Our expert for this month is Captain Mike Sielicki, of Apex Predators Potomac Creek. As fall hits we’re going to ask him about the ins and outs of fall snakehead fishing.
Q: Does fishing for snakeheads change when summer turns into fall, and if so, what do you do or use to adjust to the changes?
A: Yes, when water temperatures start falling the fish begin to stage in different ways. Most noticeably, they feed more on sub-surface baits. When this happens I have two lures I throw the most as this happens: a Strike King chatterbait and plastic “critter” baits.
Q: Run us through your gear - what size rod/reel/line/leader do you like to use?
A: I use a seven- and seven-and-a-half-foot rod, heavy and medium-heavy moderate fast action, either spinning or casting. My 4000/4500 size spinning rods are spooled with 30-pound Power Pro and casting rods have 50- to 80-pound line. I do not use a leader, ever, but instead use a Palomar to tie directly to the lure.
Q: How do the snakeheads in the Potomac and its feeders react to tidal changes? How does that affect the way you fish for them?
A: Tide changes have a lot to do with catching the snakeheads, because the fish move way up into grass when it’s high even during fall. I like to fish the last three hours of an outgoing and the first three hours on an incoming for the best action.
Q: You take a lot of people out there - what's the most common mistake you see anglers make when they're trying to catch snakeheads?
A: The most common mistake I see is people trying to set the hook by sweeping the rod. Often people think that since we’re using bass lures they should set the hook like on a bass, but with snakeheads you need to set the hook straight up with the rod, not sweeping it to the side. And never, ever give these fish any slack.
Q: What haven't we talked about that people chasing snakeheads this fall need to know?
A: Along with keeping track of the tide changes people need to watch barometric pressure. Changes in it also have a big effect on how these fish bite. When there’s rain or a front coming they become more difficult to catch, and a lot of wind makes it tougher to get bites, too.
Q: Open mic time - is there anything else you'd like to say to all the anglers out there?
A: Always keep that line tight and keep your hooks sharp—and no leader allowed!
If you want to give snakehead fishing on Potomac Creek a try, call Capt. Mike at (540) 295-9301.