Kayak Fisherman Catches New Maryland State-Record Snakehead
A Maryland man has set a new state record for catching a Northern Snakehead fish. Damien Cook, a kayak fisherman from Rhodesdale, caught the 19.9-pound fish while fishing on the Nanticoke River on July 6, 2023. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources declared the catch a new state record.
The invasive species, which is native to Asia, has become a popular game fish in Maryland in recent years. Cook’s catch could also qualify as a world record, pending International Game Fish Association verification.
Cook said he used a topwater frog lure when he hooked the snakehead. He said the fish put up an intense fight, pulling him around the river in his kayak for several minutes before he could reel it in.
The previous state record for Northern Snakehead was set in 2021 when a fish weighing 18.42 pounds was caught in the Potomac River.
The catch is a reminder of the importance of responsible fishing practices and the need to protect Maryland’s waterways from invasive species. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources encourages anglers to dispose of bait properly and to clean and dry their equipment to prevent the spread of invasive species.
