The creation of the Western Lake Superior Trolling Association was born and fostered by the realization that fishing and water related activities on Lake Superior, are a major part of the family, individuals and communities recreational and social heritage.

Lake Superior's fishery was on the rebound from a devastating invasion and attack by what is called Sea Lamprey. Having no predators in the great lakes, the Sea Lamprey freely roamed the lake, reproducing and destroying fish communities before the realization of their presence was known. Once the presence of Sea Lamprey was discovered, appropriate authorities at many levels of government's in both the United States and Canada took a variety of actions aimed at destroying Sea Lamprey and recovering the devastated fish communities. The actions taken by both countries worked and the recovery was underway. The native fish communities are returning and species introduced for recreational sport fishing are again providing the recreational and social values, so much a heritage to the Lake Superior area communities.

With a strong foundation of heritage and purpose for being, the Western Lake Superior Trolling Association quickly grew in membership and supporters. Concerns on how best to develop, nurture and protect the developing fishery were all high priorities with the people making up the organization. A diverse and healthy fish community became very important and all that encompassed the fishery.

Directions were requested and taken by the Western Lake Superior Trolling Association's governing body. Those directions came from the membership and supporters and were structured into an organizational working position and the by - laws.

Those positions are as follows:

• To monitor laws and regulations to ensure fairness and applicability,
• To insure adequate launch and harboring facilities.
• Monitoring water quality to preserve our resource.
• Promoting the association of sport fishing people in every way possible
• Educating the public on safe and effective boating and fishing methods

Many years have come and gone for the membership and supporters of the Western Lake Superior Trolling Association since those days in the early eighties. A few things have changed but, nothing in the fundamental make up or purpose of the organization. The people enjoy the gathering times, the social events and of course the abounding fish stories. Some stories are told by the Moms and Dads, Grandmas and Grandpas and now by the kids too!