Young Pro Trey McKinney Becomes the Youngest Angler of the Year Winner in B.A.S.S. History

Young Angler Trey McKinney Achieves B.A.S.S. Milestone

In a remarkable turn of events, Trey McKinney from Carbondale, Illinois, has etched his name in the history books by becoming the youngest Angler of the Year (AOY) winner in B.A.S.S. history. At just 21 years old, McKinney showcased incredible talent and determination throughout the 2026 season, ultimately amassing a total of 735 points, edging out fellow competitor Cory Johnston.

The season culminated with the Lowrance Bassmaster Elite series held at the St. Lawrence River, where McKinney's strategic fishing paid off. With a second-place finish, he secured the title that had eluded him in previous years. McKinney expressed his disbelief and joy, stating, "This feels unbelievable. When I caught the 6-pounder later in the day, I knew that bass had won me $100,000 and Angler of the Year, something I have dreamed of all of my life."

Trey's journey to this achievement has not been without its challenges. Over the past two years in the elite series, he finished as a runner-up to Chris Johnston, Cory's younger brother. Heading into the final event with only two points separating him from Johnston, McKinney's focus and resolve were at an all-time high.

The 2026 season proved to be a rollercoaster ride for McKinney. After a less-than-stellar performance in South Carolina, where he finished 90th due to mechanical issues, he was faced with the daunting task of reclaiming his lead in the AOY race. However, he bounced back during subsequent events, strategically placing himself in competition for the title.

Onlookers noted that McKinney's ability to adapt was key. "Once I put myself back in it at Pasquotank, I knew I would be okay," he recalled. His decision to play it safe proved pivotal, as he navigated the challenging waters of multiple tournaments, ultimately leading to his historic win.

Despite having achieved such remarkable success at a young age, McKinney remains humble and focused. “I know one thing, I'm never going to stop working hard at it,” he said, emphasizing that his next bite is always a priority. With more than $900 thousand in career earnings, he is on a path to becoming one of the greatest tournament anglers of all time, but the thrill of the chase keeps him grounded.

As the fishing community celebrates McKinney's win, he becomes a beacon of inspiration for aspiring anglers. His story reflects that with hard work, perseverance, and a love for the sport, monumental achievements are possible. Trey McKinney has not only made history; he has set the stage for an exciting future within the angling world. As he continues his journey, fans and fellow competitors will undoubtedly be eager to see what else this young prodigy will accomplish in the seasons to come.

In conclusion, McKinney’s historic AOY title win is more than just a trophy; it's a testament to a youthful angler's dedication and talent that continues to inspire many in the fishing world. With his eyes set on the future, McKinney is ready to tackle whatever challenges come his way in the pursuit of his dreams.