Bold opening: A weekend of fishing, giving back, and community spirit hits Sebago Lake as the 25th Sebago Lake Rotary Club Ice Fishing Derby draws participants from across New England.
Sebago Lake, Maine — This year marks a milestone for the Sebago Lake Rotary Club as families, friends, and ice anglers gather for the 25th annual Ice Fishing Derby, turning a winter weekend into a celebration of outdoor fun and generosity.
“It's a great way to get families outside, breathe fresh air, and step away from screens,” says Mark Morrison of the Sebago Lake Rotary Club, highlighting the event’s family-friendly appeal.
The derby coincides with Maine’s Free Fishing Weekend, which allows anyone to fish the frozen lake without purchasing a license, expanding participation and excitement.
District Game Warden Peter Herring notes that many visitors come from out of state, attracted by the no-license requirement during this special weekend, making it an ideal time for the derby.
James Lizotte, visiting from Southern Maine, joined the event and described his first Sebago Lake fishing experience: “I've been here since 5:15 this morning and I caught this at 10,” he said, smiling about a sunny, calm day.
Lizotte credited the clear skies and mild temperatures for excellent fishing conditions, remarking, “It's not snowing, it's not brutally cold. The mornings were a bit chilly, but now it’s beautiful with the sun shining.”
Beyond the thrill of the catches, the derby serves a charitable purpose. Proceeds fund 12 local food pantries and other Rotary-supported charities, while meat from fish caught during the event is donated to local shelters.
Morrison recalls past impact, noting that the group once netted about 900 pounds of fish meat for a Portland soup kitchen, providing substantial quantities of fish chowder for those in need.
Competitors also enjoy friendly rivalry, with prizes awarded for the heaviest catches in several categories—lake trout, perch, and pickerel—and for the most pike.
The derby originated through collaboration with the Inland Fisheries and aims to reduce invasive species, with lake trout and northern pike identified as particular concerns for the local salmon population.
This year’s top moment included a winner who reeled in a 17.4-pound fish, just shy of Sebago Lake’s heaviest trout on record by one pound.
Although the tournament officially ends at 4 p.m. on Sunday, supporters and participants alike express eagerness to return next year for another round of ice, ice cream-like camaraderie, and community impact.
Would you attend a community event like this, drawn by both the sport and the chance to give back? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
