Find Your Next Spot
Silver carp
Hypophthalmichthys molitrix
Identification
Silvery, deep-bodied, and infamous for leaping several feet out of the water when startled by boat motors.
Where It's Found
An invasive species spreading through the Mississippi River basin and its tributaries, posing a real navigation hazard due to its jumping behavior.
Near Threatened (IUCN 3.1)
Fishing Notes
Like bighead carp, it filter-feeds and isn't typically caught on rod and reel — bowfishing is the primary method used against this invasive species.
Scientific Classification▾
Family
Xenocyprididae
Genus
Hypophthalmichthys
Order
Cypriniformes
Class
Actinopterygii
Phylum
Chordata
Kingdom
Animalia
Ready to go fishing?
Find a boat ramp near you and check state fishing regulations before you head out.
Photography sourced from Wikimedia Commons contributors.