Why you should kill the invasive northern snakehead fish in NC

Evan Moore, The Charlotte Observer on Jun 4, 2025

Published in Outdoors

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. — There’s an invasive species of fish spotted in North Carolina that is so dangerous, officials in other states are advising those who catch them to kill them immediately.

The northern snakehead, a fish native to China that can grow up to three feet long, closely resembles the bowfin, according to the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC), but coloration is different, with the snakehead looking more like a python. Snakeheads also have a longer lower body fin that is about half the length of their body.

And while bowfins are relatively harmless, the northern snakehead is known to ravage ecosystems. Experts say they are voracious predators that feed on other fish, birds, and mammals, and possess an eerie ability to survive on land for up to four days.

The fish is so dangerous, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources warned residents who see them to kill them as soon as possible, The State reported.

NCWRC released photos of the northern snakehead in 2019 and advised the public to freeze the fish or keep it on ice if found, and then contact authorities to collect the specimen.

Here’s what to know about the fish, including where it has been found in the state, whether they’re dangerous to humans — and whether you can eat them.

Where has the northern snakehead been found in NC?

The fish is not established in North Carolina, but “a few individual fish have been collected” over the years, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

According to a report from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, two snakehead were reportedly caught by anglers in August 2002 from Lake Wylie. Five years later, a large adult snakehead was caught by a fisherman in South Fork Catawba River.

Is the northern snakehead dangerous to humans?

Most snakehead fish avoid contact with humans, and those in captivity act shy around people, according to the USGS.

But they can become aggressive if approached while guarding their eggs, the USGS warned.

“Caution is always advisable when handling live snakehead, just as for any other large predatory fish with teeth,” the USGS says.

Is the northern snakehead safe to eat?

Yes. In fact, at least one state is promoting methods to cook the fish as a way to control its population.

In 2019, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources released a video detailing ways to filet the northern snakehead.

“Their meat is delicious, nutritious and can easily be substituted for just about any flaky white fish, such as perch, catfish or even striped bass,” Jim Thompson, a fish biologist in the department said in the video.

The taste of northern snakehead has been described as having a “mild flavor,” and the meat is leaner and less oily than rockfish, Baltimore Magazine reported.

Is it legal to possess northern snakehead in NC?

No. According to the NCWRC, “it is unlawful to transport, purchase, possess or sell live snakehead in North Carolina.”