Feb. 25, 2026
AFTCO and B.A.S.S. renew partnership with expanded conservation and program support
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. has announced the renewal and expansion of its partnership with AFTCO (American Fishing Tackle Company), reinforcing a multi-year commitment that includes broad support across youth, conservation and competitive programming. Under the renewed agreement, AFTCO will continue as a Supporting Sponsor of B.A.S.S., a B.A.S.S. Conservation Partner, Conservation Summit Sponsor and the supporter of the AFTCO Bass Bus Live Release Boat. The partnership also encompasses AFTCO’s participation in the AmBASSador Program, as well as continued support for official merchandise and staff apparel.
AFTCO’s expanded role reflects a deep shared commitment with B.A.S.S. to enhance fisheries, support youth engagement, and grow the sport responsibly. From elite competition to local conservation projects, AFTCO’s involvement is designed to create positive impacts both on and off the water.
“B.A.S.S. has been a key partner for us and we are glad to extend that successful partnership in 2026. We have some exciting new programs this year like Tuesday Night Live that will entertain and educate bass fishing fans in new ways. Most importantly we are proud to continue our conservation programs with them as that is a key pillar of AFTCO,” said Casey Shedd, President AFTCO.
A key element of this partnership is the ongoing AFTCO x B.A.S.S. Conservation Grant Program, which continues in 2026 to support grass-roots freshwater conservation initiatives proposed by B.A.S.S. Nation clubs. Since its creation in 2018, the program has provided financial backing for projects that improve habitat, support stocking efforts and promote best practices in fish care, with AFTCO’s total contributions to date exceeding $177,000.
The grant program fosters collaboration among local B.A.S.S. Nation chapters, fisheries management agencies, volunteers and youth organizations to address critical conservation needs in lakes and rivers across the country. Projects funded through the program help ensure that fisheries remain healthy and sustainable for future generations of anglers, aligning closely with both AFTCO’s and B.A.S.S.’s long-term conservation goals.
Other program elements supported by AFTCO include the AFTCO Bass Bus Live Release Boat, which has been integral in improving tournament fish care and survival, as well as the AmBASSador Program, which provides outreach and education to local communities. AFTCO also supplies official merchandise and staff apparel, reinforcing the partnership’s presence at events and across B.A.S.S. platforms.
“AFTCO’s continued support of B.A.S.S. and its conservation and youth programming strengthens our ability to serve anglers and protect the resources they cherish,” said Phillip Johnson, Chief Operating Officer at B.A.S.S. “From the Conservation Grant Program that funds meaningful, community-level work to the high visibility of the AFTCO Bass Bus and AmBASSador outreach, this partnership enhances experiences for competitors and conservationists alike. We’re grateful for AFTCO’s long-term commitment and look forward to what we can accomplish together in the future.”
The renewed partnership will be showcased across Bassmaster events, conservation summits, youth engagement programs and digital outreach throughout the 2026 season and beyond. For more information on the AFTCO x B.A.S.S. Conservation Grant Program and how to apply, visit Bassmaster.com.