BBQ, ice cream are good lures for derby Downeast Salmon Federation features bass

The Downeast Salmon Federation has announced it will conduct its inaugural bass fishing derby, which will be held on Sunday on the lower Pleasant River.

Registration for the derby will begin at 7:30 a.m. at the old Columbia Falls Town Hall, across from the post office. Registration fees are $5 for adults, $2 for those age 13 to 17, and $1 for children age 12 and younger.

Fishing begins at 8 a.m., while the weigh-in will take place from noon until 1 p.m. Winners will be announced at 1:15 p.m.

Trophies will be awarded for the total cumulative length of all fish caught per group. Anglers who catch the shortest and longest bass will also get trophies.

A barbecue lunch will begin at noon, featuring hot dogs, hamburgers and chicken. At 2 p.m. a free ice cream social will be held, followed by a student art auction featuring river and fishing themes.

Tours of the Pleasant River Fish Hatchery will be conducted at 4 p.m.

Throughout the day there will be educational displays. Fishing experts will also be on hand to give instruction and tips for those in need.

Canoes and fishing gear will be available on a first-come basis and may be reserved by calling the Downeast Salmon Federation at 483-4336.

Since 1982, the Downeast Salmon Federation has protected and conserved important river, scenic, recreational and ecological resources – particularly endangered Atlantic salmon and other native fisheries – for the benefit of all. It protects more than 2,000 acres (about 15 miles of river, stream shores) and provides access to all of its properties. The Downeast Salmon Federation operates the only non-governmental, endangered Atlantic salmon hatchery in the country and is a registered non-profit organization.

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