Louisiana Invasive Northern Snakeheads

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is warning anglers about northern snakeheads, an invasive species of fish that could pose a risk to native fish populations and ecosystems.

To inform anglers, LDWF recently produced a bulletin with information about the species.

LDWF issued guidance to anglers that catch a northern snakehead:

• DO NOT put the fish back into the water
• Take a side view photo of the fish (if possible)
• Kill it, freeze it (double bag)
• Make sure to note the exact location of the catch
• Contact a local LDWF office or call the LDWF aquatic invasive species hotline
• It is illegal to possess, sell, or transport live snakehead Louisiana

In addition, LDWF noted that Louisiana’s climate is similar to their native habitat, meaning snakeheads can easily flourish in the state’s waterways. Northern snakeheads are a highly predatory species that can out compete and prey on native species.

Invasive snakehead fish could impact Louisiana’s recreational and commercial fisheries, according to biologists.

Northern snakeheads consume mostly fish, but will also eat other small aquatic animals such as frogs and crawfish. Adult fish can reach up to 3 feet in length.

Northern snakeheads closely resemble bowfin (Choupique), one of Louisiana’s native fish species. Northern snakeheads can be distinguished from bowfin by the following features; long, extended anal fin, lower jaw that protrudes past the upper jaw, and lack of a black spot at the base of its tail.

Confirmation of northern snakeheads in Louisiana came in 2023 when the species was discovered in a swampy habitat in Concordia Parish. Biologists suspect that the fish migrated to Louisiana from Mississippi or Arkansas.

Northern snakeheads are established in Arkansas. Numerous catches have been recorded around White River National Refuge, Merrisach Lake, Big Piney Creek, and the Mississippi River. Recently, northern snakeheads were found in Missouri.

Because the northern snakehead is considered to be an invasive species, LDWF plans to monitor the situation closely.

Related Information

Northern Snakeheads

Bowfin