x
Breaking News
More () »

Warmth does not slow annual Sebago Ice Fishing Derby

SEBAGO LAKE (NEWS CENTER Maine) -- Despite warm temperatures Saturday, hundreds of people gathered on Sebago Lake for the annual Ice Fishing Derby.

"It's excellent weather conditions today -- we've got a lot of ice," said Geoff Sparrow, one of the fishers. "It's pretty easy to get around the ice right now. There's not a ton of snow so you can drag your sled around pretty well."

Nearly 500 people hit the ice for a day of sport. The organizers were concerned on Friday due to rain that can melt ice.

"The rain, sleet, snow -- we were worried about it but it's fine," said organizer Debbie McPhail.

McPhail said there were 16 inches of ice on Jordan Bay, one area of Sebago Lake. Other areas did not have the two inches wardens recommend for safety before people walk or skate on ice.

The main bay is open and the gut on Frye Island is open. You just have to fish ar your own risk," said McPhail.

There's a $100,000 dollar prize for a record-shattering fish. Organizers plan to donate the fish to food pantries after flash-freezing them.

Before You Leave, Check This Out