Mississippi harvests over 1.7 million pounds of invasive carp in 2025

In 2025, the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks supported the harvest of more than 1.7 million pounds of invasive carp from Mississippi waterways, according to department officials.

These invasive fish compete with native sportfish for food and habitat, threatening local ecosystems. The department receives funding from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to support the Mississippi Incentivized Carp Program, which assists carp processors and commercial fishermen nationwide.

Harvested invasive carp are used for human consumption, animal feed, and fertilizer, helping to turn a problematic species into a valuable resource. Mississippi residents can participate by purchasing a commercial fishing license. More information is available on the department’s Aquatic Nuisance Species webpage.

Source: Original Article