Maine Ice Fishing Derbies 2026: Dates, Prizes, Community Events & Free Fishing Weekend
- Gerry Caron
- 1 day ago
- 5 min read
Maine Ice Fishing Derbies 2026: Dates, Prizes & Legendary Winter Traditions
Maine’s 2026 ice fishing season promises another unforgettable winter packed with competitive derbies, grassroots community events, and time-honored traditions that draw anglers from across New England and eastern Canada. From iconic waters like Moosehead Lake, Sebago Lake, and Long Lake to small-town ponds maintained by volunteer fire departments and snowmobile clubs, ice fishing in Maine is as much about community as it is about catching fish.
Whether you’re chasing trophy lake trout, planning a winter getaway around a major derby weekend, or introducing kids to the sport during Free Fishing Weekend, this guide covers the best Maine ice fishing derbies in 2026, including dates, locations, and official planning resources.
🎣 Major Maine Ice Fishing Derbies – Winter 2026
Long Lake Ice Fishing Derby
📅 January 24–25, 2026
📍 Long Lake, Aroostook County
💰 One of Maine’s largest prize pools
A flagship northern Maine winter event, the Long Lake Ice Fishing Derby features multiple species divisions, cash prizes, raffles, and vendor tents, making it a destination derby for serious anglers and families alike.
Moosehead Lake Togue Derby
📅 February 6–8, 2026
📍 Moosehead Lake, Greenville
🎯 Focused on lake trout (togue) population management
Now in its 19th year, this derby blends competitive fishing with conservation and showcases Maine’s largest lake against a dramatic winter backdrop.
Sebago Lake Rotary Ice Fishing Derby
📅 February 14–15, 2026
📍 Sebago Lake
🎟️ Grand prize drawings (often $5,000)🌱 Supports invasive species management
One of southern Maine’s most popular winter events, perfectly timed with Free Fishing Weekend.
Belgrade Lakes Chain Ice Fishing Derby
📅 February 7, 2026
📍 Belgrade Lakes Region
Fishing across multiple interconnected lakes, this derby offers variety, scenic beauty, and strong regional participation.
Cobbossee Ice Fishing Derby (Kyle Armstrong Memorial)
📅 March 7, 2026
📍 Cobbosseecontee Lake
A late-season favorite for anglers eager to extend winter fishing into March.
🚒 Community & Fire Department Ice Fishing Derbies (2026)
While Maine’s major derbies attract statewide attention, community-run and fire department ice fishing derbies form the heart of the season. These events are deeply rooted in local tradition and often serve as fundraisers for volunteer fire departments, snowmobile clubs, youth programs, and nonprofits.
Expect affordable entry fees, door prizes, food tents, warming fires, and kids’ divisions, creating welcoming environments for beginners and families. Many are scheduled around Free Fishing Weekend, making them ideal for newcomers.
🎣 January 2026 Community Ice Fishing Derbies
Anson–North Anson Snowmobile Club Derby
📅 January 10, 2026 |
📍 Sandy Pond, EmbdenSupports snowmobile trail grooming and winter access.
