Where should I be targeting snakehead in the reading pa area

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

**Hotspots around Reading, PA**

In the Reading area, target the Schuylkill River and connected waterways (Tulpehocken Creek, Manatawny Creek) where warm backwaters, weed edges, and structure create ambush points for snakeheads. Focus on slow, shallow pockets and deeper seams along weedlines and structure. In mid fall, look for sun-facing embayments where water temps hold a bit warmer and fish are actively feeding before winter.

**Where to look**
- Slow bends, backwaters, and near weed edges along the river
- Drop-offs and sunny pockets between lush vegetation and structure
- Bridges, pilings, and eddies where baitfish stack up

**Lures & techniques (mid fall)**
- Big paddle-tail swimbaits (around 4–6 inches) rigged on a sturdy hook or weighted swimbait head. Try slow-rolling along weed lines and drop-offs; pause-and-pulse retrieves trigger more hits.
  - Good options: [TRUSCEND Easy Catch Swimmax](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GP1DL4K?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
  - [TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout Paddle Tail](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08W2Z6VT8?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Topwater or buzzing lures at dawn/dusk can grab aggressive strikes as water cools. Consider floating/topwater options:
  - [TRUSCEND Top Water Lures](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08T1FKL9Z?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Jigs and soft plastics for heavy cover; switch to a slower, direct retrieve when you see fish on electronics.

**Rig & gear (PA) for snakeheads**
- Rods/Reels: 7'6"–8' Heavy or Extra-Heavy with a smooth drag.
- Line: 50–65 lb braided line; leader 20–30 lb fluorocarbon for abrasion resistance around structure
- Reels: 6.3:1–7.1:1 ratio so you can punch through cover and control the lure

**Notes & regulations**
- In Pennsylvania, snakeheads are an invasive species; refer to the PFBC regulations for handling and possession. It’s typically best practice to harvest promptly and do not release. Check PFBC for the latest rules.

**More gear to check out**
- [HALYXS 7 pcs Soft Minnow Lures](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FTTBYPFH?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [TRUSCEND Jigs & Lures for Bass/Trout](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08W2Z6VT8?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

Stay patient, stay mobile, and adjust to the current flow and temps. Mid fall can be dynamic—mobility and a good map app will pay off. Good luck and tight lines!

🎣 Schuylkill River, Reading, Pennsylvania, USA

Pike & Musky Questions

More Questions

What is the best way to catch grouper?

Most productive place to catch catfish in California?

Where do I find big pike in Sweden during the spring?

How to start fishing?

What is a simple setup for catching grouper on a dock?

What are the first knots a beginner should learn?

Can you show me the latest videos on creek fishing adventures?

What is this code doing: imgs_list = [[np.random.randint(0, 255, (H, W, 3), dtype=np.uint8)]]?