Carp

Carp are a very popular fish in the Erie Canal in Perinton, especially at the Oxbow.

In the early spring time carp can be seen migrating towards the Oxbow. The shallow waters in the area provide ideal breeding grounds for these fish.

Every year, hundreds of carp gather here for breeding. If you are lucky you might even spot a vibrant orange goldfish among them. Both present-day sightings and historical records talk about these eye-catching goldfish spotted in the Oxbow waters.

Occasionally, the heron that live in the Oxbow can be seen stalking these fish when they gather in numbers.

Fishermen have had lots of luck in the Oxbow catching carp, by chumming the water and attracting the fish. Bread, corn, and many other food products can be used to attract these fish. The tricky part is keeping the ducks from eating all the bread! It has been said that the carp feed more at night, but they are also very active surface feeding during the day. These carp can get upwards of 25 pounds and put up a fight you will not forget!

Browse all Oxbow history here.