Identification: Common carp are a long, deep bodied fish with large golden-brown scales in adults (silver in juveniles) with yellowish-orange caudal and anal fins. Common carp also have a long dorsal fin and serrated spines on their dorsal and anal fins. Common carp have two sets of barbels in the corners of their subterminal mouth. Average size of common carp in West Virginia can be from 4 to 10 pounds but can often exceed 20 pounds.
Habitat: Common carp originated from Eurasia and were introduced into North America in 1831 and have since widely expanded their distribution. They can survive a wide range of freshwater conditions but prefer the muddy vegetated pools in small to large lakes and rivers.
Other: Anglers often confuse common carp with smallmouth buffalo ( Ictiobus bubalus ). Common carp have a much browner/duller coloration compared to the grey iridescence of smallmouth buffalo . Smallmouth buffalo also have a distinct all-black eye. Also, common carp have noticeable barbels (long fleshy filaments that some anglers may call âwhiskersâ on catfish) on their upper jaw which buffalo do not have.
Habitat & Range
Common carp originated from Eurasia and were introduced into North America in 1831 and have since widely expanded their distribution. They can survive a wide range of freshwater conditions but prefer the muddy vegetated pools in small to large lakes and rivers.
Status, Trends & Threats
Common carp tend to root up aquatic vegetation, causing a lack of natural habitat and increased turbidity. Whether rooting up vegetation or eating fish eggs, carp tend to negatively impact native species populations.
License & Regulations
A valid West Virginia fishing license is required for anglers age 15 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-residents, and short-term durations. A West Virginia Trout Stamp is required to fish for or possess trout in designated trout waters. Purchase online through the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources website or at authorized license retailers throughout the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Identification
Common carp are a long, deep bodied fish with large golden-brown scales in adults (silver in juveniles) with yellowish-orange caudal and anal fins. Common carp also have a long dorsal fin and serrated spines on their dorsal and anal fins. Common carp have two sets of barbels in the corners of their subterminal mouth. Average size of common carp in West Virginia can be from 4 to 10 pounds but can often exceed 20 pounds.
Habitat
Common carp originated from Eurasia and were introduced into North America in 1831 and have since widely expanded their distribution. They can survive a wide range of freshwater conditions but prefer the muddy vegetated pools in small to large lakes and rivers.
Interesting Facts
Common Carp are one of the largest, hardest fighting fish in West Virginia waters. They can be caught on topwater with bread, on the bottom with dough baits or advertised âcarp baitsâ and can even be caught on the fly with insect or crawfish imitations. When bowfishing carp, carcasses must be taken back with the angler to avoid wasteful dumping. Common carp have two variants, known as mirror (large scales dispersed randomly on body), and leather (no scales at all) that exist in small numbers in wild populations. The West Virginia length record for Common Carp is 41.0 inches (Charles J. Cook, 1988) and the weight record is 47.0 pounds (Gary Johnson, 1998).
Regulations
West Virginia fishing regulations apply to Common Carp. A valid West Virginia fishing license is required for anglers 15 and older. Bag and size limits vary by species and water body. Some waters have special regulations including catch-and-release only, artificial lures only, or specific size limits. Check the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Fishing Regulations for current rules specific to your fishing location.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | Fishing | License | License & Fees | A valid West Virginia fishing license is required for anglers age 15 and older. Licenses are available for residents, no | Link |
