The FLW Costa Series event was canceled and a search began for the pair of anglers. Kisiah was found safe after about 15 hours, but a six-day search ensued for Kayler.
Kayler and fellow angler Bill Kisiah were competing Jan. 4 in the first day of a bass fishing tournament on the lake when a wave overtook the boat and knocked Kayler out, according to reports from the commission.
“Our prayers are with Nik’s family during this time of unimaginable tragedy,” said Kathy Fennel, Fishing League Worldwide president of operations, in a statement. “The loss of his life touches the entire fishing community.”