Common Carp
Information about the Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio), a warm-water fish introduced to Ontario.
Species image (Illustration Credit: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)
What it looks like
- large, deep-bodied fish
- "whiskers" (barbels) beside mouth
- back and sides vary from silver to olive-green, brassy or grey
- yellowish belly
- orange-red lower fins
- partially scaled cheek and gill cover
- one dorsal spine
Size
- length: 30-75 centimetres (12-30 inches)
- weight: 0.2-3.5 kilograms (0.5-7 pounds)
- Ontario record: 17.4 kilograms (38.5 pounds)
Similar fish
Where it’s found
Species distribution map (modified from Mandrak and Crossman, 1992)
Range
- throughout the Great Lakes region from the upper St. Lawrence River to Lake Superior
- many inland lakes, reservoirs and rivers
- use Fish ON-Line, an interactive mapping tool, to find specific lakes and rivers
Habitat
- warm, shallow, weedy lakes and rivers
- bottoms and water from clear to murky
- urban areas and habitats unsuitable for other fish
Angling tips
- large, tough fish, capable of great speed and power
- prime fishing in early morning and late evening
- still fishing with natural bait works best
- place bait directly on the bottom
- easily caught from shore with rod and reel
Common baits
- doughballs (soft or hard, often homemade)
- liver paste and bread crumbs rolled into small balls
- large kernel corn, boiled potato
- earthworms
Updated: January 11, 2023
Published: July 18, 2014