So you’ve caught a long, slimy mean-looking fish. It has sharp teeth, and rough scales, and looks like a dinosaur…
Did you catch a Bowfin or a Snakehead? Let’s dive in!
Are Bowfin and Snakehead the same?
Bowfin and Snakehead are not the same species of fish. The Bowfin is native to the United States and common throughout the southeastern and midwestern states. Snakehead may refer to any of the four species of snakehead (Genus Channa) that are native to Asia. All four species of Snakehead are invasive to the United States and often confused with the native Bowfin.
How To Tell The Difference Between Bowfin vs Snakehead
The easiest way to distinguish the difference between a bowfin and a snakehead is the type and placement of the fins.
- Snakehead have a very long dorsal fin (on top) and long anal fin (on bottom).
- Bowfin have a long dorsal fin (on top) but small pelvic fins (middle bottom) and small anal fins (bottom).
- Snakehead have a long, pointed head that is flattened on the top.
- Bowfin have a distinct ‘eye’ spot near the base of the tail.
- Snakehead have pelvic fins beneath the pectoral fins.
- Bowfin are often tan with hints of green, yellow or light brown.
Bowfin are native to the United States and common in the southern and midwestern states. They are known to hit bass fishing lures, have very sharp teeth, and are from an ancient order of fish called Amiiformes. Males have a distinct spot on the upper portion of their tale.
Snakehead are a family of fish native to Asia. There are currently 4 recognized species of invasive snakehead fish found in the United States, likely introduced inadvertently from the aquarium or exotic food trade. Let’s take a closer look at each species and where they can be found.
Bowfin
Northern Snakehead
Blotched Snakehead
Bullseye Snakehead
Giant Snakehead
Can you eat Bowfin?
Bowfin are not known as a desirable fish to eat like crappie or perch; although yes they are completely edible. The meat tends to be soft and jelly-like instead of nice firm fillets.
Most bowfin recipes call for smoking, making patties, or stew due to its strong flavor and soft consistency.
In some areas of the United States, Bowfin is regarded as a delicacy. For example, in Louisiana, they are often called “Choupique” and prepared cajun style.
Many Native American tribes revered the Bowfin as a high-quality food source.
How to prepare and cook Bowfin:
As with any fish you’ll want to be sure the meat is prepared for cooking. Keep the bowfin alive as long as possible, or put it immediately on ice to keep it fresh.
Fillet the fish by running your knife down the backbone, and around the large rib cage. Remove the organs and fillet off the meat. You can leave the skin on, or remove it.
To smoke season the fillets generously and place in a smoker for 2-3 hours at a temperature of 175-200 degrees Fahrenheit.
Related: Are Freshwater Drum Good To Eat? You May Be Surprised!
Can you eat Snakehead?
Unlike Bowfin, snakeheads are excellent table fare and highly desired! The meat of a snakehead is firm, white and flaky making it a delicious and versatile fish.
Catching and cooking of snakehead is encouraged because they are invasive and may harm other native fish populations.
In some areas of the world, Snakehead is regarded as having medical properties with the ability to heal wounds and internal injuries.
How to prepare and cook Snakehead
As with any fish you’ll want to be sure the meat is prepared for cooking. Keep the snakehead alive as long as possible, or put it immediately on ice to keep it fresh.
You can also cut the gills to ‘bleed’ the fish. Fillet the fish by running your knife down the backbone, and around the rib cage.
Remove the organs and fillet off the meat. You can leave the skin on, or remove it.
Snakeheads can be prepared in a number of ways, and supposedly…they are delicious!
See Also: Are Carp Good To Eat? Why The Poor Reputation?
Conclusion
Although Bowfin and Snakehead look similar, they are completely different species.
However, both of them can be found in North America and are often caught by anglers when targeting more traditional sport fish.
Both Bowfin and Snakeheads can be a welcome change of pace when fishing- they are strong fighters and are known to jump and spin at the boat.
Bowfin are edible and Snakehead have excellent table fare. It’s a great idea to educate yourself on the differences between these fish because you never know when you may catch one.
I hope this article helps you tell the difference between Bowfin vs Snakehead.
Thanks for reading, now go fishing!
Related: Can You Eat Gar Fish? (Results May Surprise You!)
Additional Reading
- Crazy Facts About the World Record Crappie
- What Size Hooks for Smallmouth Bass? Quick Guide
- Large and in Charge-Mouth: 10 of the Best Bass Lures of All Time (And Where to Buy Them)
- Emperor of the Sun(fish): What You Need to Know About the World Record Bluegill
- Coppernose Bluegills: How They’re Different from Common Bluegill
- Bluegill vs Brim: Differences & Terminology, Explained!
