posted on: June 5, 2012

Potomac River Snakehead Tournament

Type: Tidal
Region: Southern
Location: Potomac River - Smallwood State Park

<p>Over 1,400 pounds of northern snakeheads were caught and removed by anglers fishing the Potomac River on June 2 – 3, 2012 as part of the Snakehead Smackdown 2012 held at Smallwood State Park (http://potomacsnakehead.com/). Northern snakehead is from Asia and an invasive species in Maryland. Anglers have helped to control the spread and population growth of the species by catching and killing the animals. In doing so, they have also helped to minimize the impact on native species and the ecosystem.</p> <p>The organizers of the tournament provided cash prizes to winners of the tournament. Top prize went to Teamblazer Bowfishing, catching 230 pounds and winning them $1,500. Second prize went to anglers (all under the age of 16!) who caught 33 snakehead and 180 pounds. </p> <p>The tournament organizers also gave $700 to MD DNR to spend on control efforts. All of that money will be used to learn why northern snakehead has spread to other rivers of the Chesapeake Bay.</p>