TOLEDO BEND, Texas–Louisiana Border — The search for 22-year-old Peyton Hughes, a Campbellsville University student and member of the school’s kayak fishing team, ended in heartbreak Friday when recovery teams located his body in Toledo Bend Reservoir. Hughes, a Kentucky native, had been missing since September 24, 2025, when he failed to reunite with a travel companion while fishing on the vast lake.
According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), searchers initially found Hughes’ kayak but no sign of the young angler. The discovery prompted a massive multi-agency operation, with boats, sonar, and specialized crews scouring the 185,000-acre reservoir that straddles the Texas–Louisiana state line. After two days of searching, his body was located Friday morning. His mother, Sara Ashley Hughes, confirmed the devastating news in a public post, writing, “Oh NOOO my baby is gone. They recovered his body this morning in the lake. Please pray for us. My sweet boy is gone to be with his Daddy who died fighting for this country.”
Hughes was a rising figure in competitive kayak fishing, preparing to represent Campbellsville University in the upcoming Bassmaster Kayak Series tournament scheduled for September 27–28 on Toledo Bend. He and his travel partner had been pre-practicing on the water when Hughes disappeared. When he did not arrive at their agreed meeting spot, his companion immediately alerted authorities.
The search drew intense attention from the fishing community, with friends, family, and fellow anglers anxiously awaiting updates. During the early stages, Hughes’ mother pleaded for prayers and support, saying, “My Mama heart is very heavy right now. I am asking for prayers, positive thoughts, and any support as the search continues.” Those hopes turned to grief on Friday as news spread that Hughes had been found.
In a statement, B.A.S.S. (Bass Anglers Sportsman Society) confirmed Hughes was registered to compete at Toledo Bend and had been in direct contact with TPWD during the search. “We are deeply saddened by this tragedy and extend our thoughts and prayers to Peyton’s family, friends, and the Campbellsville University community,” the organization said.
Loved ones remember Hughes as a passionate angler, a devoted son, and a young man whose future was filled with promise. His mother noted that he is now reunited with his late father, Adam Hughes, who died while serving his country. The tragedy has left both the Campbellsville and fishing communities mourning a life cut short on the water he loved most.