Species Profile: Holland's Carp

Family: Cyprinidae

Scientific names: Spinibarbus hollandi

Common names: Holland’s carpHolland's carp. Photo by Taiwan East-Coast National Scenic Area.

Habitat: Running freshwater rivers and stream, with rocky or gravel bottoms.

Size range: Largest specimens can reach up to 60cm, but most caught are in the 20-30cm range.

Angling tactics: Since their primary food source is small fish and aquatic insects, most Holland’s carp are caught on artificial lures including spoons, spinners, solid plugs and soft baits (minnow imitations). The species is also a favorite among fly anglers who have success with nymphs, wet flies and small streamers.

Sleeker and more attractive than the typical carp, it almost seems a shame to call it a carp. The Holland’s bears a closer resemblance to it’s popular (among European anglers) Cyprinidae cousin, the barbel. Physically similar, the barbel and Holland’s carp belong to two different genus—spinibarbus and barbus. The Holland’s carp is distinguished by is large symmetrical scales that range in color from silver-grey to bright chrome edged by black crescent shapes. The fish’s triangular dorsal fin is also edged in black.

Found in southern China and parts of Southeast Asia, the Holland’s is a favorite among Taiwan anglers. A top predator, it is prized as a hard hitting and tough fighting river fish that fills a niche usually occupied by trout and other salmonids in less-tropical countries. The fish’s range extends to rivers on the southern and eastern sides of the island.

While specimens have been recorded up to 60cm, half that size is more common. Little information on the Holland’s, particularly with regard to angling, is available in English language literature. That included the origin of its curious common name. Rather than being a geographical reference, it most likely it refers to the biologist that first identified the species. Post a comment if you have additional information on the Holland’s carp.

Species Profile: Tilapia

A fly rod is a great way to pursue this widespread cichlid, but you have to get up early. Photo: Michael Rupert HayesFamily: Cichlidae

Scientific names: (three primary species in Taiwan, though most “wild” specimens are hybrids. Oreochromis mossambicus, Oreochromis niloticus, Oreochromis aureus, Tilapia zillii

Common names: (respectively) Mozambique tilapia, Nile tilapia, blue tilapia, red-bellied tilapia

Habitat: Slow moving rivers and canals, ponds, lakes and swamps. Can tolerate low oxygen levels and high pollution.  Prefers areas of heavy aquatic vegetation, its main food source.  Prefers warm water and is sensitive to drops in temperature.

Size range: Large specimens can reach 40-60 cm, depending on species. Individuals under 1 kg. are more common. Typically, tilapia size is determined by competition for food. Larger population concentrations result in smaller fish.

Angling tactics: Most local anglers fish with prepared baits or worms. Flies can be productive depending on time of day. Large specimens have been known to strike top-water lures when spawning/brooding.

Love them or hate them, tilapia are one of the most commonly pursued freshwater fishes in Taiwan. This is mostly due to their ubiquitous nature and ability to flourish nearly everywhere warm fresh water can be found. Urban rivers, canals, farm ponds and swamps are all likely places to find tilapia. Their prevalence leads some “serious” anglers to turn their noses up at this fascinating import that has played a key role in the island’s aquaculture industry.

Widespread though they may be, tilapia can be fun and challenging to catch, particularly on artificials. They are omnivores, but vegetation makes up the largest part of their diet.  Many anglers swear by prepared baits, corn or bread. Worms can also work. Before dawn and just around dusk, tilapia will often begin feeding on insects and this is the best time to get out the fly rod.  

Tilapia are generally considered good eating and have a mild flavor, but be mindful of the water quality in the area you are fishing. Most tilapia sold commercially or in local restaurants are farm-raised.

Tilapia are rapid breeders (individuals spawn several times a year), invasive and can push out more sensitive native species, so catch-and-release is not necessary and in some cases may even be discouraged.

Tilapia fight hard once hooked and are a particularly fun fish to catch on light tackle. Their ease in locating makes them an excellent choice for introducing young anglers to the passtime.

Further reading:

Taiwan Tilapia-- The Fish That Became a National Treasure