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Ike Makes Some Magic

Iaconelli keeps Classic string alive with Open victory

Ike Makes Some Magic
Mike Iaconellis is feeling it on the water with his biggest catch of the day. (James Overstreet photo)

SANDUSKY, Ohio — In his last best chance at qualifying for the 2014 Bassmaster Classic, Elite Series pro Mike Iaconelli capitalized in a big way as he sacked 24-9 today on Lake Erie, giving him a two-day total of 48-8, nearly four pounds better than runner-up and Erie ringer Joe Balog.

“It’s not real, man, it’s not real,” Iaconelli said in disbelief of his first Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Open win. “When these moments happen, it’s magical. I remember all my wins from club tournaments to this one, and they’re all special.

“It’s been a weird year. I had a bad year on the Elite trail, and I had a lot of downs...

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