They were first discovered in the Potomac River in 2004 – the infamous snakehead fish, imported from Asia and illegally released into our public waterways. The Game Department went on a snakehead safari, trying to eradicate the invasive species, but to no avail. The menacing looking snakeheads spread throughout the Potomac and then to the James and Rappahannock rivers and even into Lake Anna and Lake Burke. Most recently, they were discovered in Lakeview Reservoir in Colonial Heights. If they keep expanding their range, snakeheads could soon become Virginia’s official state fish.
Snakeheads are obviously adapting to Virginia waters but they are not wiping out other species, such as bass and sunfish. They are vicious in appearance, but harmless to humans, unless you stick a finger within their toothy mouths – not advised. Snakeheads are notoriously hard fighters on hook and line and they are also delicious to eat – probably the main reason for their proliferation. Someone likely stocked a few in a creek or pond near their home so they could catch and cook them, but the snakeheads escaped.
The Game Department has given up their attempts to eradicate snakeheads, but they still want to know if you catch one and where. Anglers can keep snakeheads, but must kill them immediately and not attempt to transport a living fish.
Snakeheads. Coming soon to a river or lake near you!