AFTCO Announces 2026 B.A.S.S. Conservation Grant Recipients
Conservation has always been at the core of AFTCO's mission. In 2026, AFTCO continues that commitment by awarding $25,000 in Conservation Grants to seven B.A.S.S. Nation clubs. Since the program launched in 2018, AFTCO has contributed more than $202,000 to conservation projects that improve fisheries and restore habitat across the country.
The 2026 grant recipients are leading projects focused on habitat restoration, fish stocking, tournament fish care, and water quality improvements that will benefit fisheries in their local communities.
2026 Conservation Grant Recipients
1. Tennessee B.A.S.S. Nation
Funding will support upgrades to a multi-purpose barge that serves as both a tournament live release boat and a habitat installation platform for conservation projects across the state.
2. Kansas B.A.S.S. Nation
Grant funding will support habitat improvements on Lake Perry through the addition of native aquatic vegetation and artificial fish habitat.
3. Illinois B.A.S.S. Nation
Funding will enhance habitat at Wolf Lake, a popular destination for youth fishing clinics and high school bass tournaments.
4. Georgia B.A.S.S. Nation
The grant will fund the purchase of a PiranhO₂ oxygen concentrator to improve tournament fish care and increase post-release survival.
5. Lake Oconee Bassmaster
Funding will support the purchase and installation of MossBack Fish Habitat structures to enhance fish habitat and angling opportunities on Lake Oconee.
6. New Mexico B.A.S.S. Nation
Grant funding will help purchase largemouth bass fingerlings to support stocking efforts led by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish.
7. Florida B.A.S.S. Nation
Funding will support Mighty River Recovery, a nonprofit organization working to improve water quality, restore native vegetation, and strengthen the St. Johns River fishery.
Each project is coordinated through local B.A.S.S. Nation clubs and state chapters in partnership with fisheries agencies, local businesses, volunteers, and youth organizations that contribute their time and resources to improve fisheries in their communities.
"We are impressed by the projects that this year's grant recipients have taken on to improve fishing in their respective states. The projects are focused on habitat improvements and fish care, which have been two important parts of our conservation efforts in freshwater. We are proud and excited to support these great projects in 2026," said Casey Shedd, AFTCO President.
Gene Gilliland, B.A.S.S. Conservation Director, added:
"Nine years and counting that AFTCO has supported the great conservation work that our B.A.S.S. Nation chapters and clubs are doing. The Shedd family and AFTCO's commitment to supporting these grassroots projects is a testament to their belief in giving back to the resource that our sport is so dependent on, and those of us at B.A.S.S. sincerely appreciate the continued support."
AFTCO congratulates the 2026 Conservation Grant recipients and looks forward to seeing the impact these projects have on fisheries and local angling communities.
