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Grass Carp

Grass Carp

Grass Carp are one of the largest members of the minnow family and among four Asian carp species present in Arkansas. These invasive fish are scattered across the state from manmade impoundments to large rivers.

Originally imported to the Fish Farming Experimental Station in Stuttgart, Arkansas in 1963 from Malaysia for aquatic vegetation control, they quickly escaped and established wild populations. By 1976, twenty-five tons were commercially harvested statewide.

Scientific Name: Ctenopharyngodon idella

Also known as white amur

Physical Characteristics:
  • Distinguished by their elongate, stout bodies with moderately large scales, blunt heads without barbels, terminal mouths, and silvery pale gray to olive coloration with prominent dark-edged scales creating a cross-hatched pattern.
  • They typically reach 65-80 pounds, with Arkansas's largest recorded at 58 pounds 14 ounces.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Scattered across Arkansas from manmade impoundments to large rivers.
  • They inhabit quiet freshwater habitats like lakes, ponds, pools, and backwaters of large rivers, tolerating low salinity levels.

Key Locations

  • Arkansas, Mississippi, Red, St.
  • Francis, and White rivers and their tributaries.
  • Arkansas's largest recorded specimen came from Lake Ouachita in 2002.

Specific Spots

  • Present baits near overhanging terrestrial vegetation where they often feed with their heads out of water.
  • Target backwaters, lakes, and impoundments statewide.

Grass Carp FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Grass Carp in Arkansas?

Dough balls are most effective, as their plant-based diet makes them responsive to bread or dough ball baits. They may occasionally take earthworms or other natural baits.

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

The best fishing occurs during warmer months when water temperatures reach above 59°F and they're most active. Avoid fishing during spawning periods (April-July when water temperatures exceed 59°F and after heavy rains cause water level rises).

How do you catch Grass Carp in Arkansas?

Still fishing is the most effective technique. Fly fishing is becoming increasingly popular. Bow fishing is also legal and effective, particularly since they often cruise visibly near the surface.

What do Grass Carp eat?

These prodigious feeders consume up to three times their body weight daily in plant material, preferring soft, submerged aquatic vegetation but will eat terrestrial plants, organic detritus, insects, and invertebrates when vegetation is scarce.

Where do Grass Carp live in Arkansas?

Scattered across Arkansas from manmade impoundments to large rivers. They inhabit quiet freshwater habitats like lakes, ponds, pools, and backwaters of large rivers, tolerating low salinity levels.

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