It's that time of year again, when every angler around is packing their cooler and heading out to the Derby grounds for a weekend of fun and fishing. And while some say that's enough reason to be out there, there's also the hope that at the end of that line will be the Big Salmon that takes home the 56th Annual Golden North Salmon Derby trophy

The Golden North Salmon Derby is organized by the Territorial Sportsmen, Inc. - an organization devoted to sportfishing and hunting, and to educating the public about fish and wildlife conservation as well as hunting and fishing regulations and firearms safety.

The Salmon Derby raises funds for the Territorial Sportsmen scholarships, awarded each year to young recipients who have shown an interest in and participated in fishing, hunting and other outdoor activities, and displayed adherence to the principles and goals of the Territorial Sportsmen, Inc.

But the scholarship recipients aren't the only ones who can take home something besides fish from the Derby days. From its humble beginnings in 1947, with a total prize value of $4,500, the Golden North Salmon Derby has now grown to a total of $96,000 to be won in cash and prizes. And then there is of course the $100,000 salmon swimming around somewhere, courtesy of Budweiser...

Whether you're a newcomer to the Derby or one of the oldtimers, we wish you happy fishing, and perfect fishing weather. Not like the first Derby, which saw such bad weather that officials decided to interrupt it and continue the following weekend.

Make sure to read up on the official Derby Rules so that you don't miss out on something.

Stick to the boating courtesy tips to make sure not only you but everyone around you has a pleasant experience too.

See what last year's Derby winner has to say about his prize catch and his hopes for this year's Derby. Ryan Beason is possibly the second youngest ever - second only, we believe, to 5-year-old Jody Pasquan who won the Derby in 1963.

Read what a seasoned charter captain has to offer when it comes to advice about keeping that salmon on the line, once you've hooked it.

And then there are of course the prizes. Check out the top 30 prizes and read about special prizes and scholarship fish prizes.

And just so that there's no confusion, check out what the different species of salmon look like.

This year's Golden North Salmon Derby is dedicated to Norma Jean McCorckle and Elaine Vuille, who this year celebrate their 50th year as Derby volunteers. If you see them (most years, the ladies are likely to be found out at the Tee harbor float), make sure to congratulate them and thank them for a job well done. Without volunteers, there would be no Salmon Derby. And if, like Norma and Elaine, you catch the Derby bug - contact the Territorial Sportsmen and they'll be happy to find you a volunteer spot that fits you.

And during the Derby, make sure to keep current with the standings by checking out the Salmon Derby Special on the Web at www.juneauempire.com

Happy Derby Days!!!