Sporting goods retailer Big 5 Sporting Goods Corporation has reported increased sales for the fiscal 2006 first quarter ended April 2.

Net sales increased by $17.1 million (9%) to $207.2 million from $190.1 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2005. Same store sales increased 5.3%, representing the company's 41st consecutive quarter of positive same store sales comparisons.

Gross profit increased 8.3% to $73.4 million from $67.8 million in the comparable period of the prior year.

Net income for the first quarter was $5.9 million compared with $6.4 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2005.

The company operates 327 stores in 10 states offering athletic shoes, apparel and accessories, as well as outdoor and athletic equipment for team sports, fitness, camping, hunting, fishing, tennis, golf, snowboarding and in-line skating.