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.

120+
Together, we can make every cast count.

1,000+ Children Supported Through Just Kids Dental

Your support helps us make an even bigger difference.

Protecting Lake Superior’s Fisheries for Future Generations

Join us in preserving healthy waters and thriving fish populations.

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.”

Our Vision

We strive to build a stronger community by connecting youth, veterans, and families to the joy of fishing, the beauty of Lake Superior, and the power of giving back.

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.

Cast your line for a chance to win cash prizes, enjoy nightly drawings, and take part in the Warren Soule Captains Classic, where all proceeds support Just Kids Dental.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I fish during the Derby?
The fishing area is west of a line running from the Port Wing Wisconsin entry to the Two Harbors Minnesota entry. This includes the Duluth/Superior harbor and the St. Louis River and bays. You may only use public access or marina facilities that are located within the Jaws Derby boundaries.
  • 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.

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.

Sponsored by Gondik Law, this special division supports Just Kids Dental. Entry is $20 per boat (in addition to the Derby ticket). Winners are determined by the combined weight of your largest Lake Trout, Salmon, Walleye, and Brown Trout.

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!

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

We’re honored to host Vets on Lake Superior—a special day dedicated to celebrating and giving back to our veterans.

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?
No. Veterans can fish for free on this day without needing a license.
Registration details will be announced closer to the event date. Stay tuned for updates.
A light breakfast, a morning of fishing, lunch on the boat, and an evening fish fry/dinner.
Nope—boats, captains, and gear will be provided. Just bring yourself and enjoy the day!
This event is open to all MN and WI veterans

No, veterans can fish for free on this day — no license required.

What We Do

Building Stronger Communities Through Veterans, Fisheries, and Giving Back.

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

Experience the tournaments, veteran programs, and community events that power our mission.

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

Your support makes our mission possible. Whether you’re an individual, a business, or an organization, there are many ways to get involved:
Together, we can make a meaningful impact for veterans, children, and the future of fishing in western Lake Superior.

Community Sponsors & Supporters

Platinum Sponsors
Our most valued partners—leading the way in support and making a major impact on our veterans, children, and fisheries.
Gold Sponsors
Key contributors who play an essential role in driving our mission forward and supporting community events.
Silver Sponsors
Generous supporters whose contributions help sustain our programs and create meaningful change in the Twin Ports.

Supporting the Next Generation

We’re proud to announce that this year, the Western Lake Superior Trollers Association, on behalf of the Warren Soule Scholarship Fund, awarded scholarships to two outstanding local students!
These scholarships reflect our commitment not only to honoring veterans and strengthening fisheries, but also to investing in the future of our community.

Congratulations to our 2025 scholarship recipients—we can’t wait to see all that you accomplish!

Make an Impact Today

Your support helps us honor veterans, protect Lake Superior’s fisheries, and give back to children and families in our community. Every donation, sponsorship, and volunteer hour brings us closer to our mission.