Top Fishing Derbies in Maine for Feb 2025 (Part 1) – Dates, Prizes & More!
Winter in Maine brings more than just snow—it's a time for anglers to gather on frozen lakes and ponds to compete in thrilling fishing derbies. With events happening throughout February, there's something for everyone, from seasoned fishermen chasing big prizes to families introducing their kids to the joys of fishing. These derbies highlight Maine's breathtaking winter scenery, rich traditions, and friendly communities. Here are the top fishing derbies in Maine for Feb 2025 (Part 1).
Upcoming Open Water and Ice Fishing Derbies
February 1, 2025
Sponsor: Hollandstrong Community Foundation
Location: Wilson Lake, Wilton
Weigh-in: Derby Shack at the Public Boat Launch
Total Cash Prizes: $3,500
Contact: Deb Roberts | 207-491-0827
February 1-2, 2025
Sponsor: Town of Houlton
Location: Nickerson Lake, Drews (Meduxnekeag Lake), and Mill Pond in Hodgdon, New Limerick, Linneus & Oakfield
Weigh-in: Siders Variety & Redemption, 53 Calais Road, Hodgdon
Contact: Nancy Ketch | 207-521-5938
February 1, 2025
Sponsor: Sheepscot Lake Fish and Game Association
Location: Statewide, All Legal Waters
Weigh-in: Club House, 1579 Rt. 3 Palermo (Sheepscot Lake Boat Landing)
Contact: Rodney Glidden | 207-485-0190
February 1-2, 2025
Sponsor: Pushaw Lake Snowmobile Club
Location: Pushaw Lake and Little Pushaw, Hudson
Weigh-in: Pushaw Lake Snowmobile Club House, Hudson
Total Cash Prizes: $450
Contact: Bruce Caswell | 207-745-2677
February 2, 2025
Sponsor: American Legion Post 55
Location: Holland (Sokosis) Pond, Limerick
Weigh-in: Boat Launch, Route 11
Contact: Michael Ward | 207-608-5837
February 2, 2025
Sponsor: Town of Oakland Recreation Department
Location: Messalonskee Lake, Salmon Lake (Ellis Pond), McGrath Pond, North Pond, East Pond, and Long (Great) Pond in Belgrade, Sidney & Oakland
Weigh-in: Atwood Elementary School, Heath Street, Oakland
Special Feature: Kids-only derby (participants under 16); no entry fee or cash prizes.
Contact: Aaron Parker | 207-509-0014
February 8, 2025
Sponsor: Standish Fish & Game Club
Location: Horne (Pequawket) Pond, Limington
Weigh-in: Moy-Mo-Da-Yo Facilities
Total Cash Prizes: $2,300
Contact: Sandra Fecteau | 207-590-2072
February 8, 2025
Sponsor: Corinthian Masonic Lodge #95
Location: Big Indian Pond, Saint Albans
Weigh-in: Town Landing, Town Landing Rd, St. Albans
Special Feature: Kids-only event (participants under 16).
Contact: Brock Leavitt | 207-416-4054
February 8, 2025
Sponsor: St. Michael School Belgrade Lakes Chain Derby
Location: Salmon Lake (Ellis Pond), Long Pond, McGrath Pond, East Pond, North Pond, Messalonskee Lake, Great Pond
Weigh-in: Belgrade Community Center on Great Pond
Total Cash Prizes: $5,400
Details: Visit https://www.smsmaine.org/ice-fishing-derby.
Contact: Alyssa Quintal | 207-446-0205
February 8, 2025
Sponsor: Royal River Rod & Gun Club
Location: Lower Range Pond, Poland
Weigh-in: Lower Range Pond State Park
Contact: Will Bartlett | 207-576-0433
February 8, 2025
Sponsor: Lincolnville Central School PTO
Location: Levenseller Pond, Megunticook Lake, Norton Pond
Weigh-in: Breezemore Park, Lincolnville
Contact: Chelsea Mitchell | 207-251-0139
February 8, 2025
Sponsor: Springvale Fish and Game Club
Location: All Legal Waters in York County
Weigh-in: Iron Tails Saloon, 559 ME-109, Acton
Contact: Jon Gielarowski | 857-753-5522
February 9, 2025
Sponsor: Lovell Lions Club
Location: Kezar Lake, Lovell
Weigh-in: Pleasant Point Beach, Kezar Lake
Total Cash Prizes: Biggest Togue - Adult 1st $1,500, 2nd $500, 3rd $300; Youth $100. (Salmon excluded per derby rules.)
Contact: John Bacchiocchi | 207-515-2247
February 9, 2025
Sponsor: Vassalboro Business Association
Location: Statewide, All Legal Waters
Weigh-in: The Mill, 934 Main Street, Vassalboro
Contact: Samantha Lessard | 207-314-4940
Why Attend a Maine Fishing Derby?
Family-Friendly Fun: Many derbies cater to kids, making them perfect for family outings.
Generous Prizes: Some events offer thousands in cash, like the Belgrade Lakes Chain Derby ($5,400) or the Hollandstrong Community Foundation Derby ($3,500).
Beautiful Scenery: From Kezar Lake to Pushaw Lake, Maine’s frozen landscapes provide a stunning backdrop.
Tips for Participants
Gear Up: Dress warmly and bring proper ice fishing gear.
Check Rules: Review derby-specific guidelines, including species restrictions and entry requirements.
Stay Safe: Monitor ice conditions and be prepared for winter weather.
Enjoy the thrill of the catch and the warmth of community at Maine’s winter fishing derbies! For more details, contact sponsors directly or visit the event websites.
What to Do in Moosehead Lake
Want more information? Check out our Moosehead News for the latest updates on seasonal events, local news, and detailed guides to make the most of your visit to the Moosehead Lake region.
ATV/Snowmobile:: Explore thousands of miles of pristine wilderness.
Boating/Canoeing/Kayaking: Explore the lake's serene waters.
Camping/Swimming: Find the best campsites for a wilderness retreat.
Fishing/Hunting: Discover prime fishing spots.
Hiking/Biking: Explore the wilderness.
Skiing/Sledding/Snowboarding/Snowshoeing: Miles of cross-country ski trails for those seeking a quieter adventure. Ski and snowboard rentals, plus lessons for beginners.
Local Attractions/Sightseeing: Learn about must-see sights in the region.
Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.
Perfect Accommodation for Your Visit
Look no further for the perfect accommodation during your visit to the Monson, Shirley, Greenville, Rockwood, and Jackman areas of Maine. Moose River Lookout offers an idyllic retreat nestled along the serene Moose River at the base of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains in Rockwood.
Ultimate Outdoor Getaway
With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.
Book Your Stay
Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout our Rockwood Moose River cabin!
Phone: 800-544-0300
Email: mooseriverlookout@gmail.com
Address: 4054 Rockwood Rd Rockwood, ME 04478
Website: Moose River Lookout
Mark your calendars and gear up for these exciting Top Fishing Derbies in Maine for Feb 2025!