Downeast Coastal Conservancy Youth Derby
📅 January 24, 2026 |
📍 Vining Lake, Cooper
👧🧒 Ages 15 & under | FREE🔗 https://downeastcoastalconservancy.org
Calais Lions Club Derby
📅 January 31, 2026 |
📍 Round Pond, Charlotte
Pushaw Lake Snowmobile Club Derby
📅 January 31 – February 1, 2026
📍 Pushaw Lake & Little Pushaw, Hudson
❄️ February 2026 Fire Department & Community Derbies
Dexter Firefighters Association Derby
📅 February 6–8, 2026 |
📍 Lake Wassookeag, Dexter
Standish Fish & Game Club Derby
📅 February 7, 2026 |
📍 Horne (Pequawket) Pond, Limington
Town of Houlton Ice Fishing Derby
📅 February 7–8, 2026
📍 Mill Pond, Drews Lake & Nickerson Lake
Milo Fire Department Derby
📅 February 14–15, 2026
📍 Boyd, Ebeemee, Seboeis & Schoodic Lakes
Hartland Volunteer Fire Department Derby
📅 February 14–15, 2026
📍 Moose, Morrill, Indian & Stafford Ponds
China Lake Ice Fishing Derby (China Four Seasons Club)
📅 February 15, 2026
📍 China Lake⚖️ Weigh-in: China Village Fire Department
🎗️ Youth & Special-Interest Derbies
Gene & Lucille Letourneau Ice Fishing Derby (Spectrum Generations)
📅 February 15, 2026 |
📍 Statewide
Slab City Neighbors Kids Derby
📅 February 21, 2026 |
📍 Heald Pond, Lovell
👦 Kids-only event
🎉 Free Fishing Weekend – February 14–15, 2026
Maine’s Free Fishing Weekend allows anyone to ice fish without a license, making it one of the best weekends of the season for families, visitors, and first-time anglers.
⚠️ All size limits, bag limits, and special regulations still apply.
📋 Rules, Safety & Official Planning Resources
Before heading onto the ice, anglers should always check:
Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife (MDIFW)
Official 2026 Ice Fishing Derby Calendar
🔗 https://www.maine.gov/ifw/fishing-boating/fishing/derbies.html
Some lakes feature no bag limits or slot limits for invasive species management—always verify regulations for your chosen waterbody.
❄️ Why Ice Fishing in Maine Is Unmatched
✔️ Hundreds of frozen lakes and ponds
✔️ Strong community traditions
✔️ Events for every skill level
✔️ Family-friendly and beginner-focused options
✔️ Stunning winter scenery statewide
🧊 In Closing
From high-profile tournaments like the Moosehead Lake Togue Derby to small-town fire department fundraisers, Maine’s 2026 ice fishing derbies showcase the spirit of winter in the Pine Tree State. These events bring people together, support local communities, and celebrate one of Maine’s most cherished outdoor traditions.
What to Do in the Moosehead Lake Region & Beyond: Your Complete Guide to Outdoor Adventure & Local Attractions
Planning a trip to the Moosehead Lake region in Maine? You're in for an unforgettable experience packed with adventure, breathtaking natural beauty, and cozy lodging options. From high-adrenaline ATV trails to peaceful paddles on glassy waters, the Moosehead Lake area is a four-season playground perfect for outdoor lovers, families, and anyone looking to unplug and explore.
Want more insider tips? Discover top recommendations at Moose River Lookout, your go-to resource for:
🛶 Boating & paddling routes
🎣 Fishing hotspots
🏕️ Wilderness camping sites
🥾 Trail maps for hiking & nature walks
🍽️ Local dining & shopping recommendations
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.
🏡 Where to Stay: Moose River Lookout – Your Basecamp for Adventure
Rockwood Maine Lodging • Moosehead Lake Cabin Rentals
Located in Rockwood, Maine, Moose River Lookout is the ultimate vacation home rental for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Nestled on the Moose River, this cozy home features:
Private Dock with access to Moosehead Lake
3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | Sleeps 7
Free WiFi & TV
Backup Generator
Easy driveway dual access for trailers, boats, ATVs, & snowmobiles
Direct access to ITS66 Snowmobile Trails
Year-round availability for summer AND winter sports
Perfect home base for skiing, snowmobiling, fishing, and wildlife watching
Whether you're hiking Blue Ridge, casting a line in Moose River, or hitting the snowmobile trails—Moose River Lookout is where your Maine vacation begins.
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, lodging Rockwood Maine a Vacation Home Rental, on Moose River with access to Moosehead Lake and Mt. Kineo!
Phone: 800-544-0300
Email: mooseriverlookout@gmail.com
Address: 4054 Rockwood Rd Rockwood, ME 04478
Website: Moose River Lookout
🎣 Bundle up, drill a hole, and experience Maine ice fishing at its finest.
