The Snakehead Controversy

Would you release this invasive fish? Northern Snakehead have become an incredibly controversial issue on the East Coast. Native to Asia, these "Frankenfish" were first discovered in the US near the Potomac River in 2002 and have since spread to other waterways. The snakehead is a hardy predator that can breathe air and survive in stagnant bodies of water. Although their invasion has led to concerns about their impact on native species and the environment, many anglers are now targeting these fish for the thrill of a hard fight and to harvest their surprisingly tasty fillets. It’s a common misconception that it is outright illegal to release snakehead back into the water, but the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has established regulations prohibiting their importation and transportation across state lines.

Photo features Grant Alvis, Fishing Guide in Virginia

Some argue that there is simply not enough evidence to support the idea that snakehead are truly outcompeting other wild species like largemouth bass, and that they could even provide a valuable food source to address food insecurity by providing an alternative source of protein. Others argue that they are a clear threat to the environment and native species.

Whether you see them as an exciting new angling opportunity, a valuable food source, or a threat, the snakehead's impact on the East Coast will surely continue to be a topic of debate for years to come.