AUGUSTA, Maine – On Sunday, June 8, legislators from around the state won’t be casting votes, but casting fishing lines to raise money for charity.

The 12th Annual Governor’s Cup Charity Bass Tournament will take place at the Birches Family Campground on Cobbossee Lake in Litchfield. Senators, representatives, and the legislative staff have been invited to attend.

        The catch, measure, and release charity tournament will pit members of the House against members of the Senate, and will raise funds for the March of Dimes.

        “This annual Governor’s Cup Charity Bass Tournament is a fun-filled event that challenges House and Senate members to compete against each other, with the biggest winner of all being the March of Dimes,” said Commissioner Roland “Dan” Martin. “It is taking place in the height of spawning season and promises to provide plenty of action.”

        The day will begin at 6 a.m. with breakfast, followed by a morning of fishing until 12:30 p.m., and an awards ceremony at 1 p.m. Commissioner Martin will present the Governor’s Cup trophy to the winners as soon as the scoring is completed.

        The Maine Bass Federation will supply boats, boat captains, fishing tackle, and expert advice.

The Birches Family Campground is located in Litchfield. From Augusta, take Route 202 at Manchester through a series of lights to the last intersection, turn left onto Pond Road. Travel south along the lake for 10 miles to a stop sign. Turn right and immediately turn right again onto Cobbossee Road at the dam. Travel one mile to the campground entrance on your right. Follow the dirt road for one mile into the campground.

        The tournament is open to all members of the Legislature.