Organizers of the second annual Long Lake Ice Fishing Derby are busily preparing for an expanded event this year that will not only offer plenty of fun and prizes, but will also disperse fishing pressure and allow anglers to enjoy other St. John Valley lakes.

The first edition of the derby was held exclusively on Long Lake, which is a noted Aroostook County producer of large landlocked salmon.

This year, Cross Lake, Square Lake and Eagle Lake are also in play, and an added togue category will reward anglers fishing for the large lake trout that reside in Eagle Lake.

This winter’s derby is set for Feb. 3-4, and the total purse has doubled to $3,000. The derby’s headquarters will again be at the Long Lake Sporting Club in Sinclair. All eligible fish will be weighed by derby officials at the Sporting Club.

Registration forms are available throughout Aroostook County, from Houlton to St. Francis, and through the town of St. Agatha Web site at www.stagatha.com/derby.asp. A portion of this year’s proceeds will again be donated to the Edgar J. Paradis Cancer fund, which is administered by Northern Maine Medical Center in Fort Kent.

Paul Bernier, the regional community development director for the towns of Frenchville and St. Agatha, said sponsorships from local businesses have been impressive.

Registration fees are remaining the same this year, with adult tickets costing $25 for the weekend or $15 for one day. Children age 15 and younger will pay $5 per day.

The preregistration deadline is Feb. 2 at 9 p.m., while Saturday and Sunday registrations will be accepted only at the Long Lake Sporting Club.

For more information or to request materials, call the St. Agatha town office at 543-7305 or send e-mail to pbernier@adelphia.net.

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