgace.
Im more proud to own a Ranger. Good job Ranger for standing up for whats right and not looking at how much publicity a person can get for doing the wrong thing

[Juls_OH]

I can tell from your response that you do not know the people at Ranger. If you did, you would not say what you did. I agree with them 100% on this one!

There's a big difference between passion and a temper.

Personally, I put the blame on ESPN and their "group" for always pushing Mike to act the fool on camera. They even told other anglers to "be more like Mike". He was just doing what he was told to do from the beginning, and this time it just went to far. Now he's paying for it... Big time.

Juls

[huh]

>He should have been DQD for the day or the event, this was a good move by BASS. But for a sponsor to pull a sponsorship for showing passion and emotion, COME ON

PASSION? I call that being a Cry Baby and total un-professionalism.
Emotion? Yes. But totally negative emotions. I don't feel it was excessive at all! There are hundreds of better examples for the sport waiting for Ranger sponsorships that deserve it way more than him. Just goes to show you, no matter what, all eyes are on you, and you just have to act accordingly. Temporary Insanity, or a free pass doesn't count, it should be no tolerance policy and I'm glad Ranger acted accordingly. Too bad Berkley didn't.

[David Kraft]

PWT three time:

I am a recent memember to the Ranger group. I totally agree with and support their decision to drop Iconnelli from their group. His actions were a total disgrace to all of us that represent ourselves as Professional Anglers. I also took it as a personal affront when he threw the American flag in the water. You see, in addition to being a Professional Angler, I am also a wounded vet from the Viet Nam era.

In addition, I am also sponsored by Berkley, and have been for many years. Not a big cash sponsorship, but none the less, a sponsorship. When I finish posting this message, I will be sending Eric Nag an e-mail asking that I be removed from the Berkley team. If Berkley is going to continue to associate themselves with Iconnelli, then I no longer wish to be part of their team.

Dave Kraft

[David Kraft]

PWT three time:

I am a recent memember to the Ranger group. I totally agree with and support their decision to drop Iconnelli from their group. His actions were a total disgrace to all of us that represent ourselves as Professional Anglers. I also took it as a personal affront when he threw the American flag in the water. You see, in addition to being a Professional Angler, I am also a wounded vet from the Viet Nam era.

In addition, I am also sponsored by Berkley, and have been for many years. Not a big cash sponsorship, but none the less, a sponsorship. When I finish posting this message, I will be sending Eric Nag an e-mail asking that I be removed from the Berkley team. If Berkley is going to continue to associate themselves with Iconnelli, then I no longer wish to be part of their team.

Dave Kraft

[LeeBrown]

Congratulations Dave, Its good to see that there are still some people in America willing to stand on principal. Thank you for your stand now and your service in the past, hope I draw you for a partner in the flw.

[LeeBrown]

Congratulations Dave, Its good to see that there are still some people in America willing to stand on principal. Thank you for your stand now and your service in the past, hope I draw you for a partner in the flw.

[Juls_OH]

Wow Mr. Kraft...
I have always had great respect for you, but taking the stand you just did, has taken my respect for you to a whole new level!

I had heard you were in a Ranger now, so I just want to take this opportunity to say, "Welcome to the Ranger Family"!! ;)

Juls

[Juls_OH]

Wow Mr. Kraft...
I have always had great respect for you, but taking the stand you just did, has taken my respect for you to a whole new level!

I had heard you were in a Ranger now, so I just want to take this opportunity to say, "Welcome to the Ranger Family"!! ;)

Juls

[David Kraft]

Thanks Lee and Juls:

I have just finished sending the message to Eric asking that I be removed from the Berkley team. I further asked that he and Berkley reconsider their sponsorship of Iconnelli. We'll see what Berkley does, but as of now you will not see Berkley listed as one of my sponsors.

Dave Kraft

[David Kraft]

Thanks Lee and Juls:

I have just finished sending the message to Eric asking that I be removed from the Berkley team. I further asked that he and Berkley reconsider their sponsorship of Iconnelli. We'll see what Berkley does, but as of now you will not see Berkley listed as one of my sponsors.

Dave Kraft

[funeyeunlogged]

I'm kind of in both camps on this one. I think he should have been DQed for the day but agree w/ 3time on punisiment fitting the crime.

I agree with some of Juls points as well.

I watched the Classic all weekend and enjoyed the coverage. I saw the incident and have seen it replayed and I didn't catch the flag on the pole until it was pointed out. I know guys that love Ike and say he's a great guy and he's in it for the right reasons. ESPN does push people to show more personality and I feel like it was played up for show on Mike's end. I am sure he was mad at himself but being a seasoned and succesful tournament angler, he knows how to control that. Every tournament person has experienced times on the water where they were upset at themselves and hit the meltdown point. You either control it or you lose your boat sponsor I guess. Even if it wasn't played up on his end, people are people and people have real emotions and reactions, especially with 1/2 million on the line. Ranger may have made a stand but I don't think they will sell more boats b/c Mike is gone. I'm not a fan of Mike's, my point is people need to lighten up. I doubt that that detered a child from getting interested in fishing or made anyone turn the TV off effecting the all mighty ratings which = dollars. If anything it helped the ratings b/c people wanted to see if he can come back from this or tune in to the next tournament to see if he loses it again. I am certain that no one would have sold there Ranger or cancled there boat on order if Ranger did not address this issue. It is a way for them to eek out a little more press attention.

I don't see Tiger getting dropped by Buick or Nike for GD'ing it all over the TV every weekend. IMO, that is the most offensive thing someone could say or do. I didn't stop buying Nike b/c a human spokesperson for that company did a human thing. Everything is either political or religious and everyone takes aim at the the guy who is an indivdual and a personallity. And, like or not, BASS IS as big as it is today partly and most recently b/c of Mike. There is no such thing as bad publicity, this thread would not have existed if that were true.

On a side note, I think the walleye tournament circuits could learn a thing or two from BASS and FLW on how tournaments should be covered. It would also be nice to see some personallity from anyone in professional walleye fishing. I have watched all the tournaments and it seems like the same 5 or 6 guys get ALL the coverage. Who cares after awhile. Who cares about the rookie son of a pro (after the 2nd time talking to him), stuff that is relavent is over-looked to talk about how another press getting pro gave him a dollar or some crap for winning a game. I mean hello, I watch every Monday night and Mark Brumbaugh is the points leader and has had almost none of the TV coverage ALL season long. Is it b/c he switched from Ranger to PK and they don't want his boat on Tv or what? Humm... seems strange that the points leader, basically all season long, who happens to be a well spoken pro of pro's gets next to no coverage. Maybe they could cover again how good Gary Roach is at holding his boat stationary in any water condition. I think we need another segment on how bad somones tournament and pre-fish went when there name can't be found in the top 10 of any points standings. It shouldn't matter what boat you fish out of if you are a magor player in professional walleye angling. It should be all about what and who is relevant and bass tournament producers get it. Hat cams, trolling motor cams, LIVE coverage. Professional walleye fishing needs to step it up or it will soon be irrelevant. Charlie Moore, that's the opposite of step'n it up, IMO. There is thorough and exciting tournament coverage of sharks, kings, redfish and bass, why not walleye? I have never made a 100 mile run to find fish but a 45 mile run in solid 3's in a tournament style boat seems like it could be fun to watch??????

