Northern Snakehead
Northern Snakehead is an invasive predatory fish that has established populations in District of Columbia waters, particularly in the Potomac River system and Anacostia River. These air-breathing freshwater fish are aggressive carnivores.
Scientific Name: Channa argus
- Easily identified by their snake-like appearance with flattened heads, eyes positioned on top, long dorsal and anal fins, and brown coloration with dark irregular blotches.
- They can grow over 33 inches and weigh up to 19 pounds.
Fishing in District Of Columbia
Potomac River
Georgetown Channel
Triadelphia Reservoir
Patuxent River
Tidal Basin
Monocacy River
Patapsco River
Pentagon Lagoon
Seneca Creek
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Found in both the Middle Potomac-Anacostia-Occoquan and Middle Potomac-Catoctin watersheds.
Key Locations
- Potomac River system and Anacostia River in District of Columbia waters.
Specific Spots
- Shallow areas with thick vegetation, preferring stagnant or slow-moving waters with mud substrates and aquatic plants like hydrilla, milfoil, and spatterdock.
- Waters less than 4 feet deep with heavy cover.
- Look for areas with floating docks, hydrilla beds, milfoil, spatterdock, and other heavy cover.
Northern Snakehead FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Northern Snakehead in District Of Columbia?
Topwater frogs (especially effective in summer), poppers, buzzbaits, chatterbaits, spinnerbaits, and walk-the-dog lures. Live bait like mummichogs, small fish, frogs, or crayfish.
What flies work for Northern Snakehead in District Of Columbia?
Foam frogs and divers, Game Changer streamers (Feather Changers, Jerk Changers, Finesse Changers), Clouser minnows, and zonkers.
When is the best time to fish for Northern Snakehead in District Of Columbia?
Spring through fall, with peak action in summer months when water temperatures are warmest. Spawns from late April through August (avoid fishing during spawning periods).
How do you catch Northern Snakehead in District Of Columbia?
Work lures slowly with strip-pause retrieves, as snakehead often follow prey before striking. During cooler months or after cold fronts, switch to live bait fished under a bobber 1-3 feet deep.
What do Northern Snakehead eat?
Aggressive carnivores feeding primarily on fish (including bluegill, killifish, and other species), as well as frogs, crayfish, and aquatic insects.
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