Silver Carp
Silver Carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) are large invasive filter-feeding fish that pose a significant threat to Minnesota's aquatic ecosystems.
Scientific Name: Hypophthalmichthys molitrix
- Individuals caught in Minnesota average 33 inches and 18 pounds, though they can grow up to 50 inches and 90 pounds.
- They're silver in color with a greenish back, have tiny scales on their body but no scales on their heads, and feature low-set eyes below an upturned, toothless mouth with a distinctive keel extending before and behind the pelvic fins.
Fishing in Minnesota
Mississippi River
Sauk River
Rum River
Lake Minnetonka
Mille Lacs Lake
Crow River
Snake River
Little Rock Lake
Julia Lake
Long Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- They prefer open areas of slow-flowing or standing waters, occupying the upper and middle water column layers.
- They avoid main-channel habitat, instead favoring backwaters, side channels, tributary streams, and areas behind wing dikes where water pools.
Key Locations
- Focus efforts in the Mississippi and St.
- Croix rivers where documented captures have occurred.
- Pool 2 near Cottage Grove, Pool 5A near Winona, and Pool 6 near Trempealeau represent areas of known activity.
Specific Spots
- Silver Carp prefer slow-flowing portions of rivers, backwaters, side channels, and areas behind wing dikes where water pools.
- They occupy the upper and middle water column layers.
Silver Carp FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
When is the best time to fish for Silver Carp in Minnesota?
Spring and fall periods show increased Silver Carp congregations and movement, making these seasons most productive for potential encounters. However, avoid targeting during spawning season (May-September when water temperatures exceed 62.5°F) as fish will be focused on reproduction.
How do you catch Silver Carp in Minnesota?
Since they're filter feeders straining microscopic plankton, snagging or netting methods would be more effective than conventional angling.
What do Silver Carp eat?
Silver Carp are pure filter feeders that consume phytoplankton as adults, while juveniles eat both phytoplankton and zooplankton. They compete directly with native mussels, larval fishes, and paddlefish for plankton resources.
Where do Silver Carp live in Minnesota?
They prefer open areas of slow-flowing or standing waters, occupying the upper and middle water column layers. They avoid main-channel habitat, instead favoring backwaters, side channels, tributary streams, and areas behind wing dikes where water pools.
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