Michael Wrobel, Jr

Chesapeake Channa, also known as northern snakehead, are a widespread invasive fish in Maryland. They grow to large sizes and consume native aquatic organisms, and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources encourages anglers to harvest the fish to help the ecosystem. Luckily, these fish are also fun to catch and delicious to eat, with a consistency and taste similar to halibut. Anglers can catch them with a variety of bait and tackle. They’re frequently caught on lures similar to those used to target largemouth bass. This fish is often found in shallow waters close to shore and areas with heavy vegetation or cover. They’re most active in early spring through the fall, and live bait can be effective when temperatures are colder. Channa are also a popular target for bowfishers. Some popular areas to target them include Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, Potomac River, and the upper Chesapeake Bay—though Channa are found in nearly every tributary of the Chesapeake Bay and many freshwater impoundments. There are no seasons and no limits for Chesapeake Channa, so get out there and target these fish. By harvesting Chesapeake Channa, you’re also helping the ecosystem—removing them from Maryland’s waterbodies is the best way to tackle this invasive species and limit further expansion and population growth. For more information, fishing tips, and recipes, go to Maryland DNR’s page on Chesapeake Channa: dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/p…