Hook, line and sinker: Carson-Newman’s Helton and Wheat take Bassmaster College Series team honors

Carson-Newman Eagle Anglers Blake Wheat (left) of Dayton, Tennessee, and Zach Helton (right) of Halls, Tennessee, won the Bassmaster College Series Lunker Division Team of the Year. The teammates will go on to compete in the Bassmaster College Classic Bracket later this year.

Carson-Newman University’s Zach Helton and Blake Wheat won the Bassmaster College Series Lunker Trail Division Team of the Year. The duo landed the top spot by earning the most points throughout the three regular-season events.

“This accomplishment is very impressive because it recognizes the most consistent team throughout the season,” said Hunter Sales, Carson-Newman’s Eagle Anglers head coach. “Bass fishing is all about consistency, and these two demonstrated a wide skill set as they racked up top finishes from Florida to North Carolina and back to Tennessee.”

Earning the title opens the door for sophomores Helton and Wheat to represent Carson-Newman as two of eight anglers fishing in the Bassmaster College Classic Bracket this fall. The individual winner of this bracket qualifies for the 2026 Bassmaster Classic on Fort Loudoun Lake and will receive usage of a school-branded truck, boat, and entry fees paid into the 2026 Bassmaster Opens.