Juvenile Asian Carp Identification

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources developed a video to assist anglers and the general public in identifying juvenile Asian Carp. The video was produced in collaboration with Michigan Out of Doors Television. Many people don't realize that juvenile Asian Carp pose a threat to the state's Great Lakes. Juvenile Asian Carp can be confused with common baitfish – such as Gizzard Shad, Emerald Shiner, Spottail Shiner or Golden Shiner. Because bait is often transported across state lines, including from areas with breeding populations of Asian Carp, it would be easy for juvenile Asian Carp to make their way into the bait supply without anyone realizing it. This video showcases five characteristics viewers can use to distinguish between juvenile Asian Carp (Bighead and Silver) and common baitfish. These characteristics include color, scales, eyes, mouths and keels.