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Grass Carp

Grass Carp

Grass carp in Colorado are robust, thick-bodied fish with large eyes and blunt heads ending in terminal mouths lacking barbels. They possess large cycloid dark scales that give a cross-hatched appearance.

Native to southeastern Russia and northwestern China, grass carp were brought to Arkansas in the 1960s for aquatic plant control and are now widely stocked throughout Colorado.

Scientific Name: Ctenopharyngodon idella

Physical Characteristics:
  • Adults can weigh up to 70 pounds and reach lengths up to 150 cm, making them among the largest freshwater fish available in Colorado waters.
  • Robust, thick-bodied fish with large eyes and blunt heads ending in terminal mouths lacking barbels.
  • They possess large cycloid dark scales that give a cross-hatched appearance.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They prefer quiet waters including lakes, ponds, pools, and backwaters of large rivers.
  • They're currently present in Colorado and widely stocked throughout Colorado.

Key Locations

  • Target murky waters in the Denver metro area including ponds at Flatirons Mall, Cow Lake in Arvada, and lakes near Echters Nursery.

Specific Spots

  • Look for grass carp cruising near banks, especially around cattail edges and areas where grass blows into water from mowing.
  • Target quiet backwaters, shallow bays, and vegetated areas where grass carp forage.

Grass Carp FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Bread, bagel chunks, pineapple, or fruity boilies. Surface fishing with floating baits like bread works during warm summer evenings.

What flies work for Grass Carp in Colorado?

Essential fly patterns include size 16 black hares ear nymphs, wooly buggers (#12-16), pheasant tail nymphs (#14-18), smokejumper midges (#18-22), and CDC caddis patterns (#12-14). Cotton seed patterns (#12-16) and parachute hoppers (#12-16) work well for surface feeding.

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

The best fishing periods for grass carp in Colorado are late April through September, with late April being particularly productive. Avoid fishing during spawning periods (May-July).

How do you catch Grass Carp in Colorado?

Presentation is critical - lead the fish by 10-15 feet, slowly strip the fly in front of their face, and avoid setting the hook aggressively. Instead, slowly lift the rod to noon and let the fish hook itself. Walk silently like a great blue heron to avoid spooking fish through vibrations.

What do Grass Carp eat?

Grass carp are primarily herbivorous, feeding on various species of macrophytes, though they're omnivorous and will consume insects, crustaceans, and small fish when available.

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