Scientific Name
Cyprinus carpio
Other Names
German carp, European carp, Buglemouth bass, or Carp
Description
Common carp are heavy-bodied minnows with barbels on either side of the upper jaw. Typically, they are orange, but their color varies from olive green, brassy green or yellow, golden brown, or even gray on top with yellowish-white on the belly. Carp measuring 12 to 25 inches in length and weighing 5 to 25 pounds are common. Common carp can weigh over 75 pounds and reach lengths of 48 inches. Carp may also live in excess of 47 years in ponds. In the wild, their lifespan usually does not exceed 20 years.
Habits and Habitat
Carp feed on the bottom for plant and animal material. Carp live in a variety of habitats from deep streams to marshes. Common carp are native to temperate portions of Europe and Asia. They were first introduced into North America in the late 1880s. Spawning occurs in shallow, weedy areas in the spring with water temperatures between 62ºF and 76ºF. Though common carp have historically been considered a nuisance, a growing number of anglers in the United States have developed an interest in carp as a sportfish.
State Record
The Mississippi Rod and Reel record is 74 pounds, caught in 1963 at Pelahatchie Lake by Curtis Wade. This is also the largest carp caught on hook and line in the U.S.
Fishing Fact
Carp can be caught using a variety of baits from pet food to dough-balls and canned corn. Carp are very finicky, hard-to-fool fish that put up a strong fight. Carp are also targeted by bowfishers.