More than 1,000 anglers blanketed the frozen expanse of Sebago Lake over Valentine’s Day weekend, turning the 25th annual Sebago Lake Rotary Ice Fishing Derby into one of the largest winter events the fishery has seen in years. Ranked among the top three turnouts of the past decade, the 2026 derby blended competition, community, classic hardwater action, and a trophy lake trout.
While many spent the holiday weekend making dinner plans, anglers across the region were preparing for early starts by loading sleds, organizing gear, and heading onto the ice before sunrise.
A Cold Start and Early Action
The weekend began with frigid single digit temperatures as anglers set traps and dropped jigs across carefully chosen locations. It did not take long for the action to begin.
The first flag of the trip produced a solid 5 pound lake trout, setting the tone for a promising day. While not a leaderboard contender, every fish entered into the derby counted toward the fish pool, which offered thousands of dollars in gift certificates.
Moments later, another flag signaled opportunity, resulting in a 20 inch lake trout coming through the ice. Early success, combined with steady flag activity, hinted that the derby would deliver strong results.
The Fish to Beat
As anglers moved between fishing spots and registration stations, word spread quickly of a standout catch. At the Raymond Beach check in, a crowd gathered around a massive lake trout that would ultimately define the weekend.
Weighing in at 17.45 pounds and stretching over 38 inches, the fish immediately became the one to beat. It drew steady attention from competitors and spectators alike, with many recognizing that topping it would take something extraordinary.
Despite a full second day of fishing still ahead, the giant lake trout held its lead and ultimately secured first place in the togue category.
Changing Conditions on Day Two
Sunday brought a shift in weather, with strong winds sweeping across the ice and forcing anglers to adapt. Relocating to more sheltered areas became key, and portable shelters offered protection from the elements.
Inside one such shelter, anglers used electronics to track fish movement beneath the ice. Watching a fish approach and strike a jig added a level of excitement that traditional tip up fishing does not always provide.
The day’s lone catch came on a jig, marking a memorable first lake trout for one angler and highlighting the effectiveness of mixing techniques even in challenging conditions.
Strong Competition Across Categories
The derby showcased impressive catches across multiple species, with competitive entries in lake trout, pickerel, perch, and pike divisions.
Top lake trout honors went to the 17.45 pound winner, followed by solid fish in the 10 to 13 pound range. Pickerel and perch categories featured tight standings, while the pike division rewarded consistency, with the top angler landing eight fish over the weekend.
Beyond the leaderboard, dozens of participants benefited from the fish pool, adding another layer of excitement and reward for anglers of all skill levels.
Community Impact and Event Success
The derby was about more than fishing. Proceeds from the event supported local initiatives that assist families and individuals in need throughout the region.
Strong participation, favorable conditions, and generous sponsorship all contributed to a successful weekend. Organizers noted that turnout ranked among the highest in recent years, reinforcing the derby’s reputation as a premier winter event.
With the lake fully frozen and anglers spread across miles of ice, the 2026 derby delivered exactly what winter fishing is all about. Camaraderie, competition, and the excitement of chasing trophy fish made it a weekend to remember for everyone on the ice.
Image/Source: bangordailynews
