How to Catch Snakeheads in South Florida: A Guide for Anglers
Snakeheads, exotic fish native to China, Pakistan, and Malaysia, have made themselves at home in South Florida’s freshwater lakes and canals. First documented locally in 2000, these fish can grow up to 15 pounds and are known for their ferocious fighting and delectable white flesh.
Captain Alan Zaremba, a fishing guide based in Hollywood, specializes in leading anglers to peacock bass in South Florida and the Amazon River basin. While snakeheads are occasionally caught by his customers, Zaremba also offers dedicated fishing trips for these elusive fish. He notes that the best snakehead fishing season runs through the summer and early fall, tapering off as water temperatures drop.
Zaremba recommends targeting snakeheads in shallow, narrow canals in southern Palm Beach County. These fish thrive in environments with little water depth and abundant vegetation, where they lie in wait for unsuspecting prey like small fish, frogs, lizards, snakes, and even baby ducks and birds.
When it comes to lures, Zaremba suggests using soft-plastic frogs, speed worms, and topwater plugs to entice snakeheads. Long, accurate casts are crucial to avoid spooking these wary fish. Anglers should employ 15- to 20-pound braided line on spinning outfits for maximum casting distance and retrieval efficiency.
For the best chances of success, Zaremba advises maintaining a slow, steady retrieve to keep the lure on the surface and entice snakeheads to strike. Watching the wake created by these fish as they approach the lure adds an element of excitement to the fishing experience.
In South Florida, prime snakehead fishing locations include Palm Beach County canals connected to the Lake Ida system, as well as the C-13 Canal in Broward County and the canal along State Road 84. Anglers in Miami-Dade County can try their luck in the canal along Krome Avenue for a shot at catching these elusive and challenging fish.