Sincerely, Jack from Sandusky aboard "funeye"

[G Powers]

Good for you Mr. Kraft! I thought it odd they made the statement after the fall-out Ranger had with him, to keep him. I never wish bad things like this to anyone, but going over the "limits" of a simple fishing tournament, I was glad to see atleast one sponsor thought it bad enough to cost him his deal. This is sad that a guy that could have had anything gave it all away because he could'nt act like an adult. I hope he pays for atleast a few years and gets his act together!

It's also sad that another company is OK with this! Dave you should have no problem getting a deal from a company wanting guys that are "professional" in the Pro fishing ranks. I'd be on the phone, they need guys that are willing to make a stand against things just like this! Good luck.

[kuzone unlogged]

It is early/late and I can't sleep so I will add my .02:
The facts:
1. Ike is an emotional fisherman.
2. When he hit the scene, he got press, carved a niche and ADDED something to the sport.
3. More people know his name than they do most or all pro fisherman.
4. He polarizes people - you love him or hate him - either way, you form an opinion on him.
5. He WINS and performs, consistently since coming up.
6. He represents part of the current population...not ALL of it, but a part of it.
7. He had a brain cramp and forgot to turn on his livewell (similar has happened to all of us and we ALL have reacted in various ways), he culled a dead fish in a half million dollar tourney (AFTER phoning in to tourney HQ nad asking if it was OK in the rules - this was shown on TV). REMEMBER, these were new Tritons and Ike fishes (or used to) a Ranger.
8. He kicked a light pole and bent it, it fell in the water - he picked it up and unattached the wire and stowed it up front.
9. The light pole was in a bad position and IN THE WAY (IMO), definately would have been down for walleyes, but BASS guys use the front deck.
10. He was DQ'd (weight) for the first day of the tourney, effectively removing him from the entire tourney, the biggest of the year.

Questions:
1. Should Ranger have dropped him for the publicity he got? For his specific actions? For his language?

Views:
1. A sponsor can decide to drop anyone, anytime - so it is OK with me if they do that.
2. Any of us can stop using a product for any reason, any time as well.
3. Reffering to NIKE and Tiger (earlier post), did anyone drop Nike because of Tiger's language? Probably not, but what about the sweatshop labor and .10 cent an hour factories that are taking American jobs...have you dropped them yet? Have your kids? This is a little more critical than a tantrum in the heat of the moment.
4. I may actually go the other way and drop any product who manufactures in China and does not stand by their anglers when they get some bad press.
5. Look around - how many factories are closed in your home town...how many products that you use are not made here? Whose fault is it?
6. REMEMBER it is all about the $. You can fool yourself into to thinking the main reason is the sport with these companies....but it IS the $.

Summary:
1. I would fish with Ike becase it would be an experience and it would be fun ( and yes, we may throw each other in the lake - but that could happen almost any time). He is more interesting than someone who has not won a tournamanet in 20 years. Sorry, that is JUST THE WAY IT IS.
2. I will still use Berkley (in the right situation)...for now.
3. I don't fish Rangers anyway (mostly a Lake Erie guy - and they don't handle the walleye chop).
4. I will still watch BASS to see what Ike does.
5. I will take personality, honesty and emotion over BS anyday.

Have a nice day :)
Mike

[cws]

Kobe Bryant lost his endorsments for raping a girl, this punishment fit the crime. This guy beat up a light pole and used bad language (none of which had to be shown on TV) and you people can't wait to take away his livelyhood. I doubt BASS will ban him from tourney fishin, getting DQ'd for the day was an eye opener to him I'm sure. I can see the meeting today at Berkely, there will be 20 guy's at the conferebce table and 1 guy will bring up the fact that Dave Kraft no longer wants to be sponsored because IKE is still with them and 19 out of the 20 guy's are gonna say "who's Dave Kraft?".

I don't think he'll have to wait too long for a new boat sponsor. This guy appeals to allot of kids, allot of kids that will be buying boats in the future. Ranger got their temporary publicity by doing this but in the long run they will sell less boats and selling boats is all they care about anyway.

[cws]

Kobe Bryant lost his endorsments for raping a girl, this punishment fit the crime. This guy beat up a light pole and used bad language (none of which had to be shown on TV) and you people can't wait to take away his livelyhood. I doubt BASS will ban him from tourney fishin, getting DQ'd for the day was an eye opener to him I'm sure. I can see the meeting today at Berkely, there will be 20 guy's at the conferebce table and 1 guy will bring up the fact that Dave Kraft no longer wants to be sponsored because IKE is still with them and 19 out of the 20 guy's are gonna say "who's Dave Kraft?".

I don't think he'll have to wait too long for a new boat sponsor. This guy appeals to allot of kids, allot of kids that will be buying boats in the future. Ranger got their temporary publicity by doing this but in the long run they will sell less boats and selling boats is all they care about anyway.

[Juls_OH]

>3. I don't fish Rangers anyway (mostly a Lake Erie guy - and
>they don't handle the walleye chop).
>Have a nice day :)
>Mike

Well thought out and stated Mike. But, I will argue only one point with you, since I have already voiced my opinion on the rest of it.

If you don't fish Rangers, how can you make the above statement, of which I would have to strongly disagree with you on, by the way. (surprise-surprise...lol) Rangers do fish Lake Erie quite well! :rock-on:

Thanks, you have a nice day too! ;)

Juls

[G Powers]

>Kobe Bryant lost his endorsments for raping a girl, this
>punishment fit the crime. This guy beat up a light pole and
>used bad language (none of which had to be shown on TV) and
>you people can't wait to take away his livelyhood. I doubt
>BASS will ban him from tourney fishin, getting DQ'd for the
>day was an eye opener to him I'm sure. I can see the meeting
>today at Berkely, there will be 20 guy's at the conferebce
>table and 1 guy will bring up the fact that Dave Kraft no
>longer wants to be sponsored because IKE is still with them
>and 19 out of the 20 guy's are gonna say "who's Dave Kraft?".
>
>I don't think he'll have to wait too long for a new boat
>sponsor. This guy appeals to allot of kids, allot of kids that
>will be buying boats in the future. Ranger got their temporary
>publicity by doing this but in the long run they will sell
>less boats and selling boats is all they care about anyway.



Great so we want to tell kids that "Pro" fishing is just like all the other big name sports, and as long as you have a name and a nitche you act like a complete jackass when ever you want? I have 2 sons, both of which like to like sports. I am still hiding them from all the "JUNK" in Pro sports. I DO NOT want my kids acting like that in ANY sport!

