Clayton, N.Y. – The Bassmaster Elite tournament on the St. Lawrence River concluded with a historic shift in the sport’s hierarchy. Trey McKinney, a 21‑year‑old from the region, secured the Bassmaster Angler of the Year (AOY) award, becoming the youngest ever to hold the honor and ending Kevin VanDam’s record that stood since 1992.
Season‑long points decide AOY
The AOY and Rookie of the Year titles are awarded based on cumulative points earned across nine regular‑season events, not on a single tournament win. McKinney entered the championship having never fallen outside the top two in the points race, a consistency that set the stage for his breakthrough.
Final tournament performance
Although McKinney finished second in the St. Lawrence River event, just two pounds behind tournament winner Evan Kung, he remained focused on the season‑long goal. “Angler of the Year is the only thing I was thinking about all week,” he said. “I was doing well in the tournament, but that title is what was on my mind.”
McKinney described the final hours on the water as the most nervous he’d ever felt. A late‑day 6‑pound catch on a rocky spot secured the points he needed to lock in the AOY crown.
Record‑breaking achievements
In addition to the AOY title, McKinney set a Bassmaster record for the heaviest five‑fish smallmouth limit ever weighed – 30 lb 11 oz – and earned his own Century Belt, a symbol of a $100,000 season earnings milestone.
Family and faith
After the ceremony, McKinney’s mother took the microphone, thanking supporters and emphasizing the role of faith and family in his success. Their remarks resonated with the community, underscoring the sport’s deep roots in family tradition and personal perseverance.
Rookie of the Year battle
The tournament also settled the Rookie of the Year race. Caleb Hudson, who missed the championship day, held onto the title after fellow rookie Fisher Anaya finished ninth, just short of the points needed to overtake him. Hudson collected a $10,000 bonus from Pro Guide Batteries and noted the timing was special – the win coincided with his mother’s birthday.
“It’s the best birthday present,” Hudson said, smiling.
Looking ahead
McKinney’s achievement signals a generational shift in competitive bass fishing, with younger anglers challenging long‑standing legends. The St. Lawrence River finale will likely be remembered as a turning point, showcasing both emerging talent and the enduring passion of the sport’s community.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
