Silver Carp
Silver Carp are large, invasive Asian fish now established in Kansas waters, particularly in the Kansas River system below Bowersock Dam in Lawrence.
Scientific Name: Hypophthalmichthys molitrix
- Deep-bodied, laterally compressed fish are distinctive with their silvery coloration (greenish on back fading to silver on belly), scaleless heads, tiny body scales, and downward-pointing eyes positioned far forward on the head.
- They possess large, toothless mouths with upturned lower jaws and keels extending from the anal fin to the gill base.
- Silver carp commonly reach 20 pounds and 3 feet in length, with the largest specimens exceeding 60 pounds.
Fishing in Kansas
Neosho River
Melvern Lake
Verdigris River
Council Grove Lake
Marais des Cygnes River
Lyon County State Lake
John Redmond Reservoir
Pomona Lake
Chase County State Lake
Toronto Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- In Kansas, they're primarily found in the lower Kansas River between the Bowersock Dam in Lawrence and the Kansas City area, with populations also present in connecting tributaries like the Big Blue, Wakarusa, and Missouri rivers.
- Kansas populations appear to be resident fish that don't migrate extensively, confined between dam barriers.
Key Locations
- Lower Kansas River between Lawrence and Kansas City, particularly in backwater areas, tributary mouths, and slow-flowing sections near Johnson, Leavenworth, and Wyandotte counties.
- Kansas River system below Bowersock Dam in Lawrence.
- Connecting tributaries like the Big Blue, Wakarusa, and Missouri rivers.
Specific Spots
- They prefer slow-flowing or standing water areas, backwaters, tributary mouths, and areas behind wing dikes, avoiding main channel habitats.
Silver Carp FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Silver Carp in Kansas?
Small flies or tiny lures that might accidentally be inhaled during their filter feeding. Very small baits like bread balls, small pieces of corn, or specialized carp baits fished on the bottom.
When is the best time to fish for Silver Carp in Kansas?
Target them during cooler months when water temperatures are between 50-66°F. Avoid fishing during spawning periods in spring and early summer when water levels rise, as fish will be focused on reproduction.
How do you catch Silver Carp in Kansas?
Traditional angling methods are largely ineffective. Bow fishing and snagging are the most effective methods, particularly when fish are jumping or visible near the surface. For conventional angling, try small flies or tiny lures that might accidentally be inhaled during their filter feeding.
What do Silver Carp eat?
These filter-feeding fish consume massive quantities of phytoplankton and zooplankton.
Where do Silver Carp live in Kansas?
In Kansas, they're primarily found in the lower Kansas River between the Bowersock Dam in Lawrence and the Kansas City area, with populations also present in connecting tributaries like the Big Blue, Wakarusa, and Missouri rivers.
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