[G Powers]

>Kobe Bryant lost his endorsments for raping a girl, this
>punishment fit the crime. This guy beat up a light pole and
>used bad language (none of which had to be shown on TV) and
>you people can't wait to take away his livelyhood. I doubt
>BASS will ban him from tourney fishin, getting DQ'd for the
>day was an eye opener to him I'm sure. I can see the meeting
>today at Berkely, there will be 20 guy's at the conferebce
>table and 1 guy will bring up the fact that Dave Kraft no
>longer wants to be sponsored because IKE is still with them
>and 19 out of the 20 guy's are gonna say "who's Dave Kraft?".
>
>I don't think he'll have to wait too long for a new boat
>sponsor. This guy appeals to allot of kids, allot of kids that
>will be buying boats in the future. Ranger got their temporary
>publicity by doing this but in the long run they will sell
>less boats and selling boats is all they care about anyway.



Great so we want to tell kids that "Pro" fishing is just like all the other big name sports, and as long as you have a name and a nitche you act like a complete jackass when ever you want? I have 2 sons, both of which like to like sports. I am still hiding them from all the "JUNK" in Pro sports. I DO NOT want my kids acting like that in ANY sport!

[Wolverine 1]

NO, IT'S NOT OK. He disgraced the American Flag! Anybody that tries to justify what he did, needs to drive around and listen to Merle Hagards "Okie from Muskokie" to regain some common sense. He is on Television, in front of an International audience of millions, and he throws our flag in the water, because he was having a bad day???? Somebody pinch me, How is that OK? If one of the Japenese anglers did it, we would be calling for their green card, and their head. You want this guy to be a role model for Kids!?!

Congratulations Ranger! Congratulations Dave Kraft! For taking a stand and sending a message. And Yes, I think Berkley will listen to Dave. I will boycott all Berkley Products until they remove this guy from their Pro Staff.

Somebody needs to take this guy down to the VFW for a beer, and you'll never see him fish again, or walk.

Dan Lindner

[ArtCo]

Have we not all had bad days? It just so happens that Ike had the cameras on him. Did you ever do something in life that you regreted doing, you know, stupid things, and throw a hissie fit. Sure you have, and as far as kids are concerned... have you gone to a little leauge baseball game latetly? The biggest jerks are the loudmouth parents belittling umpires. I for one really did not watch B.A.S.S tourney's until Ike came on the see, why? Because as good as they are, Van**** and Parker would put me to sleep. Ike on the other hand showed passion for the sport. Do you really beleive that he is going to be the next John MaEnroe of fishing? Doubt it.Do you think Ike really wanted to disgrace our flag, come on....You can boycott, you can quit, you can do what you will, but remember, you to will have your "Bad day at Bedrock" and you to will be forgiven.

[tons]

David i think u are puuting pressure on a company that helps out the fishing industry.U giving them a bad image becuz of there descision.If i was them u would be of the team before u finished typing the thread.Eveyone has skeletons in the closet,should we look at every fisherman?

[Walleyepro]

Yep!!
Yes, I have done some things that have gotten me trouble, then my Dad spanked me and I never did it again. Mike got spanked by Ranger and I hope he learned from it. He will get another boat sponsor for sure, but he'll have to kiss some butt and promise not to do it again. Time will tell.

[tons]

David i was saying this about your comment to berkley just to clarify this

[Juls_OH]

You should know a little more about a man, before you make statements like that tons...:shame:
Besides, there's a BIG difference between a "skeleton in a closet" and a negative public display in front of millions of viewers! That's what's in question here.
No Pro Angler is striving to become the President of the United States, so those skeleton's, that everyone seemingly has, can stay locked in their closets. Those are non-issues.

Juls

[CWS]

Awsome post! Glad to I'm not the only one that can't sleep.

[Fishing Insider]

Here's something to think about. The fact that he was wearing a Toyota shirt while throwing the flag in the lake was not lost on many of the hard working people of this country. I think that definitly touched a nerve with some people.

Pure Fishing put some new marketing people in place a couple years ago and their marketing has taken a turn for the worse. They have abandoned the family-friendly things that made the company great. Eric Naig is working for these people and he doesn't carry as much influence as you would like Dave. Just a FYI.

I think it is unclear to people that Mike's screaming and actions are a show. It is an act to get publicity. It worked fairly well for a time, but I believe it is coming back to haunt him. I believe his actions the day he got DQed was a compilation of arrogance that came out of all the attention he is getting for that act. That was a true temper tantrum thrown by a guy who was deceived into thinking he could do no wrong. For those who say the punishment didn't fit the crime, I will say that if I was the marketing director of one of his sponsoring companies I would drop him like a hot potato. If I was tournament director I would have sent him home immediately. I think they were way to easy on him. Like Denny Brauer said right on camera, he's a jerk, and he's in 51st place why are we talking about him?

[Threaten]

That's good....put down Ike and threaten to break his legs?! Is that representative of the VFW? Condone that kinda talk and put down Ike's actions?

VFW

[The written word]

All this talk, so I go to the site to find out for myself! I look under the mission statement and the principles.

Here it is:

"The values that guide (said company) over the years, a culture has evolved at (said company). It's an unspoken set of guidlines. A way of doing things. A feeling about what kind of behavior is right, and whar kind isn't."


Mission statements are printed, I thought they were the guidelines for these sorts of things? Take this anglers actions as you may, but someone is paying the bills. If that someone see's what they beleive to be damanging to their company and what they stand for, they should have every right to what they seem fit.

[Sunshine]

What? What did you say Juls? I can't become president by fishing the PWT? Now I'm crushed ;( I thought that PWT stood for presidential winning team

:rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao:

[SUPERTROLLER]

His screaming is all an act. You don't have to scream every time you catch a 14" fish. Maybe once in awhile with something 4 lbs. or bigger but you don't really want everyone within sight of you locking on to your spot where you just caught a fish. Pump your fist and say something for the cameraman but you don't have to scream on every fish. His act has gone from new and different to old and stale. It's time for him to give it a rest. Maybe act like he's done it before and plans to do it again so it's not that big of a deal. Act like a professional fisherman not a shock jock.

[Jim Carroll]

Another opinion about Ike/Ranger. Snip from Keith Nighswonger's Brushpile @ http://www.probassanglers.com/brushpile5.htm

3/01/06 Mike Ike....In what most assuredly won't be the last we hear of it, the fall out over Mike Iaconelli's melt down has begun. It was announced yesterday that Ranger has dropped Mike Iaconelli from it's professional team. According to BassFan.com, Randy Hopper, the President of Ranger Boats made a statement that essentially withdrew Ranger's sponsorship of Iaconelli based on Mike's conduct at the Classic.

OK, fine, all is fair in love, war and bass fishing however, I can't help but wonder if there are other factors at work here. Oh, don't get me wrong, Iaconelli made a "bass" out of himself, which cannot be denied. But still, with the present landscape of our sport, isn't it just a little ironic that Ranger is the FLW Tour's boat, while Mike Iaconelli is a BASS Elite Series Pro? All I want to know is did Mike's commitment to the BASS Elite Series, make the Ranger decision a little easier?

