Divlji šaran

Divlji šaran

Cyprinus carpio (Linnaeus)

Wild Carp

Family Cyprinidae
Closed Season 01.04. - 31.05.
Minimum Size 40 cm

Description

Wild carp is a large freshwater fish from the Cyprinidae family with an elongated body covered in large scales. It has a massive head, protruding lower mouth, and four sensory barbels. Compared to farmed varieties, it has a more slender body and is more resilient. It is naturally distributed in Europe and western Asia, and has been spread almost worldwide through human activity.

Habitat

Inhabits still and slow-flowing waters of lowland areas, such as lakes, backwaters, and slow rivers. Prefers warm waters with rich vegetation and soft bottom. Very tolerant of low oxygen levels, elevated temperatures, and water turbidity.

Diet

Omnivorous, mainly feeding on bottom organisms including insect larvae, worms, mollusks, and crustaceans, as well as plant material such as algae and plant shoots. Juveniles feed on plankton, while adults occasionally consume fish fry and eggs.

🎣 Recommended Bait

  • Corn (boiled or fermented)
  • Boilies (sweet, fishy, or fruity)
  • Tiger nuts
  • Pellets
  • Worms (earthworms)
  • Larvae
  • Flavored dough

📅 Best Seasons

Spring (after closed season - June), Summer (peak activity), Early autumn (aggressive feeding)

🕐 Best Time of Day

Early morning (dawn - most active), Late afternoon, Dusk and first half of night

📍 Where to Fish

Look for it along reed edges, near submerged trees, and in areas with muddy bottom. Prefers quiet bays, backwaters, and sheltered areas. Often stays at depths of 2-4 meters, in summer in deeper cooler layers (up to 8m). Particularly active around feeding spots.

💡 Fishing Tips

Carp is very cautious and has an extremely developed sense of smell. Always use pre-baiting 1-2 days before fishing in the same spot. Hair rig with boilies is most effective for larger specimens. Fish completely quietly as carp feel vibrations. Best results are with stable atmospheric pressure, warm weather without wind, and after rain when water becomes slightly turbid.

📚 Sources

🎣 Fishing Sources