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Grass Carp

Grass Carp

Grass Carp are large non-native herbivorous fish scattered throughout South Carolina waters from the Pee Dee to the Savannah River, primarily in the Coastal Plain.

These fish are easily spooked due to their large lateral lines that detect vibrations and movement, making them challenging targets for anglers.

Scientific Name: Ctenopharyngodon idella

Also known as White Amur

Physical Characteristics:
  • Torpedo-shaped fish have thick, mullet-like bodies with large dark-edged scales, ranging from silvery to olive coloration with white heads and terminal mouths lacking barbels.
  • They average 2-3 feet in length and 3-15 pounds, though individuals can exceed 40 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Scattered throughout South Carolina waters from the Pee Dee to the Savannah River, primarily in the Coastal Plain.

Key Locations

  • Lake Murray (regularly stocked for vegetation control), Santee-Cooper Lakes, Congaree River, Pee Dee to the Savannah River.

Specific Spots

  • Target the weedy flats and coves of Santee-Cooper Lakes, and the Congaree River shallows.
  • Prefer quiet or slow-moving waters in ponds, lakes, pools, and backwaters of large rivers.
  • Fish cruise shorelines and shallow areas during prime times.

Grass Carp FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Fresh grass clippings, corn, dough balls, bread (bagel pieces hold better), lettuce, cabbage leaves, and fruity baits like pineapple, plums, and berries.

What flies work for Grass Carp in South Carolina?

BH Woolly Buggers (#12-16), BH Hare's Ears (#14-18), Smokejumper Midges (#18-22), CDC Caddis (#12-14), and Cottonseed patterns (#12-16).

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

Most productive during warm seasons from spring through early fall when fish are active and feeding aggressively near the surface.

How do you catch Grass Carp in South Carolina?

Sight fishing in clear shallows, still fishing with natural baits, freelining without weight, chumming feeding areas, slowly strip flies in front of feeding fish, avoid setting the hook hard - slowly lift the rod and let fish hook themselves.

What do Grass Carp eat?

Young fish consume small invertebrates and microcrustaceans, but adults become predominantly herbivorous, feeding voraciously on aquatic plants and consuming many pounds of vegetation daily.

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