Do you see the politics here? The present landscape was created by the tournament organizations. In the last year or so we have seen Greg Hackney, and Aaron Martens both solid Ranger guys, slide over to Triton, while we have seen Luke Clausen, who ironically won the FLW Tour Championship as a Triton/Mercury Pro cross over to Ranger/Yamaha, (and win the Classic,) and of course Ron Shuffield, a former Triton/Mercury Pro, has announced that he will be a Ranger/Yamaha Pro from this point on as he is going to fish FLW and not BASS.

With pros having to decide which tour to fish based on the boat they drive, or the truck they pull their boat with, credibility in each tour is compromised. How can either organization claim a World Champion, when they are both so ####-bent on pushing their sponsor's pros to the forefront? Do you know who Bassmaster.com has featured on their web site today? Preston Clark! Preston Clark, (Triton/Mercury,) who I think the world of, having met him this past week, however, he is the guy who didn't win, but "Did Just Fine, Too!" Both organizations are too deep into their sponsors and the fans suffer. I will say this, BASS at least allowed Luke Clausen to represent his bread and butter. BASS didn't break out the masking tape or use "fuzzy photography," I'm sure Toyota didn't want to see Chevy on stage all three days.

Mike Iaconelli messed up, not only did he give his boat sponsor a reason to drop him, he also talked trash on the company (Triton,) that would likely have picked him up. However, that being said, in this era of boat company-tournament organization alignment. It is easy to see where politics could have entered the decision making process to drop Ike from Ranger. The "We are a family oriented business," statement gets lost in the fog of boat company-tournament organization politics.

[Sauger Bob]

Ya too bad the major sport's sponsors don't do the same thing. Was what he did that bad, or was it just caught on TV? I have to chuckle because of some of the behaviors I've witnessed over the years fishing tournaments.(Ya some even in my own boat- but I don't have any sponsors) One that especially comes to mind was during the RCL's first stop on the Illinois River. A well-known and respected pro really let his co-angler have it for a lost fish. Granted I don't know what events led up to the outburst, but I do know the co-angler got a butt chewing for making the same mistake twice. The pro I was fishing with that day even made the comment that it was a good thing it wasn't being taped. My point is not to rip on anyone in particular but just simply to put things into perspective- it is fishing and a missed fish sometimes evokes an emotional response. Ranger probably saw it as a way just to get a little more publicity. Does anyone recall the incident two years ago during the basmasters when one tournament angler was approached by a local who was upset the pro ripped through a no wake zone and swamped his boat and dock and almost drowned his dog? It was live and it took a minute or so for the producers to cut away-when the tv announcer came back they ripped the local for harrassing a tourney angler. I was wondering who that pro was?

[come on]

Jim;

While I do understand where you are trying to go with this, I feel a need to respond.

1st "pro" fishermen are NOT what drives this sport, SPONSORS make all this happen. Sure you can hold tournaments were people play for just the money they invest. However without the sponsors paying the BIG time dollars to put these events on, there would'nt be events. Have any idea what it costs to air 15 hours of bass fishing? While anglers are a big part of the game, they are not the whole thing. Over the past few years we keep hearing about how the anglers need more. SOMEONE has to pay for that, right?

NO one forces any of us to fish tournaments for a living, if you don't like the tour format, it's simple DON'T fish it. If it's the only game in town and where the money is, you can simply follow the rules to play. In order to make it to the highest level you will need exposure, you can't get that without sponsors paying for the rights to it! If these people don't want to play by the rules of each tour than they should just work as a sales Rep for the compaines. EGO is starting to kill this sport, everyone thinks they are bigger than the game. Problem is the game has to be payed for to make it a game and draw interest to each angler fishing.

Creating a tour and investing in anglers cost sponsors money, they in return hope it comes back in the form of sales. Not bad press!

[tons]

Well said wolverine

[mitch2]

Well put Juls. I agree with you completely. I get tired of watching his antics on television and he just went a bit too far this time around.

[HARSH]

Reading this thread, I hesitaited to reply to it. As it is a topic that affects all tournament anglers, we need to accept our opinions as anglers will vary.

Regarding the DQ and subsequent dropping of Mike Iconnelli by Ranger Boats:

Mr.Iconnelli's behaviour did take place on national TV before a large audience. As competitors we have all experienced frustrations in tournament fishing for various reasons. How we act on them is where we can get ourselves into trouble. In the heat of the moment, throwing a temper tantrum with the cameras running and taking out your frustrations against anything with the American Flag attached to it was a very poor decision. Releasing a dead fish in a catch and release tournament on national TV (or in any situation) did not advance the sport either, rules or not. Mr. Iconnelli has stated that he is an emotional person and we have all seen the positive side of Ike when things go well. Sadly, we have now seen the negative side of being too emotional when the day does not go well. On another post an individual refered to this incident as "Happy Gillmore behaviour". I would agree with that statement and conclude that the "Happy Gillmore" routine does not bode well for any competitive sport. I listened to Mike's comments on TV, read the apology letter and thought both sounded a little too much like excuses rather than an apology.

Ranger's decision to drop Mike I. was one that I am sure was done with no joy and very difficult to do. The Professionalism part of the contracts I have seen does not allow for extreme negative behavior. Exercising that option was Rangers Boats perogative.

In future tournament fishing hopefuly Mike I. will be a little more subdued when the day does not go well. Mike is a very talented angler who, I suspect will be around for a long time. This incident Mike I. should look upon as a learning experience, albeit a very difficult one. I do wish Mike Iconnelli well, even a serious mistake such as this incident should not end a career.

Pete Harsh / MR.TILLER

[tons]

Hi Jules I think what he did was wrong no question about that.Ranger made the descision which is there right and have know problem with as i hold ranger in hi regard.David on the other hand threating to drop them and give them bad publicity is so selfish,some people like to dictate which he is doing.I won 3 companies if i fired every guy for the wrong move it would be a tough go.As for the american flag cmon people lets get real,his intentions of degradingthe american flag is just unbeleivable.I am candaian and have many american friends it is agreat countty and to try and think ike doesnt is just unbelievable, All i can say is some ppl head to also have compassion.

[bob oh]

Come on! ESPN shouldn't have aired it. Do you want someone to censor everything you see and read? Maybe the government should make those decisions for you.

rod bender bob

[rangerless]

Would like to think that all Americans have respect for the American Flag and Ike just let his frustrations get the best of him that day. I don’t think he purposely defamed the American Flag. It’s true we need to be compassionate, but that includes being compassionate about one anothers opinions. David is showing his compassion on the subject by standing by what he believes in.

[Joe Jensen]

Pete, I couldn't agree with you more. I think earlier Gordy pointed out a similar fact, as a member of a competitive and a sponsered environment we nedd to conduct ourselves in a RESPECTABLE manner!

I believe Ranger made a good decission. Others involved in all of the tournament competitions should take note that there is no reason to have a total disregard for rules and/or State regulations not to mention behavior. Tournament fishing regarless of the level has to continue to have competitors that will promote tournament fishing and fishing in general. There is and has been enough black eye issues that adversly effect what I believe is a enjoyable and passion for myself and I am sure a vast majority of others on this site.

While I say this, I just want to add the fact that I don't feel it was in good taste or benefical in any way to air such a display.

