Delaware Fish Facts for The Recreational Angler

Northern Snakeheads have a large mouth with many teeth.

They can be differentiated from bowfin by the long anal fin extending along the lower back half of the body.

Illustration by Susan Trammell Illustration, courtesy of USGS

Season	Open Year-Round INVASIVE: Please do not return to water. Immediately kill and contact Fish and Wildlife at 302-739-9914.
Size Limit	No Size Limit INVASIVE: Please do not return to water. Immediately kill and contact Fish and Wildlife at 302-739-9914.
Daily Limit / Person	No Limit INVASIVE: Please do not return to water. Immediately kill and contact Fish and Wildlife at 302-739-9914.
Delaware Range	Northern Snakeheads have now been reported in: The Delaware River, Christina River, Brandywine River, C&D Canal, Leipsic River, and their tributaries to the North. They have also been reported in the Nanticoke River, Broad Creek, Deep Creek, Marshyhope River, Choptank River, and their tributaries to the South. Northern Snakeheads have also been confirmed in Becks Pond, Noxontown Pond, Garrisons Lake, Massey Mill Pond, Mudmill Pond, Records Pond, and Portsville Pond.
Abundance in Delaware Waters	Common
General Habitat and Food Preferences	Northern Snakeheads prefer ponds, streams, rivers, and other freshwater areas where they can find vegetation. They prefer to eat soft-rayed fish but will also feed on frogs, crustaceans, small birds, mammals, and reptiles.
Did You Know?	Northern Snakeheads, also known as the “Frankenfish”, are an introduced species to Delaware (meaning they are non-native). They are native to China. Northern Snakeheads can use their swim bladder to get oxygen and survive for up to four days out of water, so long as they are moist.
Common Lures and Baits	Almost any lure used for largemouth bass fishing (spinnerbaits, plastic worms, jigs, and topwaters) will catch Northern Snakeheads. Golden Shiners and minnows are common live baits. INVASIVE: Please do not return to water. Immediately kill and contact Fish and Wildlife at 302-739-9914.
Typical Sizes Caught	The average Northern Snakehead reported is between 12” and 24”, with the largest being an 32” 12 pounds 12 ounce state record.
Citation Minimum Length and Weight	No Live Release Awards will be given for Snakeheads Sport Fishing Tournament Award (must be dead at the time of weigh-in) Adult: Any Youth (age 15 and under): Any
Delaware State Record	12 pounds 12 ounces Bobby Smith 2017

Delaware's Government