Hero on the hooks: Turn your catch into cash with Oklahoma's Black Carp Bounty

The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation is asking anglers to help identify and report black carp before the invasive species threatens local waterways.

>>> $100 bounty for invasive Black Carp in Oklahoma

What’s going on?

Oklahoma is now part of a growing federal initiative to stop the spread of black carp, an invasive species known for damaging native aquatic ecosystems. As part of the response, a $100 bounty is being offered for every confirmed black carp caught and reported in the state.

Although no confirmed sightings have occurred in Oklahoma yet, nearby reports in the Red and Arkansas Rivers have prompted state officials to act quickly. Invasive carp biologist Erika Sarvela with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) says early detection is critical.

Q: What is a black carp?

Black carp are large, bottom-dwelling fish that feed primarily on mollusks such as mussels and snails. They can grow over 3 feet long and weigh more than 60 pounds. Native to Asia, they were brought to the U.S. in the 1970s and 80s for use in aquaculture to control snail populations, but later escaped into open waterways.

Q: Why are they a threat?

Black carp are considered a major threat to native aquatic species, especially Oklahoma’s mussel populations, which are already vulnerable. These fish consume large quantities of snails and mussels, disrupting local food chains and endangering species that rely on those organisms to survive.

Q: Where have they been found?

So far, black carp have been found in the Mississippi River Basin, including parts of the Arkansas and Red Rivers in neighboring states. While Oklahoma has no confirmed reports yet, the ODWC is treating the potential spread as a serious concern.

Q: How does the bounty program work?

Anglers who catch a black carp in Oklahoma are eligible for a $100 reward. There is a limit of 10 bounties per month per person. To qualify, anglers must humanely kill the fish (keeping live invasive carp is illegal in Oklahoma), store it on ice, and report detailed information about the catch to ODWC.

Q: What information do I need to report?

To claim the bounty, email invasive carp biologist Erika Sarvela at erika.sarvela@odwc.ok.gov with the following:

1. Exact location of the catch (GPS coordinates preferred)
2. Type of gear and bait used
3. Habitat conditions
4. Clear photos of the fish’s head, mouth, and full body
5. Total length of the fish

Q: What do black carp look like?

They resemble grass carp but can be identified by their blackish-gray color and large, pharyngeal teeth (used to crush mollusks). Photos submitted with your report will help ODWC confirm the species.

Q: Could people try to game the system by stocking black carp?

Sarvela says that’s highly unlikely and not a practical concern. “It’s illegal to transport or possess live black carp in Oklahoma,” she explains. “Plus, our priority is early detection, not mass removal. We’re trying to understand if they’re here yet — not create incentives for abuse.”

Q: Why does early detection matter?

If black carp are detected early, wildlife officials have a better chance of containing or slowing their spread before they become established. Angler participation plays a key role in protecting Oklahoma’s waters from long-term ecological damage.

Want to help or learn more?

Visit wildlifedepartment.com for updates on invasive species and how to get involved in local conservation efforts.