Hockhockson Brook 5/3/11

[AndyS]

The difference between mirror and common carp is both genetic and visual - biologically they are similar. The mirror carp was the first mutation of common carp, owing to two alternative genes, the S allele and the N allele. The genetic term for a mirror carp is "ssnn" (all minor). Common carp have an even, regular scale pattern, whereas mirrors have irregular and patchy scaling, making many fish unique and possible to identify individual fish by sight, leading to most carp in the UK over 40 lb being nicknamed. This lack of scales is widely believed to have been bred in by monks in order to make the fish easier to prepare for the table.

Contrary to popular belief, Leather carp are not Mirror carp without scales; there is a distinct genetic difference. Leather carp are permitted a few scales; however, the dorsal row of scales is either absent or incomplete. Leathers also have reduced numbers of red blood cells, slowing growth rates.

[Wilson]

Here's one from central PA I caught a couple of years ago.

[surfrod]

very interesting catch... never know what hangs out below the falls.

every march there is a sucker run up that stream that is unbelievable and I never knew that many suckers even existed in monmouth county until I saw those runs on the Hock and Yellow

never caught a carp there but I never fished worms always fly or lures.

nice report and pics!