CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – The Iowa DNR says local fishermen have likely seen more invasive carp this year.

According to the DNR, they pose a problem because they disrupt local ecosystems by displacing native fish.

The species, commonly known as Asian carp, has been widespread in the Mississippi for years, but anglers are increasingly finding them here in eastern Iowa.

One of the biggest problems with Asian carp is that they reproduce and grow faster than native fish.

Another problem is that there is no easy way for the DNR to kill invasive fish in rivers without harming other species.

Local angler Thomas Stull says he has seen many more invasive carp in the Cedar and Iowa Rivers than in previous years.

The Iowa DNR agrees with Stull’s observation.

“In years with high water levels, which was this year, they move. And that’s why we’re seeing larger amounts entering our tributaries,” said Kim Bogenschutz, program coordinator for aquatic invasive species.

The higher populations of Asian carp mean that the zander and catfish that most anglers want are being crowded out by competition.

“They simply take over the waterways to displace other fish,” Bogenschutz said.

Asian carp are also known as flying carp due to their ability to jump out of the water, which presents another challenge for local fishermen.

“The problem is that people are going through with their boats and the fish themselves are not fast, but they are jumping out of the water and the boaters are going fast,” Stull said.

Another problem is that many fishermen do not know what to do when they catch invasive carp.

They have bones and are difficult to eat, but many fishermen still do not want to release them.

“You can’t just leave the fish on the bank. That’s illegal and is considered wanton waste. You can be punished for that and besides, we just don’t want smelly fish in our beautiful lakes,” said Bogenschutz.

However, Stull believes that there are not enough measures in place to control Asian carp and that there is not enough guidance at common fishing spots.

“There are no disposal sites here, there are no signs for Asian carp saying not to release them or report them to the DNR,” Stull said. “They didn’t notice it fast enough and it’s already spread.”

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