Bill Shedd serves as the Chairman and CEO of the American Fishing Tackle Co. (AFTCO), a revered recreational fishing brand that spans three generations as a family business. Together with three of his children, he oversees both AFTCO’s fishing tackle and clothing divisions.

Shedd’s dedication to marine conservation is unparalleled, with over 15,000 volunteer hours dedicated to various conservation projects. For more than 35 years, he has spent four to five hundred hours annually addressing marine conservation and recreational fishing industry concerns. Currently, Shedd holds positions as Chairman of the Board of Directors for organizations such as the Coastal Conservation Association of California (CCA Cal) and the Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute (HSWRI). Additionally, he serves on the Board of Directors for the Center for Sportfish Policy (CSP), International Game Fish Association (IGFA), and the California Artificial Reef Enhancement (CARE) program, among others.

Shedd co-founded the United Anglers of Southern California (UASC), where he led initiatives to establish white seabass grow-out facilities and played a pivotal role in eliminating set gill nets in California. He testified before the United States Senate in 2019 advocating for the final gillnet phaseout. In 1989, Shedd initiated the AFTCO Tag Flag program in the Atlantic and Pacific, significantly raising awareness of tag and release practices over 18 years. He firmly believes that recreational anglers are integral stewards of marine resources in the conservation era.

Recognition of Shedd’s conservation efforts includes prestigious awards such as the IGFA Hall of Fame (2023), ASA Lifetime Achievement Award (2017), and the CSP Eddie Smith Manufacturer of the Year Award (2015), among others. He is known for his leadership in marine conservation and the sportfishing industry, guiding AFTCO’s second-generation leadership, innovating AFTCO fishing tackle products, and spearheading AFTCO’s clothing business. Above all, Shedd is proud of his family and their contributions to AFTCO’s mission of giving back to the sportfishing community and ensuring future healthy fish populations.

Bill Shedd, alongside his wife Jill, resides in Southern California, where they enjoy spending time with their children and grandchildren. A graduate of the University of Oregon, Shedd continues to pursue his passions for surfing and fishing.