ST. AGATHA, Maine – The Long Lake Ice Fishing Derby, Maine’s largest ice fishing event, has just set a new record for the number of participants. This year, a total of 2,184 people signed up for the derby, breaking last year’s record of 1,852 registered participants. With more than 300 new sign-ups, this derby has clearly become one of the most anticipated events in the state.

A Record-Breaking Event

This year’s derby not only broke attendance records but also set another milestone: a massive cash purse of $25,000, which is the maximum allowed by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. The grand prize pool totaled $70,000, with prizes like an ATV and an ice shack. These amazing prizes and the larger cash purse contributed to the event’s growing popularity.

Paul Bernier, the derby organizer, said that the increased participation and prize money are part of what has helped make the event such a success. “The excitement and competition are growing each year,” Bernier said. “We’re thrilled with the turnout and the support from the community.”

Prize Winners Shine

This year’s derby saw some impressive catches. In the adult category, first-place winners included Jason Landeen with a 6-pound, 12.9-ounce salmon, Camden Huck with a 19-pound, 1.7-ounce togue, and Shelly Daigle with a 2-pound, 0.3-ounce brook trout.

In the youth category, Malcolm Gilliland won first place with a 4-pound, 10.8-ounce salmon, Zander Valcourt with a 10-pound, 15.7-ounce togue, and Lucas Raymond with a 1-pound, 3.2-ounce brook trout.

The derby also had exciting categories for all ages. Landon Morin took first place for “most perch” with an amazing total of 645 fish caught. In the “largest fish” category, Britney Bagley won with a perch weighing 1 pound, 12.7 ounces, while Mike Thibodeau took home first for the largest cusk at 12 pounds, 9.1 ounces, and Jake Theriault caught the largest muskie, weighing in at 29 pounds, 8 ounces.

Celebrating 20 Years of Ice Fishing Fun

This year marked the 20th anniversary of the Long Lake Ice Fishing Derby. The anniversary celebration included a special performance by the band Savage Pianos, which entertained the crowd with “dueling pianos” music under an 80-foot tent. The celebration added a festive touch to the event, bringing together participants and spectators for an unforgettable experience.

Although the event is named after Long Lake, participants are allowed to fish in 10 lakes across the St. John Valley region. This expands the derby’s reach and gives participants more opportunities to catch fish in different areas.

Bringing Business and Charitable Giving to Northern Maine

The Long Lake Ice Fishing Derby isn’t just an exciting competition; it also has a positive impact on the local economy. The event brings in fishers from all over the country, including people from 20 different states such as California, Arizona, and from as far as Canada. This influx of participants means that hotels, restaurants, gas stations, and other local businesses see an increase in sales during the event.

In addition to boosting the economy, the derby is also known for its charitable contributions. This year, the derby donated funds to the Edgar J. Paradis Cancer Fund, which helps families of local cancer patients who have to travel far for treatment. They also contributed to Northern Maine Medical Center’s capital campaign, supporting the growth and improvement of healthcare services in the area.

A Growing Tradition

The Long Lake Ice Fishing Derby is so popular that many participants book their rooms for the following year before even leaving the event. Popular spots like the Long Lake Motor Inn, located near the lake, often have a waiting list after the derby weekend because of the high demand for rooms.

Organizers are already looking ahead to next year’s derby, with tentative dates set for January 24 to 26, 2026. These dates will depend on state permitting, but the excitement and anticipation for the next event are already building.

Conclusion

The Long Lake Ice Fishing Derby continues to grow in size, excitement, and importance. This year’s record-breaking attendance, impressive prizes, and charitable donations all highlight how much this event has come to mean to the community in St. Agatha and beyond. With its 20th anniversary celebration, the derby not only brings people together for some great ice fishing but also helps support local businesses and causes, making it a standout event in Maine’s calendar.

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