ROXBURY — The Roxbury ATV Riders Club is hosting an ice fishing derby at Roxbury (Ellis) Pond on Saturday, Feb. 13 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. The derby, a decades old tradition in the area, is happening on Maine’s Free Fishing Weekend, which allows people to fish even if they do not possess a license.

The club is partnering with the non-profit Team Hailey Hugs, which will receive a portion of the proceeds from the derby.

“Hailey’s Hugs has been in the fight against childhood cancer for a while now and continues to support the community while meeting this battle head first,” Trail Master Mike Hansen said.

The club is also partnering with Aubuchon Hardware in Rumford, where store manager Kevin Jamison donated a “substantial” amount of money so a variety of fishing related prizes could be provided.

People who pay the $10 entry fee will have a shot at winning more than $5,000 in prizes, raffles, food and “plenty of fish.” Prizes include an electric auger and fishing shack.

First place money for biggest pickerel, bass and trout is $250, second place is $150 and third place is $100. One hundred dollar prizes are also being given for largest perch and largest crappie caught.

Hansen said there will also be cash prizes awarded for the largest game fish of any species not listed.

Buckets will also be out for donations for the Greater Rumford Community Centers Pay It Forward Program, which helps underprivileged people in the community.

Derby tickets will be available the day of the derby at the Aubuchon’s Hardware Tagging Station on the Roxbury Pond. Tickets can also be bought prior to the derby at Mills Market in Andover, Aubuchon Hardware (Rumford location) and Bakers Country Store in Roxbury.

“This is a great chance for anyone new to it or interested in giving fishing a try, a chance to give it a go,” Hansen said.  “We want the community to come together and for everyone to leave with money, a prize, or the memory of a lifetime.”

 

 

 

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