Our Newest National Champion High School Angler: Carson Halbert’s Remarkable Journey

When passion, perseverance, and purpose collide, incredible things happen. Just ask Carson Halbert — one of NSR’s standout high school pro staffers — who, alongside his fishing partner Cooper Moon, just captured the high school national championship title in competitive bass fishing.

Outfishing more than 390 teams, Carson and Cooper brought home the championship with a jaw-dropping three-day total of 45 pounds from just nine fish, averaging an impressive five pounds per catch. Their success came from hard-earned experience, a well-executed strategy, and unwavering teamwork.

Fishing with Heart and Strategy

Instead of joining the crowd flipping bushes in flooded areas, Carson and Cooper found a less-traveled pattern — targeting mid-lake hard spots and gravel points with crankbaits, swing heads, big worms, and jigs. The result? A consistent string of big bass that sealed their victory.

"We weren’t getting a ton of bites,” Carson said. “But when we did, they were four to six pounds — true quality over quantity."

Their clean execution and ability to land nearly every fish they hooked proved crucial in such a competitive field.

A Journey Fueled by Faith and Family

Carson’s win was more than a tournament victory — it was the culmination of a 7-year journey, shaped by adversity, faith, and relentless dedication. His parents recalled the early days, when he went an entire season without catching a single fish, only to bounce back stronger through hours of research, late-night knot-tying, and even lure-testing in the bathtub.

His story is a powerful example of how setbacks can become stepping stones.

Throughout the tournament, the Halbert family leaned on faith. “We stopped multiple times during the event to pray and give thanks,” Carson’s father said. “Even the camera boat operator joined us. It was special.”

More Than a Fisherman — A Leader and Scholar

Carson’s path reflects the NSR mission: helping athletes build a complete profile for college coaches — on and off the field (or in this case, the water). His 4.0 GPA, weekly community service, and recent honor as Tennessee Conservationist of the Year showcase his well-rounded commitment.

NSR’s recruiting tools gave Carson the visibility he needed beyond Tennessee, eventually connecting him with Coach Crawford at the University of Montevallo, where he’ll fish on a nationally ranked team and study business management.

Eyes on the Future

With new challenges on the horizon — including a shot at the Toyota Series Championship and possibly becoming the youngest qualifier for the Bassmaster Kayak Classic — Carson’s journey is far from over.

He’ll also join Montevallo’s Outdoor Scholars Program, where he’ll grow his brand, develop as an angler, and even sharpen some cooking skills along the way.

A Final Word from Carson

“I’m so thankful for my family, my mentors, NSR, and God. None of this would be possible without them,” Carson shared.

This national championship may mark the end of Carson’s high school career — but it’s clear he’s just getting started.