Project Healing Waters: Veterans find healing through fly fishing, according to Daisy Hargrave from Walter Reed Medical Center. Founded in 2005, the program offers support and community to service members.
St. Lawrence River Tournament Highlights
Evan Kung’s victory at the Bassmaster Elite closed the 2026 season. The event determined the Angler of the Year and Rookie of the Year awards based on cumulative scores from nine events. It wasn’t solely about this final tournament.
McKinney’s Achievement
Trey McKinney dethroned Chris Johnston, who held the Angler of the Year title for two years. At 21, McKinney became the youngest champion, breaking Kevin VanDam’s record from 1992. He weighed the heaviest smallmouth limit in Bassmaster history.
McKinney’s path was challenging. He finished second, trailing by two pounds. Despite this, his focus remained on winning the Angler of the Year title throughout the week.
Kung’s Victory
Evan Kung won the Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River. McKinney shared the nervousness of the final hours but secured his win with a decisive catch.
Rookie of the Year Race
Caleb Hudson won Rookie of the Year from the shore. He led the season but didn’t qualify for the final day. Fisher Anaya needed a top-six finish but came ninth, keeping Hudson ahead.
Hudson described the day as nerve-wracking. Upon winning, he celebrated his mother’s birthday and chose to gift his victory to her.
Anaya missed his chance with challenging conditions and critical losses. He acknowledged Hudson’s deserving victory despite his own setbacks.
Future Stars of Fishing
Young talents made headlines at the St. Lawrence River finale. Between record-breaking achievements and a dramatic Rookie of the Year race, the tournament showcased future stars in the sport.
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