On this episode of the Mastering Rod Building Podcast, we sit down with AFTCO's Robby Gant to explore the deep history of one of fishing's most iconic brands.

We trace AFTCO’s journey from its groundbreaking origins in rod components, discussing what made their roller guides revolutionary, to its evolution into a full-fledged fishing lifestyle brand.

Robby shares the story behind their iconic fishing shorts and how the company balanced hardware innovation with technical apparel. This conversation also takes a deep dive into AFTCO's core identity of advocacy, detailing their 10% Pledge to Protect & Conserve, their fight for legislative change like gillnet bans, and their support for grassroots efforts through B.A.S.S. Nation grants.

Mastering Rod Building is brought to you by Anglers Resource — your source for genuine Fuji Tackle components.

Where to buy genuine FUJI®️ rod components (Area Distributors)

• Japan: FIRST Corporation — https://first-fuji.co.jp/ • [email protected]
• American Continent (North & South America): Anglers Resource — https://anglersresource.net/ • [email protected]
• Oceania: Frogleys Offshore — https://fujitackle.com.au • [email protected]
• Spain/Czech/Finland/Sweden/Estonia/Latvia/Poland/Denmark/Belgium/Germany/Netherlands/Ireland/Luxembourg/France/Portugal/UK/Norway/Belarus/Ukraine/Russia:: CALICO S.A. (Kalikunnan) — https://kalikunnan.com/ • [email protected]
• Europe: MAJORA Intelligent Fishing (FUJI Tackle Italy) — https://www.fujitackle.it • [email protected]
• Asia: KOWA Company, Ltd. — [email protected]