The Rangeley Region Guides’ and Sportsmen’s Association has moved its 2022 Mooselookmeguntic Landlocked Salmon Derby one week earlier to Saturday and Sunday, June 11 and 12.

The event is scheduled for 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and from 5 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday.

In 2020, the association began working with Maine’s Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife to construct a fishing derby for the Rangeley region that was aligned with its management plan. By catching and keeping smaller landlocked salmon, it is hoped to improve conditions for larger trophy fish, as well as improve the overall health of the population. The derby is consistent with current fishing regulations, according to a news release from the association.

After a lot of work, a derby was held last June that aimed at harvesting smaller landlocked salmon out of Mooselookmeguntic Lake. The department was able to be present and collect much data from the catch. Indications are that goals were achieved with light impact on other species and lake use.

More than $3,000 in prizes will be awarded.

Sponsors also will help to hold a separate Kids’ Fishing Derby during Outdoor Sporting Heritage Days. That event, held at the Kids’ Fishing Pond in Oquossoc, will have additional prizes awarded in various age groups.

Those interested in entering the derby, becoming a sponsor or helping as a volunteer, can visit rangeleyoutdoors.org/salmonderby or email salmonderby@rangleyoutdoors.org. Those planning on entering the derby are encouraged to do so as soon as possible. Because of capacity constraints, organizers may have to limit the total number of boats.

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