2012 Maryland Snakehead Fish Contest

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Anglers who catch a snakehead fish could win prizes worth up to $200 in the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) second annual snakehead contest.

Anyone who removes at least one of the invasive, non-native fish from the Chesapeake Bay’s watershed has the chance to walk away with prizes from Bass Pro Shops at Arundel Mills, the Maryland Park Service, the Potomac River Fisheries Commission and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

To enter, an angler should submit catch details and a photo of their dead snakehead online through the DNR Angler’s log, a popular social fishing site, at dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/fishingreport/log.asp.

The Northern snakehead is a non-native, invasive species that was introduced to the Potomac River. Since its introduction, snakehead populations have expanded because of their ability to adapt to the ecosystem.

Snakeheads now exist in the Potomac River and many of its tributaries from Great Falls to the mouth of the river. Anglers have found northern snakeheads as far away as the Rhode and Nanticoke Rivers.

Three lucky anglers will win from a random drawing. The prizes include a $200 gift card from Bass Pro Shops, a Maryland State Passport, which provides unlimited day-use entry for up to ten passengers in a vehicle, unlimited boat launching at State Park facilities and a 10 percent discount on State-operated concessions and boat rentals, or a Potomac River Fisheries Commission fishing license. DNR staff will randomly draw the winner on November 30, 2012.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is providing an embroidered “Snakehead Control” ball cap for anglers who report tagged snakeheads through the (800) 448-8322 line.

It is illegal to possess a live northern snakehead in Maryland. Additionally, Federal law prohibits the transport of live snakeheads into the U.S. or across State lines.

source: MD DNR