Why Remove Triploid Grass Carp from Candlewood Lake and Squantz Pond?

Sterile Triploid Grass Carp were stocked into Candlewood Lake in 2015 and 2017 to control invasive Eurasian Watermilfoil. However, during 2022, the coverage of all submerged aquatic vegetation in Candlewood Lake dramatically declined to the point that it was largely absent from the lake. Submerged aquatic vegetation is an important habitat that supports healthy fisheries and water quality. It is the position of the DEEP Fisheries Division that active removal of grass carp from the lake is necessary for the submerged aquatic plant community in Candlewood Lake to recover to desirable levels in a timeframe that minimizes adverse effects to fisheries resources and lake stakeholders. Relying on natural mortality alone, it could take upwards of 20 years for the carp population to decline to levels that allow for the recovery of the aquatic plant community. It is the position of the Fisheries Division that such an extended timeframe is unacceptable as it would negatively impact fisheries resources and lake stakeholders. Consequently, the direct removal of grass carp from Candlewood Lake is necessary.

In May 2023, CT DEEP Fisheries staff conducted a pilot Triploid Grass Carp removal program over the course of 3 days, using a combination of boat-based electrofishing and large mesh gill nets. During the 3-day pilot program, a total of 118 grass carp were removed from Candlewood Lake. The estimated population of Grass Carp remaining in the lake ranges from 1,500-3,800 fish. To restore a healthy level of submerged aquatic vegetation, it is necessary to remove additional Grass Carp.

The CT DEEP Fisheries Division is enlisting the help of anglers to remove Triploid Grass Carp from Candlewood Lake and Squantz Pond (which is connected to Candlewood Lake and stocked with Grass Carp in 2017). Removal via angling represents a unique opportunity for anglers to target Grass Carp and directly support science-based fisheries management. Bow and Arrow fishing, while currently legal for Common Carp on the lake, is not currently an allowed method for Triploid Grass Carp. Alternative methods like bow and arrow fishing may be added to this project at a later date if target removal goals are not met. If you would like to participate, please use the following links to register as a volunteer angler, report your catch, or view the submitted catches to-date on our public dashboard.

Register as a Volunteer Angler

Tactics and Tips to Catch Grass Carp

Report Your Catch

View the Dashboard

 

     

Please contact the Fisheries Division with any questions.
Phone: 860-424-FISH (3474)
E-mail: deep.inland.fisheries@ct.gov

Content last updated in July 2023.