Kettle Moraine Student Wins WIFA Angler of the Year

Jayden Hitchcock, a high school prodigy, dominates competitive fishing challenge

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:09am

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A cubist-style painting featuring fragmented geometric shapes in shades of blue, green, and orange, capturing the dynamic movements and energy of competitive angling.A young angling prodigy's rise to the top showcases the intellectual and environmental aspects of competitive fishing.Dousman Today

Jayden Hitchcock, a student at Kettle Moraine High School in Dousman, Wisconsin, has won the prestigious Wisconsin Interscholastic Fishing Association (WIFA) Angler of the Year award. Inspired by his family's fishing tradition, Hitchcock has displayed remarkable skill and dedication, catching 31 eligible species across various water bodies to become the first Kettle Moraine student to achieve this feat.

Why it matters

Hitchcock's victory highlights the growing popularity and competitiveness of high school fishing programs, which not only teach valuable skills but also promote conservation and environmental awareness. His success story inspires young anglers and showcases the intellectual and strategic aspects of competitive fishing.

The details

Joining the Kettle Moraine High School Finnatics fishing team at a young age, Hitchcock immersed himself in the competitive angling scene. The WIFA Angler of the Year competition requires catching a minimum of 35 eligible species, a daunting task that demands both skill and versatility. Hitchcock initially caught a handful of qualifying species, but this experience taught him the importance of dedication. In February 2025, he set a goal of catching 14 species, the threshold for the WIFA Hall of Fame, and embarked on a fishing adventure across various water bodies, showcasing his adaptability by fishing from shore, boats, and even traveling to different states. Hitchcock's research and understanding of fish behavior, such as the burbot's spawning migrations, demonstrate a strategic and scientific approach to the sport.

  • In February 2025, Hitchcock set a goal of catching 14 species, the threshold for the WIFA Hall of Fame.
  • By May 2025, Hitchcock had caught 14 species, surpassing his initial goal.
  • Hitchcock continued his quest, seeking out rare species like the burbot and hybrid panfish, and ultimately caught 31 fish, with 20 from shore, to win the 2025 WIFA Angler of the Year competition.

The players

Jayden Hitchcock

A high school student from Dousman, Wisconsin, who has emerged as a prodigy in the world of competitive angling, winning the prestigious WIFA Angler of the Year award.

Kettle Moraine High School Finnatics

The fishing team that Hitchcock joined at a young age, providing him with early exposure to organized angling competitions.

Wisconsin Interscholastic Fishing Association (WIFA)

The organization that hosts the Angler of the Year competition, which requires catching a minimum of 35 eligible species and emphasizes conservation and environmental education.

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What they’re saying

“Jayden's victory is a testament to his hard work, passion, and deep connection to the natural world. He's an inspiration to young anglers and a true ambassador for the sport.”

— Jayden's Coach

What’s next

Hitchcock plans to study fisheries or aquatic sciences at UW-Stevens Point, with the goal of potentially becoming a conservation warden in the future.

The takeaway

Hitchcock's story is not just about winning a competition; it's about the power of passion, hard work, and a deep respect for the environment. His journey inspires us to explore the wonders of the aquatic world and reminds us that age is no barrier to achieving greatness in the sport of competitive fishing.