Carp come in several distinct varieties, each with its own look, behaviour, and challenges. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right tactics on the bank and appreciate the fish you catch even more. This guide breaks down the most common carp species found across the UK and Europe.
🟤 1. Common Carp
The classic carp most anglers picture.
How to Identify
- Fully scaled from head to tail
- Golden‑brown body
- Deep, powerful shape
- Large, even scales
Behaviour
- Strong fighters
- Often patrol margins
- Respond well to boilies, corn, and pellets
Where You’ll Find Them
- Day‑ticket lakes
- Rivers
- Canals
- Syndicates
🟡 2. Mirror Carp
A favourite among anglers for their unique scale patterns.
How to Identify
- Irregular, patchy scales
- Sometimes almost scale‑less
- Wide variety of patterns (linear, plated, scattered)
Behaviour
- Often feed confidently
- Can grow very large
- Great for photography thanks to their individuality
Where You’ll Find Them
- Most UK stillwaters
- Stocked fisheries
- Carp‑focused venues
đźź 3. Leather Carp
A rare and special catch.
How to Identify
- Almost completely smooth skin
- Very few or no scales
- Soft, leathery appearance
Behaviour
- Less common than mirrors
- Often slower growing
- Highly prized by specimen hunters
Where You’ll Find Them
- Select lakes and syndicates
- Older, established waters
🟢 4. Ghost Carp
A striking, ornamental variety.
How to Identify
- Pale, white, or silver body
- Sometimes orange or koi‑like markings
- Dark eyes that stand out
Behaviour
- Often more visible in clear water
- Can be spooky and fast
- Great fighters
Where You’ll Find Them
- Mixed fisheries
- Lakes with ornamental stock
🔵 5. Grass Carp
Long, torpedo‑shaped and powerful.
How to Identify
- Long, slender body
- Grey‑green colouring
- Small head and mouth
- No barbels
Behaviour
- Extremely strong fighters
- Often feed on vegetation
- Can be tricky to tempt
Where You’ll Find Them
- Select UK lakes
- Warmer waters
- Often stocked for weed control
⚪ 6. Koi Carp
Beautiful, colourful, and occasionally found in open waters.
How to Identify
- Bright colours: orange, white, black, red, yellow
- Ornamental patterns
- Similar shape to common carp
Behaviour
- Often shy in large lakes
- More common in garden ponds
- A rare and exciting catch in the wild
Where You’ll Find Them
- Ponds
- Some mixed fisheries
- Occasional escapees in lakes
🎣 Which Carp Is Easiest for Beginners?
- Common carp and mirror carp are the most common and beginner‑friendly.
- They feed confidently, grow large, and can be caught on simple rigs and baits.