The M&M Great Lakes Sport Fishermen are gearing up for one of the area’s longest-running fishing traditions.

The 46th Annual Brown Trout Derby returns this weekend at the Menominee Marina, with anglers competing for thousands of dollars in prizes while supporting local conservation and youth fishing programs.

Chairman Alan Blom says the derby officially gets underway Friday evening, with weigh-ins beginning Saturday morning.

Beyond the fishing, participants can also take their chances in a raffle featuring nearly 70 prizes, including a $5,000 grand prize. Blom says one thing that makes the derby special is its commitment to supporting local businesses.

This year’s event also gives anglers a chance to contribute to fisheries research. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources will be collecting information on fish caught during the derby to help guide future stocking efforts.

Blom says fishing has been exceptional this season, with anglers reporting strong catches of

Fishing tickets are available through Saturday at noon, while raffle tickets will remain on sale through Sunday afternoon. Proceeds from the derby help fund fish stocking efforts, youth fishing programs, boating safety initiatives, and other conservation projects throughout the Marinette-Menominee area.