The 1986 Bucknell Bison football team was an American football team that represented Bucknell University during the 1986 NCAA Division I-AA football season. In the first year of play for the Colonial League, Bucknell tied for last place. In their first year under head coach George Landis, the Bison compiled a 3–7 record. Earl Beecham and Doug Fastuca were the team captains. Bucknell's 1–3 conference record tied for fourth in the five-team Colonial League standings. Against all opponents, the Bison were outscored 223 to 171.