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Grass Carp

Grass Carp

Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella), also known as white amur, are large members of the minnow family native to eastern Asia.

In Pennsylvania, only triploid (sterile) grass carp are legally permitted and must be obtained through a special permitting process from the PA Fish and Boat Commission.

Scientific Name: Ctenopharyngodon idella

Also known as white amur

Physical Characteristics:
  • These fish resemble large creek chubs but lack the spiny dorsal and anal fin rays and chin barbels found on common carp.
  • They possess specially developed pharyngeal bones that function like teeth to tear and grind aquatic plants.
  • Grass carp in Pennsylvania can reach weights of 25+ pounds and remain effective for 7-8 years.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Natural reproduction has been confirmed in some Great Lakes tributaries.

Key Locations

  • Wild populations have been documented in various Pennsylvania waters including the Ohio River system (Allegheny, Beaver counties), Susquehanna River drainage (Luzerne, Snyder counties), Lake Erie tributaries (Erie County), and other scattered locations.

Specific Spots

  • Prime locations include private ponds with permits, areas with overhanging vegetation dropping into water, and shallow weedy areas adjacent to deeper water.

Grass Carp FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Grass Carp in Pennsylvania?

Effective fly patterns include size 12-16 beadhead woolly buggers in multiple weights (heavy for deep/fast water, light for slow sinking, suspending for shallow), size 14-18 beadhead hares ear nymphs, size 18-22 smokejumper midges, and CDC caddis patterns.

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

The optimal fishing season is late spring through summer when water temperatures are 68-90°F and the fish are actively feeding.

How do you catch Grass Carp in Pennsylvania?

Approach extremely quietly, avoiding vibrations, shadows, and noise both above and below water. Cast 10-15 feet ahead of cruising fish and strip the fly slowly in front of them rather than directly at them.

What do Grass Carp eat?

Pennsylvania grass carp are primarily herbivorous, feeding almost exclusively on aquatic vegetation after reaching two inches in length. They prefer finer-leafed submerged vegetation like pondweeds, naiads, common elodea, coontail, muskgrass, and small floating plants like duckweed.

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Pennsylvania licenses and regulations

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