Western Lake Superior Trollers Association
Dedicated to Fishing, Veterans and Community.
The Western Lake Superior Trollers Association is dedicated to honoring veterans, advocating for healthy fisheries, and giving back to our community through education, events, and partnerships.
120+ Veterans Honored Each Year
Be part of a community that gives back to those who served.
1,000+ Children Supported Through Just Kids Dental
Protecting Lake Superior’s Fisheries for Future Generations
100%
of Proceeds Stay Local
Our Mission
To promote fishing in western Lake Superior while enriching lives through youth scholarships, veteran support, and hands-on experiences that connect kids, families, and veterans to the water.”
- Honoring and supporting veterans with programs and events that give back.
- Empowering youth and families through scholarships, fishing opportunities, and outdoor education.
- Advocating for thriving fisheries to ensure a healthy and sustainable Lake Superior for generations.
Our Vision
June 5th–7th
2026
42nd Annual JAWS Fishing Derby
Get ready for the 42nd Annual JAWS Derby—Lake Superior’s biggest fishing event of the year! Join anglers from across the region for three days of competition, community, and celebration on the water.
- Dates: June 5th–7th, 2026
- Location: Barker’s Island – Superior, WI
- Prizes: Over $10,000 in cash and awards
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I fish during the Derby?
What are the fishing and weigh-in times?
- Friday, June 5th & Saturday, June 6th: Fishing begins one hour before sunrise and ends at 4:00 PM.
- Sunday, June 7th: Fishing begins one hour before sunrise and ends at 2:00 PM.
- Weigh-in Times: Friday & Saturday 4:00–5:00 PM | Sunday 2:00–3:00 PM.
Do I need a Derby ticket?
Yes. Adults: $40 | Kids (under 16): $15. Every person on the boat must have a valid Derby ticket before fishing. Tickets are available at local stores until Thursday, June 4th, and at Barker’s Island headquarters starting Thursday at 10 AM.
What is the Warren Soule Captains Classic?
What prizes can I win?
Cash prizes are awarded for each fish category:
1st Place – $1,000 | 2nd – $800 | 3rd – $700 | 4th – $600 | 5th – $500
Plus, nightly drawings, door prizes, and Captains Classic awards!
When is the awards ceremony?
The Awards Ceremony will take place Sunday, June 7th, shortly after the 2 PM–3 PM weigh-in at Barker’s Island.
Vets on the Lake
July 25
2026
- Date: Saturday, July 25, 2026
- Morning: Light breakfast and a great day of fishing with local boat captains
- Afternoon: Lunch served on the boat
- Evening: Community fish fry & dinner together
Relive the excitement of past Vets on the Lake events and see how we honor our veterans on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fishing license?
How do I register?
What’s included in the day?
Do I need to bring my own fishing gear?
Who can participate?
Do veterans need a fishing license?
No, veterans can fish for free on this day — no license required.
What We Do
Support Local Veterans
Each year, we host Vets on the Lake, bringing together veterans and volunteers for a day of fishing, food, and camaraderie on Lake Superior. Proceeds raised help provide food, shelter, and scholarships for area veterans.
Advocate for Better Fishing
WLSTA works to protect and stabilize populations of Lake Trout, Walleye, Salmon, and other freshwater species, ensuring healthy fisheries for future anglers.
Give Back to the Community
Through the Warren Soule Captains Classic, sponsored by Gondik Law Office, we proudly donate all proceeds to Just Kids Dental, which provides essential preventative dental care and education to over 12,000 children in Lake, St. Louis, and Douglas counties.
Our Events
JAWS Derby
Our flagship fishing tournament, bringing together anglers from across the region. Every cast makes a difference, with all proceeds benefiting...
Vets on the Lake 2026
On Saturday, July 25, 2026, the Western Lake Superior Trollers Association is proud to host Vets on the Lake—a day...
Community Fisheries Forum
Our advocacy doesn’t stop at the shoreline. WLSTA hosts educational forums and community discussions focused on sustaining and improving Lake...
JAWS Derby
Our flagship fishing tournament, bringing together anglers from across the region. Every cast makes a difference, with all proceeds benefiting...
Vets on the Lake 2026
On Saturday, July 25, 2026, the Western Lake Superior Trollers Association is proud to host Vets on the Lake—a day...
Sponsorship & Opportunities
- Event sponsorships
- Donations for veterans’ needs (food, shelter, scholarships)
- Volunteer opportunities for our fishing events
- Community partnerships
Community Sponsors & Supporters
Platinum Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Supporting the Next Generation
Congratulations to our 2025 scholarship recipients—we can’t wait to see all that you accomplish!