AFTCO proudly congratulates pro team angler Jason Christie on his historic victory at the 2026 MAXAM Bassmaster Elite Series event at the Pasquotank River and Albemarle Sound, earning his second Bassmaster Elite Series win of the season and the 10th Bassmaster victory of his remarkable career.
The road to victory was anything but easy. Throughout the four-day event, Christie made lengthy runs across the often-treacherous waters of the Albemarle Sound to reach productive areas in the Chowan River. Known for its expansive open water and rapidly changing conditions, the Sound tested both equipment and endurance as anglers battled rough seas, heavy wind, and punishing boat rides day after day.
Despite the challenging conditions, Christie remained focused on the task at hand. With bass relating to scattered cover including cypress trees, laydowns, stumps, and docks, he spent the week adapting to an inconsistent bite and making the most of every opportunity. His persistence paid off with a four-day total of 92 pounds, 7 ounces, securing one of the most significant victories of his career.
While Christie’s fishing decisions ultimately earned the trophy, AFTCO performance apparel helped him withstand the demanding conditions he faced throughout the event. Long runs across rough water exposed anglers to wind, spray, and rapidly changing weather, making reliable technical apparel a necessity rather than a luxury. To stay comfortable during long days on the water, Christie relied on AFTCO Pinnacle Fishing Shorts and Solago Sun Gloves. When conditions turned rough and the Albemarle Sound delivered heavy spray and pounding waves during the long runs to and from his fishing areas, he counted on his AFTCO Barricade Rain Jacket and Barricade Bib to keep him dry, protected, and focused on the task at hand.
Whether making an early morning run across open water, navigating challenging conditions, or fishing through changing weather patterns, Christie’s AFTCO apparel provided the comfort and protection needed to compete at the highest level. With every mile traveled across the Sound, his gear worked as hard as he did.
“Jason’s ability to overcome adversity and perform under some of the toughest conditions in professional fishing is what separates him from the rest of the field,” said AFTCO President Casey Shedd. “The Albemarle Sound presented a true challenge this week, and we’re proud that Jason trusted AFTCO apparel to keep him protected and comfortable while pursuing another incredible victory.”
Christie’s latest triumph serves as a reminder that success in professional fishing requires more than finding fish. It demands preparation, toughness, and gear that performs when conditions are at their worst. From punishing boat rides to long tournament days on the water, AFTCO remains committed to designing purpose-built apparel that helps anglers stay focused on what matters most, catching fish.
For Christie, that combination of preparation, perseverance, and trusted equipment resulted in yet another Bassmaster trophy and a place among the sport’s most accomplished anglers.
About AFTCO
Family owned and operated, the American Fishing Tackle Company (AFTCO) represents unparalleled quality, performance, and reliability when it counts most. Worn across the globe, AFTCO’s fishing clothing and fishing rain gear is designed to handle the harshest elements. Whether you are a tournament bass angler looking to stay dry in a late fall downpour or an offshore weekend warrior seeking protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays, AFTCO keeps you fishing comfortably. AFTCO reflects a legacy of firsts. From former company Chairman Milt Shedd’s pioneering conservation achievements, to the invention of the roller guide and the introduction of the world’s first pair of true fishing shorts, AFTCO provides conservation leadership and innovative products proven to deliver performance on the water. Our passion for the outdoors goes beyond our product
