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Grass Carp

Grass Carp

Grass Carp are large members of the minnow family originally from Eastern Asia that were introduced to Arizona in the 1970s and have been documented in the state since 1970.

These sterile triploid fish are intentionally stocked by water management agencies like Salt River Project and Central Arizona Project as biological control agents for aquatic vegetation.

Scientific Name: Ctenopharyngodon idella

Also known as White Amur

Physical Characteristics:
  • Large fish that can reach impressive sizes of 4+ feet in length and weigh 20-30+ pounds in Arizona waters.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They're found in 12 different hydrologic units across Arizona, including canal systems, urban lakes and ponds.

Key Locations

  • Salt River Project canals, Central Arizona Project waterways, urban lakes and ponds throughout the Phoenix metro area, Agua Fria, Lower Salt, Middle Gila, and Verde River systems, various canals accessible from Scottsdale and throughout the greater Phoenix area, Tierra Verde Lake in Litchfield Park.

Specific Spots

  • In Arizona's canal systems, they typically cruise in schools of 4-12 fish along concrete banks and under bridges.
  • The Phoenix area canal system offers excellent opportunities, particularly along the Salt River Project waterways where these fish cruise cement banks and gather under bridges.
  • In urban ponds and lakes throughout the Phoenix metro, look for fish cruising shallow areas during warmer parts of the day.

Grass Carp FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Grass Carp in Arizona?

Dr.y flies - foam spiders, cicada patterns, and ant imitations work exceptionally well. Specific productive flies include black foam spiders and foam bug dry flies.

When is the best time to fish for Grass Carp in Arizona?

Warmer months when water temperatures reach 68°F or higher are most productive. Spawning occurs when water temperatures reach above 59°F, typically triggered by rising water levels after heavy rains - during these periods (generally spring months), fishing should be avoided as the fish become focused on reproduction...

How do you catch Grass Carp in Arizona?

Fly fishing is highly effective using dry flies presented on the surface. When sight fishing, cast 15+ feet ahead of moving fish and use subtle movements to mimic floating vegetation. Target areas where natural vegetation falls into the water or under bridges where debris collects.

What do Grass Carp eat?

Primarily herbivorous, consuming up to 40% of their body weight daily in aquatic vegetation, though they will opportunistically take insects, small invertebrates, and surface debris.

Where do Grass Carp live in Arizona?

They're found in 12 different hydrologic units across Arizona, including canal systems, urban lakes and ponds.

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