Best to all!!
Joe Jensen

[tons]

Hi rangerless Tryin to make berkley drop mike is unbeleievable.He is trying to dictate what berkley does with regards to this.David did not make the right move and im sure some of his other sponsors will be happy to hear how he dictates what companies do.Lesson learned never threaten anyone.Im sad to hear some ppl replys to my posts.Maybe david should buy berkley.U made berkley out as a bad company in an idirect way.Ps did they not give u enuff fireline

[Ryan Kelly unlogged]

Being a senior at Ortonville High School I was a little surprised that last week the talk at the lunch table was. who was going to watch the Classic? A few people talked to me about it and told me they started following it after reading about Mike Iaconelli in ESPN magazine. They thought his antics were halarious and had changed their view on professional fishing. Saturday morning I tuned in to ESPN2 and learned that he had been disqualified on day one due to bad sportsmanship. My original reaction was anger towards him for flubbing up on the Classic like that, but after watching the video my reaction went from anger towards him, to confusion. All his fish died, so he swore and threw his light pole in the lake. BIG DEAL!!
There was no intention to degrade the flag, and there was no pun intended towards America. It wasn't too many classics ago when "The King" Denny Brauer lost a fish at the boat and threw his rod and swore. No DQ's there. Shure Mike "Iked out" but isn't that what he is getting rewarded for? Isn't that what makes it interesting?
It is the highs and lows that come with professional fishing that other anglers are afraid to show but are what Mike has exelled in. He captued our interest and bumped the ratings. The human made a simple mistake. Not to be made again.
Ranger has always been the gold standard in boats. And I have long dreamed of owning one. But their latest move in dropping Mike has also dropped them a level in my eyes. I can only hope they have a change of heart, but at this point I feel it is not possible.

This is just my view of things.

[rangerless]

I wasn't implying that Berkley was a bad company or that Ike should not be sponsored by them, the point was about compassion for individuality. We all have opinions and David obviously feels strongly about his. Just because David is asking this of Berkley does not mean that it's right; or that Berkley should meet his request, or that I support that request. The replies to all are good. Gives different perspectives.

[tons]

Someone with compassion and a heart well said.I also wish rager would forgive,but i stand behind any descision they make,it does not make me thinkof them any differently, they are one of the best boat companys and supporters of tournament fishing which i trully love. Nuff said

[Juls_OH]

Hi Tons,
I just re-read Mr. Kraft's two posts, and no where did he "threaten" Berkley to get rid of Ike. He said he asked that they reconsider their position. That's not a threat.

He didn't say, "If they don't get rid of Mike, I will drop them". He had already made the decision to drop them, becasue of their publicly stated stance on it all, and then AFTER he resigned their sponsorship, he asked them to reconsider their postition in regards to Ike.

No threat there at all.

I also don't think Ike is "unpatriotic"...I think he acted before thinking, when it came to attacking the light with the flag on it. It was just a dumb move made in frustration, but it was still an action HE decided (in the heat of the moment) to make. Someone in front of a camera, that they KNOW is running, should have more control of their emotions. Is it passion? I don't think so. Is it an uncontrollable temper? Most likely.

I have a feeling Mike will get passed all this, and move forward. He will be OK. He's a very smart guy. I also think we will probably see another side of Mike in future on the water broadcasts. I don't think he will be playing the ESPN puppet/joker anymore. I think we will see more of the "real" Mike out there, rather than the "punk" Mike we have been watching. Who really knows but him though...we'll just have to wait and see.

Juls

[tons]

Hi jules He did state he would not fish on the berley team,that is a indirect threat.It also shows that he does not support his sponsor which to state publicly is very unprofessionalin a business standpoint.If he didnt like there descision he should have kept it between them.O ther sponsors that wish to take him on better think twice about who they sign up.Berkley does lots for walleye fishin and bass fishin and too make them look bad in therer descision is very selfish

[Ted white]

All I can say is BRILLIANT Mike! If people didn't know you before, they definetly know you now! Just look at the buzz you generated here. Mike (and his wallet/career) will be fine!!

[jigstop]

I will not defend someone for desicrating the flag, but did he actually try to desicrate it? Or did the flag just happen to be on the pole and the pole is what he lashed out at in anger?

I saw a lot of athletes at the olympics wrap the flag around them which I feel is being very disrecpectfull to the flag but I don't hear anybody screaming about that.

I see a lot of pro fisherman act like jerks all the time, why does all the critisism fall only on Ike? The opening credits for the PWT show shows a guy win a tournament and is handed a plague, he then waves it in the air and IMHO looks like a fool! Do we critisize him for looking like a fool?

Mr. Kroft may have troubles getting sposors if they knew that he came on a web site and bashed his current sponsors for a decision that the sponsor made. You may say that he didn't bash them but in reality he did, he may have said it in a PC way but it was a bash non the less.

[bw]

Do you think Dave is going to change what berkley thinks and Dave just got on with Ranger! Big deal.

[Jim Carroll]

More Ike comments from Bassfan.com

http://www.bassfan.com/news_article.asp?ID=1627

Ike Talks Ranger Loss,
Comments On Incident

Wednesday, March 01, 2006


Mike Iaconelli's looking for a boat sponsor and wants people to look at some of the positive things he's doing, like working with youth.


Mike Iaconelli was released from the Ranger Boats pro staff yesterday due to his behavior at the recent Bassmaster Classic. BassFan printed Ranger's statement about the situation yesterday, but here's what Ike had to say.

"I'm sorry they (Ranger) made that decision," he said. "I think it's a great company, and a great product. I had a great affiliation with them for a number of years and it's not a bitter departing. I have no hard feelings for Ranger. I wish them nothing but the best. They had to make a decision and they decided to let me go."

And he again stated that the outburst was a mistake. "I reiterate what I said – I made a mistake, and I handled it the wrong way. All I can do is realize I'm human, that I made a mistake, move forward and be more aware of my actions and try to learn from it. I've got a long season ahead and I need to keep moving forward."

He added: "Sometimes things happen in life when you make a mistake – have an error in judgment. You can look at it and say, 'That was horrible,' or say, 'Look, I made a mistake,' then look at what the mistake was about and make sure you never do it again. I love this sport, and I'm going to keep moving forward with it."

BassFan received hundreds of Feedback letters from readers who took issue with Ike's treatment of the American flag during the episode.

"Again, my actions were in no way directed toward the flag," he said. "At that point, what was going through my mind was, 'Here I am on the first day of the Classic with dead and dying fish.' My mind scrambled on, 'How did this happen? How can I get these fish living again?'

"In a fit of rage, I wasn't thinking about the flag. It didn't register in my mind. If it would have registered, obviously I would have stopped. Again, with this flag issue, I don't want there to be any question: It was in no way directed toward the flag.

"If it had registered, even halfway through – if I realized, 'Oh, that's the flag' – of course I would have stopped.

"If I could go back in time, never in a million years would I do that again knowing the flag was involved."

Has Boat, Needs Sponsor

Because Ranger parted ways with Iaconelli, he's now looking for a new boat sponsor. "As of today I don't have anything in front of me," he said. "As soon as I figure out a new boat sponsor, I'll move forward with a new one."

