South African Fish Species: The Mirror (King) Carp

The Beautiful Freshwater Mirror Carp

The Mirror Carp are species of Carp that are normally associated with being found in European rivers and lakes but these fish were introduced into South Africa a long time a go. The Mirror Carp are also referred to as King Carp because of their shining mirror like scales that occur on the fishes body. The Mirror Carp are strong fighting fish that occur in similar habitats to the Common Carp. Biologically the Mirror or King Carp and the Common Carp are identical, they do differ in visual and genetic terms. The Mirror Carp is one of the first mutations of Common Carp. There is a theory that the Mirror Carp was bred in order to make the fish easier to prepare for eating as they have irregular and patchy scales. The King Carp is am prized angling target and can grow to very large sizes... The current world record for a Mirror Carp is just under 43 kilograms which was caught in France in 2010. The Mirror Carp is a delight to catch and can be fished for with the same baits you would target Common Carp, Yellowfish or Mudfish with.

How To Catch The Mirror Carp In South Africa

The Mirror (King Carp) is a well sought after angling fish species and there are numerous ways and techniques of catching these fish. The two best baits to use to catch the Mirror Carp are mealies (Corn) and earthworms. If there are Carp in the area where you are fishing you will know about it. Flavoured mealies are also very good baits to use as these fish can't resist them. Boilies, Dough, floaties and bread are also good baits. Good areas to fish for Carp are in steep drop offs and deeper areas close to shore with lots of cover. It is advisable, when you are fishing for Mirror Carp in South Africa, to set up a trace with two hooks, a feeder and a ball sinker - similar to that of a Common Carp trace. This is the preferred method and increasing your chance of catching these fish as the Carp will be attracted to whatever is on your feeder and then hopefully take your bait that is on a hook. It is also advisable to purchase some bait dips and put them on whatever is on your feeder (Mealie bomb is a great feeder) and your bait. The best dips in my opinion are honey, almond and banana, although other dips will also work.

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