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MANISTIQUE -- The annual Salmon and Trout derby ended Sunday (7-31) at the boat harbor in Manistique.

With some heavy fish coming in, the crowd continued to grow as they gathered around to watch the final weigh-ins.  And no wonder, a grand prize of $3,000 went to the largest salmon and $2,000 for the largest trout.

Fishers say there seems to be less fish this year, but they are larger.

"Lot, lot of preparation.  Lot of people, volunteers, lot of help," said Salmon Derby Committee Chairman Dave Demers. "It works out good. It's been going up a little bit each year. I think last year was 21" that won, and now I see we got a 26" leading this year."

"Last year I fished with a different crew and it just so happened we caught the winning fish on Moonshine Lures and this year picked up a couple buddies," said Derby competitor Chad Germain.  "We've been fishing quite a bit again this year. As of right now were standing in first place again, so hopefully in the next hour it holds out."

"It was great, it was a little slow early, but we kept working at it and we actually had a great day. We ended up with six fish today," said Derby competitor Jason Doyon.

Salmon winners:

1.  Chad Germain of Engadine - 26.35 pounds, 36 inches, $3,000
2.  Greg Schutter of Manistique - 25.3 pounds, 36 1/2 inches, $1,380
3.  Nate Hoffman of Marquette - 24.5 inches, 39 inches, $1,104

Trout winners:

1.  David Labonte of Gladstone - 12 pounds, 32 1/4 inches, $2,000
2.  Greg Rutherford of Germfask - 10.6 pounds, 31 1/4 inches, $1,104
3.  Mike Skaritt of Manistique - 9.5 pounds, 28 1/2 inches, $920