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.
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Traffic disruptions and lane reductions are set to begin on northbound I-495 (Capital Beltway Inner Loop) near Tysons, Virginia, as part of the 495 NEXT project’s Big Beam Weekend. The impacts will start tonight, Friday, January 24, at 9 p.m., and continue through 5 a.m. Monday, January 27. Motorists are strongly advised to avoid the area and plan alternate routes, as significant delays and backups are anticipated.
Discover the hidden gems and rich history of Downtown Manassas on the thrilling Manassas Scavenger Hunt! This exciting walking tour will take you on a journey through the charming streets of Manassas, unlocking the secrets of its iconic landmarks and beloved attractions. From the historic Veterans Memorial to the majestic Water Tower and the Opera House, each location offers a glimpse into the city’s fascinating past.
Join the adventure and solve clues, unravel mysteries, and dive into the captivating stories that make Manassas unique. It’s a perfect outing for friends, families, or anyone looking for a fun and engaging way to explore this vibrant city.
Ready to embark on this unforgettable journey? Visit Manassas Scavenger Hunt for tickets and details.
With contraception rights under scrutiny nationwide, Virginia Democrats are doubling down on efforts to safeguard access, even as they brace for potential pushback from Gov. Glenn Youngkin, the Virginia Mercury reports.
House Bill 1716, introduced by Del. Cia Price, D-Newport News, passed the House of Delegates on Thursday, while a companion bill from Sen. Ghazala Hashmi, D-Chesterfield, cleared the Senate Education and Health Committee.
Last year, similar bills passed both chambers with bipartisan support but were ultimately vetoed by Youngkin.
The Manassas City Council began its three-day retreat on Thursday at James Madison’s historic Montpelier, located over 80 miles south of the city. The event quickly raised concerns about public access after members of the public who traveled to attend the meeting discovered the venue was locked and inaccessible.
Virginia law mandates that government meetings remain open to the public unless they are specifically classified as legal closed-door sessions. According to Virginia’s open meetings laws, the Council’s work session and retreat did not qualify as a closed-door meeting, raising questions about compliance.
Former Councilwoman Lynn Forkell Green attended the event and confirmed the gate to the complex was locked. “I couldn’t get in. Had I not had the cell numbers of council members, I would not have gained access because the meeting space was more than a mile past the gate, and the complex was closed,” Forkell Green said. While she was able to contact a council member who provided the entry code, she noted that most members of the public would not have such relationships or access.
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:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
