HEMPHILL, Texas — B.A.S.S. confirmed today that Campbellsville University angler Peyton Hughes has died following a search on Toledo Bend Reservoir in Texas. Hughes had been reported missing Sept. 24 after failing to arrive at a designated meeting place while pre-practicing for the Bassmaster Kayak Series event scheduled for Sept. 27–28.

Authorities were notified by Hughes’ travel partner when he did not return as planned. Officers with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department began a search and subsequently located his kayak. Search teams representing multiple agencies from both Texas and Louisiana recovered Hughes from the water this morning, shortly after resuming their efforts. The investigation by TPWD is ongoing.

“Our entire B.A.S.S. family is heartbroken by the loss of Peyton Hughes,” said Chase Anderson, CEO of B.A.S.S. “Peyton was a passionate and talented young angler with a bright future ahead of him. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, teammates and the Campbellsville University community. Peyton's family will be in our thoughts and prayers during this devastating time.”

About B.A.S.S.

B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.

The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens Series presented by SEVIIN, Nitro Boats Elite Qualifiers Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Bassmaster Junior Series, TNT Fireworks Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Bassmaster College Kayak Series, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.