Mike started carving decoys when he became injured and disabled. He had always wanted to carver, but always seemed to be too busy with fishing and working. On a whim, Mike began carving and was instantly “hooked”. (excuse the pun) Carving became therapeutic and took his mind off the pain from my injury. As of 2006, Mike has been carving for under a year now and he informs me that he will probably do this till the day he dies. His enjoys what he does and gains great pleasure from those who collect and use my decoys.
Mike mainly carves fish found in Northern Lower Michigan and patterns from the fish that he has caught over the years, which he is familiar with. Every now and then Mike venture s outside of the known box just to see if he can or if it’s a request from a collector. All of Mike’s decoys are one of a kind. His favorites to carve are Brook Trout and Pike. He makes decoys both directed towards the ice spearer and most recently the folk art collector.
Mike says ” I am continually inspired by some of the old greats and respect others in my field. Art is individual and I believe everyone has their own touch.”
Visit Mike’s Website
Mike “MikeDaPike” Seeley
756 Kettle Lake Rd.
Kalkaska, Michigan 49646
Email mikedapike@charter.net
www.MikeDaPikeDecoys.com
Information and Photos Submitted by Mike Seeley
1/22/06
Mike Seeley
Photo provided by Mike Hale – Cadillac, Michigan