Preparations continue for this year’s Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship.

A section of Front Street is closed to permit the event.

Spokesperson Jeannette Cawston says several area businesses have stepped up to give them a hand with the big tent.

“We have people like KBG trucking. They give us the forklifts,” says Cawston.

“(M.L.) Caron Electric gives us the scissor lift. Caron comes there and hooks us all up on Monday. It’s just unbelievable how much help we have.”

The event, which gets underway on Wednesday evening, is celebrating its 30th year.

Cawston says their volunteers have contributed to its longevity.

“Our volunteer group is just second to none as far as I’m concerned. They run that bass tournament,” says Cawston.

“Many of the volunteers, not just the directors or me as a coordinator, but there are people who have been part of the place since its inception. They’re coming back and running the leaderboard. They’re looking after all the angler slips. It’s really exciting.”

The traditional boat parade will kick off the event, followed by Taylor’s Story, a tribute act that has performed around the world.

Manitoba magician/ventriliquist performs Thursday afternoon, with Thunder Bay’s Sensational Hot Rods on stage at night.

Quest for the Best takes place on Friday, while the Killers Hooks close out the week’s entertainment on Saturday evening.

Nearly 120 angling teams from across the region are taking part in the fishing event, with over $70,000 in cash prizes available and $15,000 to the winners.