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Grass Carp

Grass Carp

Grass Carp are large herbivorous fish that have established populations in Kentucky waters since their first documented arrival in 1974. These fish are highly sensitive to vibrations and can detect footsteps and boat movement, making them extremely wary.

Scientific Name: Ctenopharyngodon idella

Also known as white amur

Physical Characteristics:
  • These fish can grow exceptionally large - reaching up to 59 inches in length and 99+ pounds, with Kentucky's bowfishing state record at 72 pounds from Kentucky Lake.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found throughout the Mississippi, Tennessee, Cumberland, and Ohio rivers and many tributaries in Kentucky.

Key Locations

  • In Kentucky, they're found throughout the Mississippi, Tennessee, Cumberland, and Ohio rivers and many tributaries, with significant populations in Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley.
  • In Kentucky, focus efforts on Kentucky Lake, Lake Barkley, and connected river systems where populations are most established.

Specific Spots

  • Target shallow areas 6-36 inches deep when they cruise shorelines.
  • Look for tailing fish (best opportunity), feeding fish, or fish sunning near the surface.
  • Target areas with floating vegetation from wind or falling from overhanging trees, as this acts like natural chum.

Grass Carp FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Grass Carp in Kentucky?

Size 12-16 beadhead woolly buggers (black, brown, olive), size 14-18 beadhead hare's ear nymphs, size 18-22 midge patterns, size 12-14 CDC caddis patterns, cottonseed imitations, and small hoppers.

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

Spring through fall provides the best fishing, with water temperatures between 50-80°F being optimal. Avoid fishing during spawning periods from May through July when water temperatures reach 18-30°F.

How do you catch Grass Carp in Kentucky?

Lead fish by 10-15 feet and let flies sink naturally in their feeding path. Use small twitching motions to attract attention rather than aggressive retrieval. Never set the hook aggressively - instead, slowly lift the rod to 12 o'clock position and let the fish hook itself when it swims away.

What do Grass Carp eat?

Grass Carp are primarily herbivorous, consuming up to 100% of their body weight daily in aquatic vegetation, though they're actually omnivorous and will eat almost anything when the opportunity presents itself.

Where do Grass Carp live in Kentucky?

Found throughout the Mississippi, Tennessee, Cumberland, and Ohio rivers and many tributaries in Kentucky.

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Kentucky licenses and regulations

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