Although he's known as a rebel within the sport, he's also known for his work with kids. Some consider him to be the strongest promoter of the sport among youth.

"Whether it's Ranger, or other sponsors or fans, I'd also want them to stop for a second and look at some of the positives I'm doing," he said. "I love working with the kids, and with Junior Bassmaters. So I'm doing positive things and I hope people don't lose sight of some of the things I do."

He'll still run his wrapped Ranger, which he had to purchase, next week at Lake Amistad, Texas for the Bassmaster Elite Series event there.

"We're so close on time, I'm going to run with the boat I'm presently in until another deal comes about," he said. "It could be a week, a month, a half-year – I don't know at this point.

"Right now, my focus is to go out perform and do the best I can in tournaments and make sure I get the exposure for my sponsors on my wrap. A new boat and new wrap? It's just a matter of when that deal comes about."

Notable

> Ike's wrap is a conglomerate of signage from his different sponsors that incorporates the flame theme of his tournament uniform.

[koenigsfeld]

In my opinion, being a Professional is more than being in the upper eschelon of your respective field. It is also about how you control your emotions and present yourself at all times.
Dave Kraft: I fished with you on Lake Erie. You are a great guy and excellent fisherman. I understand and appreciate your position. I am proud of you for standing up for what you believe in.

Juls and Mr. Harsh: I have fished with you as well. You both are wonderful people and excellant anglers.
The 3 of you as well as all the other pros I have fished with and met have been Professionals in my definition.
Thank you all.

[great move]

Great Move Dave! I know Eric, and it will be interesting to see what happens down the road.

[Joe Jensen]

Mike, while you have some good points your comparison to sweet labor shops is a bit extreme. The situation hear is that tournament fishing is constantly fighting an uphill battle in the public eye. It does not have the notarity of a lot of professional sports to be able to tolerate this type of PUBLIC behavior. If a person is fortunate enough to have the earned the position that Ike did, then he has an obligation (especially in public/TV) to conduct himself properly and know that in the majority of situations that you can not cull DEAD fish. This especially is a HUGH mistake in the public eye. People here in Minnesota constantly comment on the results of tournament fishing and the dead fish the may find from the aftermath of a tournament.

So as to not continue being long winded I will close in saying that your comaprisons to sweet shops copuld not be further from the point. What he did was wrong and I again praise the sponsers who made and or make the decission to not reward individuals of this type, regadless of there sucessful abilities. There are others who are equally talented and may be able to controll themselves better
Joe Jensen

[Joe Jensen]

Sorry about the typo's, in a hurry!!!! Opps

[Burr]

>Come on! ESPN shouldn't have aired it. Do you want someone to
>censor everything you see and read?

>rod bender bob

bob - correct me if I'm wrong - but didn't ESPN buy BASS? My point being, if ESPN owns BASS, and they are willing to air it, it pretty much means BASS is now about ESPN ratings above ALL else. How good is that?

It's not for the promotion of the sport, it's not for presenting BASS in a good light, and it appears to be a parent (ESPN) that would sacrifice a child (insert pro angler name here) for it's own benefit.

I would hope the sport is able to move forward - and in this case, ESPN seems to be willing to sacrifice maybe too much.

All the while, here we are talking about the guy who finished 51st out of 51. Probably time to move on too.

[Juls_OH]

Thanks Scott! That was day one at Devils Lake last year that we fished together, right? That was a fun day for sure! You were a great partner, and kept me giggling all day! It was one of those days I won't soon forget! :cheers:

Juls

[tons]

Figured u had no reply jules,anyways ppl are who they are always good to know for real.

[Juls_OH]

huh? reply to what tons?

[tons]

U know im done with this post some peoples kids wow.

[Juls_OH]

Ohhhh K? If you're referring to your last response to mine about Mr. Kraft and Berkley...I figured it was a dead horse. You have your opinion and I have mine. No sense beating a dead horse I say. I gave you the last word...lol

Have a good one tons! I'm done with this one too. Mike will be just fine, and he will go on and have a great future in this sport. He has too much talent not to. I also think, or at least it's my impression, that he has learned a tough lesson, but he has taken it to heart, and hasn't blown it off.

I certainly won't hold it against him. I think/know there is A LOT more to this story than what is getting out on these message boards.

See ya on the water "Canada"!

Take care,

Juls

[tons]

I agree nuff said,See uat red wing ,hope u do well at detroit river.Take care Canada walleye hunter Dont beat me up too bad in redwing

[kuzone unlogged]

Juls,
Thanks - one great thing about America.....we can all aggree to disaggree! I said I don't own a Ranger, but I have fished in a lot of them.
My only issues with Rangers on Erie is they tend to "nose" in with waves/swells bigger than 3 feet (sometimes at 2 feet depending). You know better than I that you sometimes get out to the border and the lake is calm there and, on the way back - with just enough time to get in under the wire, you find that there are 3-4 footers on the southern side of the lake. It gets too dicey for me and I prefer a Sylvan, Lund or Crestliner for these rides. Actually, I prefer a 27 foot Offshore for these rides, but I can only afford one boat!!
Thanks again Juls!

[kuzone unlogged]

Dave,
The flag part was ACCIDENTAL...did you see it? I watched the whole thing...before ESPN editing. He kicked the light pole and it bent. That is all. Nobody said it was OK either (the flag part), but it was INCIDENTAL to the outburst and not specifically why he was dropped.
Also, as a LIFETME member of the VFW, and a vet of 2 "overseas excursions" - with no fishing, I do not think I would break any legs for this. Which post do you belong to? I might need to stay away, even if the beers are a quarter.
Mike

Also - relative to another post. The sweat shop comparison was only to highlight that there are MANY, MANY more and better reasons to stop using a specific product. Yes - I know it was extreme, but it is real.

[Capt. Paul]

He got what he deserved, temper tantrums have no place at his level of competition.

[Fishing Insider 2]

>"In a fit of rage, I wasn't thinking..."< Mike Iaconelli.

Fits of rage obviously do not belong on the highways or on the water. Iaconelli being DQ'ed and losing a sponsorship is penalty and proof of that.

[DUDE]

Ryan,
What Mike did was plan and simply embarrased his sponsers. When some company is paying you to represent them, you are working for them. You don't work for yourself anymore, but for the people who are paying you. I work at UPS, if while working in my UPS uniform and I did something like he did, I would get fired. Plain and simple, Mike Iconnelli got fired from Ranger. You said that you are a senior in High School, let this be a lesson for you so you don't make the same mistake. When you work for someone, you are representing them in all you do. There have been times when I wanted to say something derogatory to customers, but didn't cause I new what the concequences could be if I did.

[David Kraft]

Let me try to clear some air on where I personally stand on this whole thing.

First of all, I don't think that Mike I. on purpose threw the American Flag into the water. I believe that he did not realize what he did until after the incident was over.

I made a mistake by trying to post a simple post. I should have realized that by making a simple statement, without going into ALL of the details that were on my mind at the time I made the posting, I was making a mistake.

