Photo: USGS / Public domain (via Wikimedia Commons)
Channa argus
Northern Snakehead
Freshwater
About this species
A long, mottled air-breathing predator common in Korean weedy ponds, marshes and slow rivers, able to survive low oxygen. It ambushes fish and frogs among dense vegetation, guarding its young fiercely. Frog lures and topwater baits worked over thick weed draw explosive strikes.
Season
123456789101112
Depth
0 – 5 m
Habitat Spots
LakeReservoirRiver
Fishing Methods
LureFloatBottom
Bait & Rig
Frog-imitation lures and topwater baits punched through thick vegetation; live frogs and large earthworms on heavy float or bottom rigs are also traditional.
Edibility & Taste
Traditionally eaten in Korea and China as a restorative food (보양식); the firm, boneless-looking flesh is used in spicy soups and braised stews.
Similar Species
Far-eastern catfish (메기) lacks scales and has long barbels and a flattened head; snakehead has scales, a cobra-like patterned head and no barbels.
Record Weight
9 kg