SALISBURY,
Md.- Wildlife officials say the invasive species known as the
snakehead fish is taking over the Chesapeake Bay in alarming numbers,
and threatening other species. In an effort to cut down the
population, fishermen are being encouraged to catch the fish, and
some restaurants are serving it on their menus. WBOC wanted to know
how you would feel about the invasive fish cropping up as food in
Wicomico County.
One look at its face, and it is no wonder how
the snakehead got its nickname, "frankenfish."
"It's a
little strange looking. It's pretty ugly." noted Pamela Hart of
Salisbury.
And those unsightly looks are exactly why people
like Hart are a little skiddish about the idea of taking a bite.
"If
it were FDA approved, I would probably try it, but that would
probably be the only way," she said.
Tim Windsor said he
would be willing try it out, too, especially to help out the
Chesapeake Bay.
"You know, just to give it a try, like a
catfish," said Windsor. "Maybe something different to try. But
yes, if they can get rid of it and if they can do something with it,
it'd be nice to try and maybe eat.
At 1 Fish, 2 Fish in
Salisbury, John Connell offers a variety of fresh catches. He thinks
the snakehead fish could catch on.
"Obviously, it is kind of
an ugly fish but I think, especially here on Delmarva, I think people
kind of go beyond that," he explained. "I don't think it really
would scare people off too much. As long as the fish has a good taste
to it and it has a good price, I think they can get over the fact of
the presence of what it looks like."
Connell said he thinks
it might take a little while to build up a fan base, but as long as
there is a market for it, it' will sell.
Those
who have tried snakehead fish describe it as meaty, delicious and
clean-tasting. It has been well-received in upscale Manhattan
restaurants, and could soon make its way on to a menu near you.