One of the great things about this site is that people do not have to post their names. I choose to post my name so people at least know who they are replying to.

When I made my post, I was in no way "threating" Berkley as some have indicated. Who am I to threaten Berkley. Berkley makes many great products, and no one will ever hear me bad mouth any of the products that Berkley has. I have reviewed my posts several times, and I cannot figure out how I threatened Berkley or tried to bad mouth Berkley. I simply tried to say that I did not support the decision of Berkley to continue to be a sponsor of Mike I. I, as someone being sponsored by Berkley have of an obligation to support Berkley. In this case, I can not support their decision. Therefore, I have contacted Eric Naig and asked to be removed from my Berkley sponsorship. I also realize that Eric Naig does not control the thinking within Berkley, but I used Eric's name only because that is who I deal with and through. I have known Eric for many years and consider him a friend - in no way do I think that Eric had the final say on who is and is not sponsored by Berkley.

Another point I would like to clarify concerns my "simple" post of only pointing out the incident of the American Flag. I only mentioned the Flag incident as that is what was being posted at the time. But, what also concerned me was the watching of Mike I. throw back a bass that appeared to be dead, and in fact was reported by ESPN as a non live fish. But, ESPN clarified the BASS rules as stating it was not against BASS rules to cull such a fish. They also went on to state that it might be a violation of Forida Game and Fish rules, but there was no one there from Florida Game and fish to witness the incident. (Now I am probably in real trouble as I don't remember the exact verbave that was used). If I remember correctly, ESPN even mentioned something about the wanton waste of wildlife.

The final thing that upset me was when Mike I. was interviewed that evening, and the next morning, and he said that he disagreed with the reasons he was DQ's as he did not think he had did anything wrong.

I have my principles that I live my life by. But, I will not compromise my principles for fame, money, or fireline.

Dave Kraft

[dutchboy]

:cheers:

Ya know, that's what I thought you said.

Kudo's Dave, keep up the good work.

[ArtCo]

Mr. Dude,

You might also tell Ryan that in the real world, people like Dale Jarrett who is sponsored by your company can drive, unlike yourself, like a total idiot. He can play bumper tag, you can not. Dale can can put someone's life in danger, you can not.

Take a look at sports in general, when is that last time any player really lost a sponsor because of attitude. If you go to a baseball, football, or hockey game, and look at the sponsored arena's and fields. Did one of these sponsors ever tell a team,you have to get rid of so and so because he hit a batter on purpose. What about game clearing brawls, nope, they never do.I stopped watching baseball because it boring, not because the bench clearing brawls offended me.

We all have principles, but come on. Do we go into our churches, synagogues., temples and sit down next to someboby and asked them what their sin was for the week? And if we did get a reply and we did not like the sin, are we going to leave the church, etc, and never come back. Like I said before, Ike screwed up, but the young guy brings excitment to the sport. Name one, just one walleye pro that shows half of Ike's passion with emotion. That's the reason ESPN is promoting it's little B.A.S.S prize. Also watching that little Japanese guy get excited in those Bass tourney's is hoot. The difference between watching Walleye Pro's and Bass Pro's on T.V. is night and day. Watching Bass Pros gets my blood pumping, watching Walleye Pro's on T.V. is watching paint dry. Except of course Parsons and Keith K. on their Reel Deal Show. So the next time your on camera, give a little scream, give a little holler, stomp your foot now and then to show us your at least alive in the boat. Nuff said.

[JLDII]

:popcorn:

I can only imagine how much hoopla everyone would be raising if this had happened during a walleye tournament!! :stick:

Hopefully, all the walleye circuits will take this lead and follow suit in the future with some of the questionable behavior that exsists within our own ranks. It wouldn't hurt our sport in the least.

That said, I think we all need some open water and a good tug on the end of our lines. Its that time of year.

[yojo]

joe,
unfortunately, ask anyone who won the classic and they might not know.
Ask them who was the biggest idiot, the will tell you. Welcome to America. We have been responding favorably to sensational journalism for a long time and this Ike "controversy" proves that nothing will change soon. Let's not forget that the Media loves this kind of stuff.

[nojackhere]

Jack,
You better watch out if they raise the standards in competitive walleye fishing! You might not be allowed in!!!
hehe

[The Right To An Opinion]

You have a right to an opinion and on this issue many of us agree with that opinion. Iaconelli's behaviour was controversial to say the least. Your posting on W/C is appreciated and informative. Please do not quit posting here as some Pros have done.

[Scott K]

Day one at Devil's Lake. Thanks Juls

[JLDII]

I know,...us bobber fishermen get NO RESPECT!!

[FuzzyIL]

"3. I don't fish Rangers anyway (mostly a Lake Erie guy - and they don't handle the walleye chop)."

Now that is a heaping load of BS!!

[G. Gray]

Hi Dave


I commend you on your decisiion, as You know, I am also a vet, having served 21 1/2 yrs. My belief's are, if you don't like our Flag, get out of the Country, and find one you do.

I know, I am no longer active in the fishing world as I was before, but Berkly better wake up and smell the rose's, before the Rose's turn to Fertilizer.

Ike's actions, were beyond the reason we are called Professional's, and for that reason, that Day, Ike, should have stepped in front of the camera, right on stage, and said," I am Disqualifing myself for my actions on the water today, I just lost it at the moment", but he did not! Therefore, he is now responsible for his own actions, after the fact, and will become the traditional Sacrificial Lamb. I commend Ranger for their decission, and hope the rest follow.

Gary Gray

[Ranger FAN]

>Kobe Bryant lost his endorsments for raping a girl, this
>punishment fit the crime. This guy beat up a light pole and
>used bad language (none of which had to be shown on TV) and
>you people can't wait to take away his livelyhood. I doubt
>BASS will ban him from tourney fishin, getting DQ'd for the
>day was an eye opener to him I'm sure. I can see the meeting
>today at Berkely, there will be 20 guy's at the conferebce
>table and 1 guy will bring up the fact that Dave Kraft no
>longer wants to be sponsored because IKE is still with them
>and 19 out of the 20 guy's are gonna say "who's Dave Kraft?".
>
>I don't think he'll have to wait too long for a new boat
>sponsor. This guy appeals to allot of kids, allot of kids that
>will be buying boats in the future. Ranger got their temporary
>publicity by doing this but in the long run they will sell
>less boats and selling boats is all they care about anyway.

You think Ranger will sell less boats because of this?

Then you do not understand Ranger's employees, their customers, it's image, it's history, southern ethics, or Forrest Wood's legacy.

There are plenty more Ike's in the world, and they can fish in something else. Ike can go represent some other company who isn't concerned about their image.

[KCTV]

CWS,

Are there no consequences for any actions anymore??? Ever??? Ahhhh, he didn't mean it... Ahhhh it's ESPN's fault.... Big Ike was never forced by anyone to act like a moron...he chose this persona and now he's faced with dealing with the CONSEQUENCES. There have been good results (for him) both financially and in exposure, but there are also negative consequences. Where does it say Ranger is required to financially reward someone who they feel does not represent their company the way they want it represented? Personally I'm encouraged to see any entity that's willing to say "enough is enough...". I like Mike and I know he's a great stick but he crossed a boundary and there needs to be consequences for that...otherwise what have we got? Even Mike, when you read his response on bassfan, seems to realize this and I respect that a lot more than someone who is willing to just laugh these things off or blame it on someone else.

