WOODBRIDGE, Va. – Once you catch a Snakehead fish you have to kill it immediately.
And that’s what Joey Campbell did after reeling one in July 1, while fishing on Quantico Creek and the Potomac River.
His Snakehead weighed in at 13.6 pounds, about average for a fish that can grow to be 33-inches long.
The Northern Snakehead is an invader from Asia and Korea, and since 2002 has been found in the Potomac and in Aquia Creek in Stafford County, to points north in Prince William, Fairfax and near Maryland shores.
It’s still a mystery as to how this creepy fish found its way to here. One thought is someone who owned one as a pet and then released it into the river.
Unlike most fish, the Snakehead is able to live up to three days outside of water breathing through an air sac it uses as a primitive lung. Using its pectoral fins, it can almost walk short distances across land.
It’s a top-level predator that eats mostly fish and has no known natural enemies here in the U.S., according to the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.
“I killed it and then cut its head off. Then I called the state office phone number and left a message on their machine,” said Campbell.
He did everything by the book. Caught it, killed it and then phoned it in. Officials in Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland don’t want anyone releasing them back into the river after being caught.
It is illegal to own a Snakehead without a permit in Virginia. Even if you do have one, state officials still would like to know where you caught the fish so they can keep track of the Snakehead population.
The fish are not dangerous to humans, though wildlife officials are working to eradicate them from local waters.
Since the Northern Snakehead is a freshwater fish, you probably won’t find them swimming south of the U.S. 301 Bridge at Dahlgren, as the water becomes too salty the closer it flows to the Chesapeake Bay, officials said.
Knowing all of that, Campbell was still proud of catch.
“That was a big fish,” he said.
Recent Stories
In a unique and chilly demonstration, residents of Fredericksburg gathered Wednesday to protest a proposed data center development near the Rappahannock River by building snowmen.
Organized by the Rappahannock Community Coalition, the “Snowmen Against Data Centers” rally took place just one day after nearly 10 inches of snow blanketed the region. The snowmen were erected on the Mary Washington University Campus, City Hall, and a house off Harrell Road in Stafford County.
Fredericksburg’s Riverside Center for the Performing Arts has a new star in its kitchen: Chef Stefan Boutchyard. With experience spanning local restaurants and high-profile catering events—including President Donald Trump’s inauguration—Boutchyard is revamping the dinner theater’s menu. His first creation? A Southern-inspired menu for Heartbreak Hotel, featuring Elvis-themed dishes like cornbread waffles and Viva Las Vegas shrimp cocktail. Looking ahead, he’s planning Mediterranean flavors for Jesus Christ Superstar and launching an interactive sushi-making class. Click the link and read the whole story.
Prince William County’s State of the Parks event, initially scheduled for Thursday, February 13, 2025, at Forest Park High School, has been postponed due to weather conditions and other considerations.
The State of the Parks event, set to feature insights from Prince William County Parks and Recreation Director Seth Hendler-Voss, will be rescheduled, with a new date and time to be announced soon.
“We want to ensure that all participants have the best possible experience and that the event can take place safely and under optimal conditions,” officials stated in their announcement.
The Stafford County Board of Supervisors is considering a zero-tax-increase budget for 2025, which has drawn community members’ support and concern. During the February 4, 2025, meeting, parents and education advocates urged the board to fund Stafford County Public Schools (SCPS) fully, emphasizing the need for higher teacher salaries, facility repairs, and student resources.
Speaking during the public comment period, Shannon Fingerholtz, a parent from the Hartwood District, called on the board to take responsibility for properly funding Stafford schools.
“Our students, our teachers, our staff, our community require a quality school system,” Fingerholtz said. “Quality means decently paid staff, buildings in good repair, and adequate materials. These all require funding.”
A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
