CLAYTON, NEW YORK – Nine anglers surpassed the 100-pound mark at the 2026 Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River, setting a record for most Century Belts awarded at a single smallmouth event in Bassmaster history.
Evan Kung achieved an extraordinary victory by overtaking Trey McKinney on the final day. Kung claimed the tournament win, entering the week with his career hanging in balance.
Evan Kung made a furious final-day charge from behind to run down leader Trey McKinney and steal the tournament win right at the finish, capping a week in which he entered with his Elite Series career on the line.
Kung’s Incredible Comeback
Kung needed a strong finish to maintain his card in the Bassmaster Elite Series. He not only secured it but also earned the Phoenix Boats Big Bass award for a six-pound, 13-ounce catch.
It was a crazy week,” Kung said. “I knew every day going in what I needed to catch just to stay in the Elites. Once I had that locked up, I went out today wanting the Century Belt.
Kung’s gamble paid off when he switched locations on the final day, catching the winning bass in the last 20 minutes.
His technique mainly involved a drop shot pattern, featuring a Great Lakes Finesse prototype bait.
Tournament Dynamics
Kung, trailing by a pound and a half, placed first with a final-day catch of 27 pounds, 12 ounces, pushing his week’s total to 109 pounds, nine ounces. McKinney couldn’t reclaim the lead, falling two pounds short.
Kung expressed gratitude for his support system, including sponsors, friends, family members, and his girlfriend’s family.
Impressive Performances
McKinney, although second at 107 pounds, nine ounces, celebrated earning the Progressive Bassmaster Angler of the Year.
Tucker Smith and Cory Johnston finished third and fourth, with totals of 107 pounds, one ounce, and 106 pounds, seven ounces, respectively.
Cole Sands, fifth, shared his approach resembling trout fishing, emphasizing the importance of reading the current.
Other Century Club members included Brandon Cobb, JT Thompkins, Bryant Smith, and Fisher Anaya.
An Excellent Fishery
The achievement of nine Century Belts highlights St. Lawrence River as a prime fishing location. With goby-fed smallmouth populations and a competitive field, this event stands as one of Bassmaster’s most competitive smallmouth tournaments.
Nine Century Belts in a single weigh-in is proof that the St. Lawrence River is one of the best bass fishing spots in the country.
Though Kung’s name earned a spot on the trophy, the entire field excelled, showcasing the river’s potential.
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