Fort Kent International Muskie Derby

An Iconic St. John River Tradition. Set against the backdrop of Maine’s storied St. John River, the three day Fort Kent International Muskie Fishing Derby has earned its place as one of the Northeast’s premier freshwater angling competitions. Hosted annually by the Town of Fort Kent in collaboration with the Fort Kent International Muskie Derby Committee, this multi-day event attracts seasoned sportsmen and passionate newcomers alike, all chasing the elusive apex predator of the river: the muskellunge.

The derby opens Friday morning and runs through Sunday evening, with official weigh stations accepting entries throughout the weekend. Anglers from across the region converge on more than 225 miles of prime muskie habitat—a stretch of water known for its breathtaking scenery, wild spirit, and reputation for producing trophy-class fish.

A standout feature of the derby is the Erik Gardner Memorial Biggest Fish Competition, named in honor of a cherished local angler whose passion for fishing and deep roots in the community left a lasting impact. Each day, the angler landing the largest muskie will take home a cash prize, with bragging rights that carry serious weight among North Woods sportsmen.

More than just a competition, the Fort Kent derby is a celebration of heritage, camaraderie, and the shared pursuit of something greater than the fish itself. It’s about early mornings, river fog lifting at sunrise, and the stories told around the campfire after weigh-in. It’s about families returning year after year, and young anglers learning the ropes from seasoned veterans.

Participation and community support are what keep this time-honored tradition alive. Whether you're on the water, sponsoring a prize, or cheering from shore, your involvement ensures the derby remains a fixture in the Maine sporting calendar. This is more than a fishing tournament. It’s the North at its best.

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