Dion Hibdon, the renowned professional bass fisherman from Versailles, Missouri, passed away at the age of 58 on early Monday morning, January 12, 2026.
A true legend in the sport, he was the 1997 Bassmaster Classic champion and also claimed victory in the 2000 FLW Cup, achievements that cemented his place among bass fishing’s elite.
His death leaves behind a grieving family, including his beloved wife, children, and grandchildren, as well as a worldwide community of anglers who admired his skill, humility, and deep family ties.
Born into a fishing dynasty, Dion was the son of Guido Hibdon, a Bassmaster Classic winner in 1988, two-time Angler of the Year (1990 and 1991), and 1998 Bass Fishing Hall of Fame inductee, and Stella Hibdon.
Raised alongside siblings Chuck and Dotty in the heart of Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks region, Dion grew up immersed in the world of bass fishing.
From a young age, his parents nurtured his passion, watching as he developed into a prodigy who would one day step out from his father’s shadow to claim his own spotlight.
Dion’s first marriage was to Jill Linette Marriot, whom he wed on June 30, 1990.
Jill, a 1988 graduate of Morgan County R-I High School in Stover, Missouri, was deeply involved in their shared life on the road.
She traveled full-time with Dion and their three sons, homeschooling their eldest, Payden (born shortly after their marriage), while supporting the family during tournaments.
The couple welcomed twin sons, Conner and Lawson, in 1995.
Jill was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Stover and later pursued online courses in interior design while working at Casa Bonita Home Furnishings in Stover.
Tragically, Dion and Jill divorced in 2011, and just months later, on December 7, 2011, Jill lost her life in a devastating automobile accident.
Dion was preceded in death by both his first wife and his parents, Guido and Stella.
In 2012, Dion found love again when he married Amy Donran of Versailles, Missouri, on January 30
Amy became the strong backbone of the Hibdon family during the later years of Dion’s life and career.
A dedicated special education teacher at Morgan County R-II School District (an elementary school in Versailles), Amy brought her own warmth and strength to the blended family.
She had four sons of her own, one of whom serves in the U.S. Marine Corps, and three of her sons lived with Dion and Amy in Versailles alongside Dion’s three boys, creating a lively, supportive household.
Amy’s education at Missouri State University equipped her well for her rewarding career in education, where she made a meaningful impact on students’ lives.
Those close to the family describe her as a pillar of support, helping Dion guide the demands of professional fishing while keeping the home grounded in love and stability.
Through the highs of tournament victories and the challenges of life, including the loss of loved ones, Amy stood by Dion, showing the family-first values that defined the Hibdons for generations.
Fishing was always a family affair for Dion.
He began guiding on Lake of the Ozarks as a high schooler after acquiring his own boat, then joined the pro circuit full-time following high school, competing in his first B.A.S.S. event in 1985 and ultimately qualifying for eight Bassmaster Classics.
His success followed in his father’s footsteps, and he passed that same love for fishing on to his sons, Payden, Lawson, and Conner, who have all gone on to fish at high levels.
Dion Hibdon’s life was defined by great talent, strong family ties, and the love he shared in two marriages that each shaped his journey.
From Jill’s early companionship on the road and dedication to their young sons, to Amy’s continuous support in his later years, the women in his life helped shape the man behind the champion.
As the bass fishing world mourns his loss, his legacy lives on through his children, grandchildren, and the countless anglers he inspired.
Rest in peace, Dion. Your casts were legendary, but your heart for family was even greater.
