Name: Mirror Carp
Also known as: Scaleys, Mirrors, Leathers, Leather carp
Scientific name: Cyprinus carpio
MIRROR CARP Description
The difference between this type of Carp and their wild ancestors, the Common Carp, is both genetic and visual. The Mirror Carp was the first genetic mutation of Common Carp. Common Carp have a regular scale pattern with even-sized scales on the body, whereas mirrors have irregular often erratic scaling which can range from the wrist of the tail, along the dorsal line to even having no scales at all, making many fish unique and easy to identify individual fish by sight. This means that most Mirror Carp in the UK over 40 lb are now being named by Carp anglers due to their distinctive-looking mirror scale.
Average MIRROR CARP size
The average you will catch really depends on the water you are fishing, the average could range from 5lb to double figures depending on the stock of fish in the waters. The current record mirror varies depending on the location. The current British record is held by Wayne Mansford at 75lb 2oz from Holme Fenn Fisheries and the North America record fish comes in at 75lb. The current overall world record comes in at 105lb 14oz from Euro Aqua in Hungary.
Where to catch Mirror Carp
Carp originates from Poland, however, These species are now found on every continent in fresh and brackish waters but in reduced numbers. The place we would recommend you travelling to catch these scaley beasts is River Ebro Spain. Other well-known areas to catch Mirror Carp include France, Croatia and South Africa. There are many UK waters stocked with mirror Carp the most famous being Linear Lakes and Redmire Pool.
Mirror Carp Fishing methods
By a fair way the most popular method used for Carp fishing is ledgering with one of the thousands of different flavoured boilies on the market, using one of the hundreds of different rigs designed for this exact purpose. There is also no difference in bait and tactics when targeting Common and Mirror Carp. Other more natural ways to fish for them include float fishing with bait like worms, sweetcorn and bread along with fishing on the surface when the carp are in the upper layers using floating bait like bread crust and dog biscuits as these are all food sources for the Carp.
Contact us
Have you ever been Carp fishing abroad? Is this a favourite species of yours that you just love to fish for? If it is, and you’re ready to experience true Carp Fishing, contact our expert team on 01603 407596 or email peter@sportquestholidays.com. They will be happy to answer any questions you have
Alternatively, visit our Carp fishing trips page containing all our fishing holidays trips and vacations. You can also find our Carp fishing videos here on our Youtube Channel.
Tight Lines,
Paul Stevens
