NEWS
ANOTHER INVASIVE NORTHERN SNAKEHEAD FISH CAUGHT IN LAKE WYLIE
Another Northern Snakehead fish was caught recently in Lake Wylie – one of a small number caught since 2002. This highly predatory, non-native fish can grow over 3 feet long and over 15 pounds. They aggressively feed on amphibians, fish, and aquatic birds. It has been known to survive 3-4 days out of water while traveling across land searching for a new habitat.
If they become established and spread, they have the potential to cause severe damage to the ecosystem in Lake Wylie, the Catawba River and elsewhere.
For more information about the Northern Snakehead, go to the NC Wildlife Resources Commission website - FAQS, Questions and Answers About the Northern Snakehead Fish.
See pictures of the Northern Snakehead and the bowfin with which it is sometimes confused.
NOTE: It is unlawful to introduce, transport, purchase, possess or sell live snakeheads in North and South Carolina. If you think you have caught a snakehead, DO NOT RELEASE IT! Keep the fish, freeze it or place it on ice and contact either the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, 919-707-0220 or the S.C. Department of Natural Resources, Fisheries Biologist, Robert Stroud at 803-684-4078 or 803-366-7024.
BE SAFE ON THE LAKE THIS SUMMER!
Lake law enforcement officers and the Commission encourage boaters of all ages and experience to take a NASBLA approved boating safety education class.
Check for classes here.
COMPLETE INFORMATION ON BOATING LAWS IN NORTH AND SOUTH CAROLINA:
North Carolina Boating Laws and Regulations
South Carolina Handbook of Boating Laws and Regulations
ASIAN GRASS CARP RELEASE TO MANAGE HYDRILLA IN LAKE
The Lake Wylie Marine Commission has partnered with Duke Energy to stock the lake with 500 sterile Asian grass carp. The carp will not reproduce but they will help control the growth of the hydrilla that has been found in two locations in the lake. Hydrilla is an highly invasive water plant that is considered to be the most troublesome aquatic plant in the United States.
- It is not legal to catch and keep sterile grass carp. Fisherman should release the carp immediately if they are caught.
- Learn more about Hydrilla and other invasive plants and species, how they can impact Lake Wylie and how you can protect the lake.
Protect Your Waters
SCDNR Aquatic Species Nuisance Program
NC State University – Aquatic Plant Management Web Site
- Report a suspected sighting of invasive plants or wildlife to:
Bo Ibach, 704-365-5508, chasi3@aol.com
North Carolina
Duke Energy Aquatic Weed Program
Ken Manuel, 704-875-5424, klmanuel@duke-energy.com
South Carolina
Department of Natural Resources
Chris Page, 803-755-2836, pagec@dnr.sc.gov