Angler Alex Veenstra from Hanson, Idaho caught the new state record for common carp. Photo: Alex Veenstra

IDAHO — A new state record for common carp was set on Dec. 20 when angler Alex Veenstra from Hanse, Idaho caught a 30 pound 4-ounce fish using hook and line on the Snake River above Upper Salmon Dam.

Veenstra caught the 36-inch “mirror” carp using a crank bait. The fish bested the previous record by 10 pounds, which was caught in September 2020 in Swan Falls Reservoir.

Mirror carp are a typically rare variant of the common carp but have been found in greater numbers above Shoshone Falls. The carp got its name from the large scales which are said to resemble mirrors. Mirror carp are common in Europe where they have been known to grow in excess of 60 pounds. Carp are an introduced species in Idaho.

 

Lindsay is a contributing reporter covering a little bit of everything; with an interest in local policies and politics, the environment and amplifying community voices. She's curious about uncovering the "whys" of our region and aims to inform the community about the issues that matter. In her free time, you can find her snowboarding, cooking or planning the next surf trip.