Snakehead
LOCATIONS
BODIES OF WATER
Snakehead can be found in various bodies of water throughout the Mid Atlantic region, including rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and ponds. They are an invasive species and have established populations in certain areas. Snakehead prefer warm, shallow waters with abundant vegetation and cover.
Maryland: Potomac River, Patuxent River, Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, Eastern Bay, Deep Creek Lake.
Virginia: Occoquan River, Chickahominy River, Lake Anna, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, James River.
West Virginia: Ohio River, Potomac River, Shenandoah River, Elk River, Monongahela River.
Delaware: Delaware River, Broadkill River, Mispillion River, Delaware Bay, Nanticoke River.
North Carolina: Albemarle Sound, Chowan River, Cape Fear River, Neuse River, Lake Waccamaw.
South Carolina: Santee River, Waccamaw River, Cooper River, Lake Marion, Lake Moultrie.
STRUCTURE/HABITAT
Snakehead are often found in areas with dense aquatic vegetation, including lily pads, grass beds, and emergent vegetation. They prefer habitats with submerged logs, fallen trees, and shallow areas with overhanging vegetation. Snakehead can tolerate low oxygen levels and can even survive in stagnant water.
Look for them near the edges of vegetation, in backwater areas, and around structures such as docks or submerged brush piles. They are also known to inhabit muddy or weedy areas. Snakehead are ambush predators and tend to hide among vegetation, waiting for their prey to come close.
PATTERNS
SPRING
During the spring, snakehead become more active as the water temperature rises. Look for them in shallow, weedy areas near spawning grounds. They may be more aggressive and readily strike at various baits and lures during this time.
SUMMER
In the summer, snakehead tend to seek cover in dense vegetation and shady areas to escape the heat. Look for them near submerged structures, lily pads, and around submerged grass beds. Fishing early in the morning or late in the evening can be productive during this season.
FALL
As fall arrives, snakehead continue to actively feed to build up energy reserves. They may move to slightly deeper areas or transition to different habitats based on food availability. Look for them near vegetation edges, drop-offs, and structures. Use a variety of baits and techniques to entice them.
WINTER
Snakehead can still be caught during the winter, although they may be less active. They tend to seek warmer pockets of water or deeper areas with more stable temperatures. Look for them near deeper structures, submerged logs, or around artificial fish attractors. Slow presentations with soft plastics or live bait can be effective during the colder months.
Bait
Snakehead are opportunistic feeders and can be caught using a variety of baits. Common options include topwater lures, spinnerbaits, soft plastics, and live bait such as minnows, frogs, or nightcrawlers. They are known to strike aggressively, so be prepared for a strong fight once hooked.