Largemouth bass and bluegills are considered environmental threats in Korea.

Non-native American largemouth bass and bluegill have permeated many Korean waters and have been labeled by the government as "enemies of the environment." They are well-hated by the carp anglers that make up the majority of Korean freshwater fishermen. Likewise in Japan. But they also have a hardcore following in both countries composed of Bassmaster-style lure anglers whose dedication to the largemouth bass is extreme and obsessive.

I like having them around, although I'm fully aware that as invasive species they do not belong in the local food chain. But as an American expatriate living abroad, they're a reminder of home. After pursuing all of the native species, catching some bass and bluegill is like meeting up with some good friends from the old days. It is technically illegal to release them after catching them (although many lure anglers do it anyway) and a couple times a year I go hunting for a mess of scrappy fighting bluegills. They are filleted and pan fried, and friends bearing cold beer stop over and we feast out in the courtyard as the sun goes down. Just like home.