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  • Writer's pictureGerry Caron

Reel in the Fun: Join the 2024 Chesuncook Lake Salmon Derby!

Updated: Jun 4


a captured salmon

Salmon Fishing Derby:


Mark your calendars for an exciting weekend and reel in the fun at the Chesuncook Lake Salmon Derby. You must have a ticket to register a fish. Please do not "party fish" and register other angler's fish. This is a charity derby and we appreciate all the participants supporting the event by purchasing at ticket and following the rules.


Chesuncook Lake Salmon Derby Prizes:


  • 1st Place: $500 - Donated by NREC

  • 2nd Place: $200 - Donated by Northwoods Jack and Construction

  • 3rd Place: $100 - Donated by Northwoods Jack and Construction


Fish Pool Prize:


  • $1,000 for a fish randomly drawn from the fish pool.

  • Prize donated by NREC, in honor of Dr. Charles and Alice Cushing and the Andre Emerson Cushing Corporation.


Additional Information:


  • Other prizes may also be available in the fish pool.

  • Anglers will receive one fish pool ticket for each salmon under 16 inches that they bring into the weigh station.


Derby Details:

This derby is exclusively for landlocked salmon caught in Chesuncook Lake, Caribou Lake, and Ripogenus Lake. All fish entered in the derby must be caught between 12:01 AM on Saturday, May 25, and the close of the derby at 6:00 PM on Sunday, May 26. You must be in line by 6:00 PM on Sunday to have your fish weighed and included in the derby. Derby ticket sales will end at 12:00 PM on Saturday, May 25. A valid entry form is required to have your fish weighed.


Weigh-In Stations:

  • Fish can be weighed at the Maine Forest Service barn adjacent to the boat launch on Chesuncook Lake.

  • Weigh station hours:

  • Saturday: 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM

  • Sunday: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM


Important Rules:

  • You must have a ticket to register a fish.

  • Please do not "party fish" and register other anglers' fish.

  • This is a charity derby, and we appreciate all participants supporting the event by purchasing a ticket and following the rules.


Prize Details:

  • Largest Salmon: $500 for the heaviest salmon, with additional prizes for second and third place ($200 and $100, respectively). Winners will be ranked by weight, with tiebreakers based on length and the earliest time weighed. Anglers may only enter one salmon 16 inches or over in the derby.

  • Fish Pool: A $1,000 prize, plus potentially other prizes, will be randomly drawn from the fish pool tickets. Each salmon under 16 inches brought to the weigh station earns one ticket. Winners will be notified by phone and do not need to be present to win.


Regulations:

  • All Maine Fishing Regulations must be followed.

  • The winner must provide proof of a valid fishing license.

  • There is no size or bag limit on salmon under 16 inches on Chesuncook, Caribou, and Ripogenus Lakes. The primary goal of the derby is to encourage anglers to harvest these smaller salmon.


Ticket Sale Locations:



Join us for a fantastic weekend of fishing, fun, and community spirit at the Chesuncook Lake Salmon Derby. We look forward to seeing you there!


What to Do in Moosehead Lake

For those seeking more activities and detailed guides, Moose River Lookout offers a wealth of information about the Moosehead Lake area. From seasonal events and community news to outdoor adventure guides and dining recommendations, Moose River Lookout is your new resource for exploring the region. In addition to hiking, you can find information on boating, fishing, camping, and local attractions.

Want more information checkout our Moosehead News!


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