Carp
Carp (Cyprinus carpio)
  Features: There are three varieties of Carp in Ireland. These are the fully scaled Common Carp, the Mirror Carp, which have relatively few scales and a smooth body surface and the third is the Leather Carp which are totally scaleless and also very rare.
Spawning: In Ireland, carp only spawn sporadically and require a water temperature of between 20 - 22 C over a period of three or so weeks to pre-condition their eggs. They are sexually mature at 3 years. Egg size is 1 - 1.5 mm.
Fecundity: The average adult carp produces approximately 250,00 eggs/kg.
Longevity (age): Carp can live for up to 50 years.
Diet: They are mainly benthic feeders, feeding on larval insects , chironomids and other bottom dwelling organisms.
Best Angling Methods: Float fishing with small wagglers or float controllers; ledgering with bomb or swimfeeder.
  Best Baits: Maggots, sweetcorn, bread, pastes, worms and a range of flavoured boillies with an extensive range of groundbaits and additives.
  Specimen Weight: 5.4 kg (12lbs)
     
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