Crucian Carp | Fish Species Guide | Angling Direct

Crucian Carp

Crucian Carp

aka Carassius Carassius

Shaped similar to a traditional common carp, The crucian is a much smaller and deeper bodied variation of carp that, unlike common carp, lacks barbules. As a freshwater fish, crucian are distributed in stillwaters such as lakes, rivers and reservoirs in various countries in Asia and northern Europe but tend to hug margin spots with cover such as lily pads or overhanging shade. Crucian carp can also be noted to have very small scales covering the entire flank, with a distinct lateral line and are known for its buttery-gold colouring.

FactBuilt to survive the coldest of winters and hottest of summers as well as living amongst predators, crucian carp can change its body shape. By increasing its body depth to a disc shape, it reduces the risk of pike or zander being able to swallow it.

Stats

Habitat

Habitat

Shallow pools in rivers, overgrown or swampy ponds and lakes.

Bait

Bait

Sweetcorn, luncheon meat, casters and pellets. (Avoid maggots If the water holds lots of small fish).

Native or Invasive

Native or Invasive

Native

Where

Where

Throughout European freshwater, but rare in the UK and virtually non-existent in Scotland, Wales and Ireland.

Catch Experience Catch Experience

As shy biters, be sure to tread lightly around shallow areas where Crucians feed and hook them fast. Crucian carp, known to be shy fish, can be tricky to spot. As bottom feeders, they will be found covered in thick mud and silt. The most effective method is float fishing, requiring a pole or a running line with light tackles around the surface plants or at the bottom. Small poles float are also commonly used depending on the water and weather. Another setup would have a float rod with a small fixed spool reel with a 4-5lb line, followed by a size 16 hook would greatly be effective. As shy biters, keeping a calm environment is essential, and using a thin line, be delicate in the catch. Using the float baiting it with breadcrumbs or worms will lure them in. there is no need to strike hard. Once the bite is felt, quickly reel them out of the water smoothly. They will not put much of a fight; they will wriggle in and out of the water, but they will be easy to handle the most challenging part is getting them to bite; being patient is critical. To safely return them to the water, gently holding and removing the hook by hand, slowly twisting and turning it out of its mouth. It is not safe to keep them out of the water for too long or in cramped buckets. Giving them some time to rest will be great to calm them down before releasing them back into the water.

Video

Blog Highlight

Phil Spinks - Crucian Carp

Float fishing for crucian carp is by far my favourite way of fishing for them. Although on the bigger, lower stocked lakes, legering for them can be very effective, it doesn’t have the same appeal for me as watching a delicate little float lift up...

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