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Grass Carp

Grass Carp

Grass Carp are large herbivorous fish that have been introduced to North Carolina waters primarily for aquatic vegetation control. These impressive fish can reach 2-4 feet in length and weigh 15-40 pounds on average, with some specimens exceeding 60 pounds.

Scientific Name: Ctenopharyngodon idella

Also known as White Amur

Physical Characteristics:
  • Torpedo-shaped bodies with large olive to silver scales forming a cross-hatch pattern, and lack the barbels found on Common Carp.
  • Can reach 2-4 feet in length and weigh 15-40 pounds on average, with some specimens exceeding 60 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found in many lakes and ponds across the state where they've been stocked for vegetation management.

Key Locations

  • Many lakes and ponds across the state where they've been stocked for vegetation management, including waters in the Catawba chain around Charlotte such as Lake Norman, Lake Wylie, Mountain Island Reservoir, and Lookout Shoals Lake.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on locations with floating grass or vegetation where these 'cattle with fins' commonly graze, shallow areas, areas with aquatic vegetation.

Grass Carp FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Fresh grass clippings, corn, dough balls, bread, lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green beans, and vanilla-scented baits.

What flies work for Grass Carp in North Carolina?

Beadhead woolly buggers (#12-16), beadhead hare's ears (#14-18), smokejumper midges (#18-22), CDC caddis (#12-14), and parachute hoppers (#12-16). Vary fly weights from heavy to suspend just under the surface.

How do you catch Grass Carp in North Carolina?

When they take the bait, don't set the hook hard; instead, slowly lift the rod to allow the fish to hook itself. Target murky waters where you can get closer, look for fish tailing in shallow areas.

What do Grass Carp eat?

Primarily herbivorous, feeding on aquatic vegetation like hydrilla, southern naiad, duckweed, and various pondweeds, though they will consume some invertebrates and even fish feed when available.

Where do Grass Carp live in North Carolina?

Found in many lakes and ponds across the state where they've been stocked for vegetation management.

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