Common Carp — US fishing guide
Cyprinus carpio
Cyprinidae
Svenska: Karp
Common Carp is one of North America's most sought-after freshwater game fish, found across nationwide. Below is where it lives, when it bites and how to catch it — plus the top US lakes where it has been recorded.
At a glance
Typical habitat
Shallow warm water, muddy bottoms
Active times
Daytime
Best season
Warm months, shallow water
US range
Nationwide
How to catch Common Carp
Boilies, corn, bread on surface; growing sport fishing interest in US
Lake-by-lake occurrence data for Common Carp is being compiled from GBIF and will appear here soon. In the meantime, explore US lakes by state.
Frequently asked questions
Where do you find Common Carp?
Common Carp typically holds around shallow warm water, muddy bottoms. In the US it is common across nationwide.
When is the best time to catch Common Carp?
Common Carp is most active daytime, with the best fishing warm months, shallow water.
What is the best way to fish for Common Carp?
Boilies, corn, bread on surface; growing sport fishing interest in US