Presentation
The common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is a common fish of the Cyprinidae family in France. It has a long, rounded body, a single dorsal fin and four barbels on the upper jaw. Its color ranges from brown-green to darker green with lighter sides.
Carp can exceed 50 cm in length and weigh over 40 kg. There are three types of carp: the common carp with a body covered in small scales, the leather carp with a body largely devoid of scales, and the mirror carp with very large, irregularly scattered scales. Carp can live up to 15 years in the wild.
Carp are mainly found in calm waters with slow currents, in all types of water and in many rivers. Carp often enjoy turbid waters.
An omnivorous fish
Carp are omnivorous fish, feeding on worms, crustaceans, insects, plants and molluscs. They search the substrate with their protractile (forward-stretching) mouth and detect food with their barbels. Carp can spend much of their time feeding when water temperatures start to rise above 10 degrees. Below this temperature, they tend to live on their reserves.
Reproduction
Carp spawn in spring or early summer, depending on the region. Females can lay up to 2,500,000 eggs per kilogram. Spawning takes place in shallow waters amidst vegetation. Carp reach sexual maturity at around 3 to 4 years of age.
Carp fishing, an addictive passion
Carp fishing can be practised easily on most bodies of water. It's a fishery that requires patience and an understanding of the environment if you hope to catch a really nice fish. Carp can be sought using a variety of techniques, including feeder fishing, stalking and even lures.
Carp fishing requires specific equipment. Many carp anglers spend several days on the water to indulge their passion. Carp fishing can be practised day or night, but is subject to specific regulations depending on where you fish, so make sure you get the right information.
