Northern Snakehead
Northern Snakehead is a predatory invasive fish native to China, Russia, and Korea that was first discovered in Delaware waters around 2010.
They're opportunistic feeders capable of surviving in poor water quality and can breathe air through a specialized chamber, allowing them to survive up to four days out of water in moist conditions.
Scientific Name: Channa argus
- These fish are easily identified by their snake-like head, long dorsal and anal fins, large mouth with sharp teeth, and dark irregular blotches along brown bodies.
- Adults typically measure 12-24 inches with the Delaware state record at 15 pounds 8 ounces.
Fishing in Delaware
Delaware River
Lums Pond
Delaware Bay
Cohansey River
Leipsic River
Maurice River
Susquehanna River
Nantuxent Cove
Mispillion River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- They prefer shallow, stagnant waters with heavy vegetation and mud substrates.
Key Locations
- In Delaware, they're now common throughout the Delaware River, Christina River, Brandywine River, C&D Canal, Leipsic River, Nanticoke River, Broad Creek, Deep Creek, Marshyhope River, Choptank River and their tributaries, plus numerous ponds including Becks Pond, Noxontown Pond, Garrisons Lake, Massey Mill Pond, Mudmill Pond, Records Pond, and Portsville Pond.
Specific Spots
- Target shallow, vegetated waters with mud bottoms - the shallowest, swampiest areas typically hold the most fish.
- They prefer areas warmed by afternoon sun and can often be found with their backs exposed in extremely shallow water.
Northern Snakehead FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Northern Snakehead in Delaware?
Essential lures include topwater frogs (especially hollow-bodied varieties), buzzbaits, spinnerbaits, plastic worms, jigs, and topwater poppers - basically any lure used for largemouth bass will work. Live baits like golden shiners, minnows, and larger baitfish work well, especially in cooler weather.
What flies work for Northern Snakehead in Delaware?
Effective fly patterns include foam divers, Game Changers (various styles), topwater mouse and frog patterns, Clouser minnows, and zonkers.
When is the best time to fish for Northern Snakehead in Delaware?
Northern Snakehead fishing in Delaware is open year-round. Spring and early summer are peak seasons due to increased aggression during spawning periods.
How do you catch Northern Snakehead in Delaware?
Fish tend to follow lures for considerable distances before striking, so maintain steady retrieves and be prepared for explosive surface takes. Sight fishing techniques work well.
What do Northern Snakehead eat?
Northern Snakeheads are aggressive predators that feed on soft-rayed fish, frogs, crustaceans, small birds, mammals, and reptiles.
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