St. Agatha, Maine hosts the annual Long Lake Ice Fishing Derby, which is the largest ice fishing derby in Maine. Every January, anglers travel to northern Maine to fish some of the state's most legendary waters, competing for trophy catches, cash prizes, and bragging rights. The derby spans ten lakes and waterways across the St. John Valley, giving participants access to outstanding fishing for landlocked salmon, togue, brook trout, muskie, perch, and more.
The Long Lake Ice Fishing Derby is a celebration of Aroostook's winter culture. The event kicks off on Friday night with an opening ceremony that includes live music, great food, and a presentation - but don't stay out too late because Friday and Saturday you want to hit the ice hard. It is common for ice shacks to be decorated in comical ways. Ice shacks dot the frozen lakes, snowmobiles crisscross the landscape, and local restaurants, lodges, and communities welcome visitors from across New England and Canada. Whether you're chasing a prize-winning fish or simply experiencing your first day on the ice, there's no better place to experience winter in The County.
St. Agatha, Maine, beautifully situated along the shores of Long Lake, is a captivating cultural hub of the St. John Valley that offers a deep immersion into authentic Acadian history, close-knit community life, and pristine lakeside recreation. Known locally as "Sinclair" or "St. Agathe," the town fiercely preserves its unique heritage, where the French language is still proudly spoken and celebrated at the Ste-Agathe Historical Society, home to the landmark 1889 Hilaire Pelletier Log Cabin. Long Lake serves as the town's year-round crown jewel, drawing anglers for premier landlocked salmon and trout fishing, and hosting the famous Long Lake Ice Fishing Derby every winter. Seamlessly connected to Aroostook’s massive network of 2,300 miles of snowmobile trails and 1,300 miles of ATV trails, St. Agatha provides a direct gateway to backcountry exploration. Framed by rolling lakeside farmlands and breathtaking northern horizons, St. Agatha perfectly captures the rich traditions, warm hospitality, and serene beauty of Maine's northern border.
Aroostook County hosts a variety of vibrant events throughout the year. From the world-renowned Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Race in winter to the lively Northern Maine Fair in summer, there's always something exciting happening. Other highlights include the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest, Potato Blossom Festival, and the Scandinavian Houlton Arts and Crafts Fair. These events celebrate the region's culture, heritage, and natural beauty, offering unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike.
Places to go, things to see and what to do—all neatly laid out. Begin your Aroostook adventure with the official travel guide to ensure the only surprises during your trip are the good ones.
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