LINCOLN, AL — On Friday, community leaders, conservationists, and fishing enthusiasts gathered at Lincoln’s Landing on Logan Martin Lake for the inaugural Restock Alabama event, a statewide initiative aimed at enhancing Alabama’s fisheries. The event marked the release of 20,000 largemouth bass fingerlings into the Coosa River system.
Organized through a multi-year collaborative effort, the program brought together local municipalities, state agencies, and corporate partners. Notable attendees included municipal officials, Alabama state representatives, professional anglers Jordan Lee and Will Davis Jr., and members of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR).
Lee Holmes, a driving force behind the project and representative of Sylacauga Marine & ATV, called the event a major milestone after two years of planning. “This is close to my heart, and this is just the beginning,” Holmes said. He expressed gratitude to sponsors and supporters including AmFirst Bank, Humminbird, Minn Kota, Davis Bait Co., Burton Advertising, American Sport Fish, and the City of Lincoln.
Deputy Commissioner Ed Poolos of the ADCNR emphasized the significance of collaboration in conservation efforts. “When local partners come together for the outdoors and fishing, it’s a win for generations to come,” he stated.
Professional anglers Jordan Lee and Will Davis Jr. both participated in the fish release alongside volunteers, including local students and community anglers. “The bass fishing in Alabama has given me so much,” said Lee. “This is just the start.” Davis added, “It feels good to give back to a lake that means so much to you.”
While unable to attend due to a scheduling conflict, State Senator Keith Kelley shared a written statement of strong support. “Alabama’s natural resources are among the most treasured in the country,” Kelley wrote. “Restock Alabama represents a bold step toward protecting those resources while also strengthening a key pillar of our state’s economy: tourism.”
Senator Kelley praised the collaborative efforts behind the initiative and highlighted its broader impact beyond conservation. “This program isn’t just about fish; it’s about future opportunities for families, students, anglers, and entrepreneurs across the state,” he stated. “Though I cannot be there with you today, I remain committed to supporting this initiative every step of the way.”
The fish were released into carefully selected sites to promote healthy growth and sustainability. Organizers hope this initial release will be the beginning of an expanding effort, with long-term goals of stocking over 50,000 fish annually and extending the program to other Alabama lakes.