I just wonder what Ike'll be fishing in....I'd say Triton is probably out...

CK

[K Gonefishin]

I like how he called it Rage, dude come on your fishing it's not like your sweating on hot roof installing shingles in Arizona and your wife is cheating on you and you know it, and when you come home you find your dog dead, then I could see rage.

I feel that any pro in any sport should be fined, thrown out, contracts tore up, sponsors drop whatever it takes to teach that so called "pro" a lesson even Ron Artest in the NBA if I were the head of the league he would never shoot again. TV ratings Blah Blah Blah, your a pro and should conduct you self like on on the water or off, on the field or off. I don't have any feelings for someone when they break the rules of any sport as you shouldn't do it, expecially if you are being paid to be there in one companies boat and wearing the gear you are suppose to. If he was CEO of a company do you think he would act or respond to something that went wrong in a unruly way, the investors would force him to stand down immediatly and would force a resignement on his part.

Don't act like a 8 year old that's not getting a happy meal be happy you have the money to buy the happy meal and deal with what comes with that like an adult.

I hope nobody picks him up and he can't fish. It was fun while it lasted huh MIKE the IKE<.

[well said]

Well said, If this was a corporation and he acted like that...he would get his walking papers immediately. I think it's ridiulous the sporting world gives leeway/more chances to pro athletes that conduct themselves so unprofessionally, in the public eye! These people are living a dream, and they should act accordingly!

[Ranger FAN]

To answer your question.

If it would not have been our FLAG, this would have been just another temper tantrum by a spoiled brat who wasn't raised properly.

But, it was our FLAG.
If a person cannot control his temper enough to keep from desecrating our FLAG, he needs psychlogical help.

The guy is now a bonafide and certified idiot, no matter how good a fisherman he may otherwise be.

I am old school. We still said the Pledge every morning when I went to school. And, we meant it.

[LOL]

attaboy Bob.

I agree with you.
Nobody spun this one. It was the real deal.
It is sad to realize that so many people are used to spun and censored "news".
This was just the plain old, real thing.
The only one to blame on all this is Mike. waaaa waaaa.

[fishhogg]

Whatever happened to taking responsibilty for one's actions? What "IKE" did was childish. And when children misbehave they should be punished in order to learn from their mistakes, "IKE" is being punished. I don't believe he intentionaly threw the flag in the water, not by a long shot, but it was on the end of the pole that he kicked and pulled out of the boat in a fit all the while using profanity, and then tossed in the water, with camera running. Mike knew the camera was there, and just kept going. He must now take responsiblity for his actions. I was more put back by him looking in the camera after his temper tantrum and taunting "that you can put that on tv". I am not a big "IKE" fan, at first it was novel but the whole act has worn rather thin with me, this is just the topper. I commend Ranger for their move, and am questioning Berkley for theirs. As far as compassion for having a bad day? When I have been caught having a temper tantrum and losing my cool and doing something stupid, I have had to take my lumps over the years. Hopefully "IKE" will learn from this and grow up and take on the responsibilty that his popularity has given him!

[Marty]

okay, I'm just a visitor and wanted to chime in on this......

Enough of the bashing, he know's he was in the wrong, we all know he was in the wrong. Their's a certain amount of professionalism one must maintain even on the water and in front of the cameras/spectators and his actions were unacceptable and I really don't think he was out to "trash" the American flag intentionally. I think in his situation or anybody's for that matter with a half million dollars on the line it's tough to maintain ones composure after realizing the mistake he made could've been prevented. He brings to the sport of fishing a new degree of enthusiasm and carisma that has'nt been seen before and I do enjoy watching him. I'm fairly young and have a great deal to learn about alot of things...we all do, you guys/gals cannot tell me that in all the years you've been fishing that it's been a perfect ride, I for one don't believe so. Just my 2-cents worth and I wish you all well on the water and I'm sure Ike will get through this okay one way or another. For all you vets that have jumped in I thank you for what you've sacrificed for what I enjoy.....Freedom!!!!

God bless

[tons]

glad u dont fish any more with comments like that,how many tomes ppl have to be told he did not intentionally do that too the flag and im not even american.Gary bad things come to ppl that talk bad

[Sunshine]

Tons,

Let it go buddy! You've stated your opinion on this subject numerous times now. You even said 'nuf said.

Gary is one of the most respected fishermen here on WC and the tournament trails that he fished. You have no idea of the caliber of person that you just insulted. Saying things like: “bad things come to ppl that talk bad” is not very friendly.

You have no idea why Gary has not done tournaments lately. And you do not know the MAN.

Move on
:shame:

[tons]

yes u are right i dont know him,U know what im not going to post here ever again its unbelievable that the fishing world doesnt standbehind him.Sponsors like ranger and berkley have the right to comment becuz he does where there colors,but people on the outside bashing berkley and him is just so unprofessional.I guess i just wont read this post anymore so i dont get mad.People if u have nothin to say dont say it.Thats trully a sportsman later

[rangerless]

Don't stop posting, the whole idea of the post is to share thoughts and ideas. Everyone just feels strongly about their opinions and were all taken it a little personally. Keep on postin Tons. Nuff Said lol

[tons]

rangerless i think fishin is a sport and a place to meet ppl and all get along.Yes and have bad days i want to keep a positive attitude ,but some ppls opinions makeit hard .Dont want to say anything becuz ppl alway seem to think the worst here,so its better i say nothing.Gary Gray could be the nicest guy in the world and a vet for 21 yrs ,berkley has done more fishin than gary gray will ever do,but dont judge either by that.Like i said bad talk brings back bad thing i live by that sorry.

[rangerless]

Tons, that's a good start you replied lol Just remember they're only opinions. Just as you wanted to be heard so did others. Just because others don't agree doesn't mean it's the worst outcome. Keep that positive attitude and keep on fishing and posting!

[cws]

It seems to me it was an awful quick decision. It's too bad he wasn't given much time to express regrets. Maybe they gave him that opportunity and he told em to F.O., I don't know. I've worked in a family business my whole life & we've alway's given emplyees 2nd, 3rd chances to redeem themselves. We've stood by em through DUI's, lost licences and countless other FUBARS. We do find away to 86em when it comes to steeling and or bad performance/attitude but the good employees screw up as well (including myself) & we still think of the positives in people. It is a family business though and people are treated as such, not like in coorporate america where your workin 1 day and your not the next...with no warning. I think Ranger (Genmar) falls into coorporate america category. Thanks for your hard work & efforts but C-YA

Still manufacturing transformers IN AMERICA thank you very much.

[rangerless]

The comments that have transpired from the original post are just getting out of hand. Come on ppl, let's be respectful to on another and remember the purpose of the site. Good Day!

[tons]

Thast the real world.Wellsaid

[Mitch2]

I'm with you Rangerless - New Subject Please!