Bass Fishing Starts 2026 Top 10 Nationally

Grayson, Ky. — Kentucky Christian University's Bass Fishing Team is currently ranked 10th nationally in the School of the Year Standings released on February 3 by the Association of Collegiate Anglers (ACA).

The Knights' Top 10 placement puts Kentucky Christian University ahead of several prominent Division I programs, including Louisiana State University, the University of Tennessee, and Purdue University, while sitting just four spots behind Auburn University, which is ranked 6th in the national standings.

The ACA School of the Year rankings are determined by cumulative performance across multiple ACA-sanctioned events throughout the season, emphasizing consistency, depth, and competitive success on a national scale. KCU's current standing reflects strong tournament performances and the continued rise of the bass fishing program.

The 2026 Strike King Bassmaster College Series at Lake Okeechobee started them off this year with being 10th in the nation. 

Cameron Dials and Ethan Burnette wrapped up placing 6th with a total weight of 24lbs and 15oz.

Eli Kelley and Kyle Smith finished 16th with a total of 20lbs. 

Reece keeney and Brantley Anders totaled out at 23rd with a total of 18lbs and 8oz. 

"This is an outstanding achievement for Kentucky Christian University and our bass fishing program," said David Manning, Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics and Athletic Director. "To be ranked 10th in the nation and competing head-to-head with some of the largest Division I institutions in the country speaks volumes about the commitment, preparation, and competitive mindset of our student-athletes and coaches."

Manning also emphasized the broader significance of the ranking for the university.

"As a small private Christian university, this ranking reinforces that excellence is not determined by size, but by culture," Manning said. "Our anglers represent KCU with integrity, discipline, and faith, and they continue to show that we can compete at the highest levels while staying true to our mission."

Head Coach Scott Burnett credited the team's success to preparation, unity, and purpose.

"Our anglers have bought into the process and the standard we set from day one," Burnett said. "This Top 10 ranking is the result of consistent preparation, attention to detail, and a team-first mindset. They've earned this through hard work on and off the water."

Burnett also highlighted what the ranking means for the future of the program.

"Being ranked ahead of programs like LSU, Tennessee, and Purdue shows what's possible here at Kentucky Christian," Burnett added. "We're proud of where we are, but we're not satisfied. Our goal is to keep pushing, keep improving, and finish the season the right way."

The Knights' position in the national standings places them just behind perennial powerhouse Auburn University, further underscoring the program's rapid growth and national relevance.

With additional ACA-sanctioned events remaining, Kentucky Christian University is well-positioned to continue its push toward a championship-level finish.