AFTCO Named Official Apparel Partner of the Arkansas Legacy Lunker Program

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has named AFTCO (American Fishing Tackle Company) as the official apparel partner of the Arkansas Legacy Lunker Program, the AGFC’s flagship effort to increase trophy bass genetics in The Natural State.

Through the agreement, AFTCO will provide premium co‑branded apparel for anglers who participate in the program as well as specialized gear for participants in the dedicated angler recognition and youth divisions set to launch in 2027.

The Legacy Lunker Program, launched in 2026, is designed to strengthen the genetics of Arkansas’s largemouth bass populations by collecting wild-caught largemouth bass weighing 10 pounds or more from public waters throughout the state and spawning them with special Titan Maxx bass from Red Hill Fishery in Georgia at the Joe Hogan State Fish Hatchery in Lonoke. Anglers who donate qualifying fish play a direct role in shaping the future of trophy bass fishing in The Natural State.

AFTCO’s involvement enhances that experience by rewarding conservation‑minded anglers with high‑quality gear that reflects their contribution to the resource.

“AFTCO has long been a champion of conservation and the fishing community,” said Will Lancett, Legacy Lunker Coordinator for the AGFC. “Their partnership will enhance the success of the Legacy Lunker Program, enabling us to offer meaningful rewards to anglers who donate these world-class fish. We are thrilled to have AFTCO on board to help ensure that Arkansas becomes a premier destination for trophy bass for generations to come.”

AFTCO is widely recognized as a leader in performance fishing apparel, known for durable, purpose‑built gear trusted by anglers across the country. From technical sun protection to cold‑weather outerwear, AFTCO products are engineered for the demands of serious fishing.

The company’s reputation extends beyond gear. AFTCO is a national leader in conservation‑minded business practices, anchored by its 10-percent Pledge for Conservation, which dedicates a portion of its annual profits to fisheries protection, habitat restoration, and youth angler programs. Their long‑standing commitment to stewardship makes them a natural partner for AGFC’s mission to protect and enhance Arkansas’s fisheries.

“AFTCO is honored to partner with the Arkansas Legacy Lunker Program,” Casey Shedd, President of AFTCO, said. “A partnership with this program is the perfect fit for our brand, and we look forward to supporting the anglers who participate in this exciting program that highlights the big bass in Arkansas.”

AFTCO joins a strong and expanding group of Legacy Lunker corporate partners, including Xpress Boats, PRADCO Fishing, Bass Pro Shops and Harper’s Pure Country Taxidermy.

Visit www.agfc.com/legacylunker to learn more about the Arkansas Legacy Lunker program and news from its first year. Corporate partners wishing to support trophy‑bass conservation, youth angler engagement and statewide fisheries stewardship can contact Jibbie Tucker (jibbie@agff.org) to learn how to contribute and partner with the program.

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CUTLINE:
Little Rock Angler Lin Burnett with his 11-pound trophy bass that was used in the trial run of the Legacy Lunker program in 2025. AGFC photo.