Top 10 AOY Profile: Dalton Williams
Rank: #1
Hometown: Valier, Illinois
Favorite Lake: Banner Marsh
Kayak / Setup: Vibe Shearwater 125 with Fin Drive and Garmin Striker Plus 7sv
Sponsors: AJC Bait and Tackle, Hoods Guns and More, Hawg Caller and LUNKER Lure, Big Sacks Baits, Boneyard Outfitters Fishing and Lodging
Season Highlights
Dominant and disciplined — that’s the best way to describe Dalton Williams’ 2025 season. The Valier native pulled off an incredible AOY hat trick, securing multiple wins across the SIKC trail and establishing himself as the top angler in Southern Illinois kayak fishing. His combination of consistency, confidence, and adaptability made him the benchmark for competition all year long.
On the Water
Dalton’s approach to tournament fishing centers on confidence and adjustment. He sticks with baits he knows will produce, but he’s never afraid to pivot when conditions demand it. His simple but effective philosophy—“stick to the baits you are confident in and switch throughout the day until you find the one that works”—keeps him dialed in even when the bite gets tough.
Favorite Techniques
Dalton’s arsenal is built around proven confidence baits: a KVD squarebill in Sexy Shad and a Googan Mini Frog. Those selections fit his power-fishing style and his ability to cover water efficiently, whether working structure, banks, or grass edges.
Memorable Moment
One of Dalton’s favorite memories from the 2025 season came at the Cedar Lake tournament, when he and fellow angler Kendall both landed giants—a 21.75” and a 20” fish—creating one of the most memorable moments of the entire SIKC trail.
Goals for 2026
After a historic run, Dalton isn’t slowing down. His focus for next season: defend his AOY crown and continue growing his personal and professional presence within the sport. When he’s not chasing trophies, you’ll likely find him pond hopping and refining the same instincts that made him the top angler in 2025.
About the Series
This article is part of the SIKC Top 10 Angler of the Year Spotlight, a winter feature celebrating our 2025 Top 10 finishers and their stories on and off the water.
Follow the full series at sikcfishing.org/.
