Carson Fitzgerald, a senior at Trinity High School, has officially signed to join the bass fishing team at Campbellsville University. This marks the next exciting chapter in his impressive fishing journey.
Throughout his high school years, Fitzgerald has proven to be a top-notch angler. He qualified for the KHSAA State Championship every year, finishing third in 2024. In 2022 and 2023, he was the Region 1 runner-up, also snagging the Big Bass award in both seasons.
From 2020 to 2025, he achieved 13 individual tournament victories across four different bodies of water. Notably, Fitzgerald qualified for the SAF National Championship four years in a row and clinched the USA Bassin Next Generation National Championship in 2024. He also triumphed in a Major League Fishing BFL tournament that same year.
During his signing ceremony, Fitzgerald expressed gratitude to those who supported him. “I want to thank Coach Miracle for this amazing opportunity, and my family, friends, and teachers for always pushing me in fishing and my education,” he said. He added, “Most importantly, I want to thank my Lord and Savior for being by my side during these challenging years of high school. I’m thrilled to continue my athletics and education at Campbellsville University.”
Fitzgerald’s commitment to fishing runs deep. His father, BJ Fitzgerald, was instrumental in launching the bass fishing program at Trinity and has been the head coach throughout Carson’s high school journey. This family connection highlights the importance of mentorship and support in young athletes’ lives.
The growth of bass fishing programs in schools reflects a broader trend in youth sports, where extracurricular activities can significantly influence a student’s future. According to recent data from the National Federation of State High School Associations, participation in high school fishing programs has been steadily increasing, fostering skills that go beyond the water—like teamwork, discipline, and goal-setting.
As Fitzgerald heads to Campbellsville University, he’s not just pursuing a sport; he’s taking with him invaluable lessons and experiences that will shape his future both in fishing and academics.
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