Triploid grass carp have been imported to the United States for the purpose of aquatic weed control.  Triploids are sterile, and each fish has been individually tested before final sale.  Grass carp are typically good at controlling submerged aquatic weeds like hydrilla, bushy pondweed, chara, and other soft-tissue species.  They are not a good choice for floating weeds, shoreline emergent weeds, and most other tough-tissue species. 

Stocking of grass carp requires a permit from the Texas Parks and Wildlife.  See the link to permit application to the right of this text. 

The parks and wildlife currently recommends the stocking of 7 to 10 grass carp per surface acre of water for most situations.  In some cases you can achieve control with less than 7 per acre, and in some cases you'll need to stock 10-12 fish per acre for adequate control. 

Should you stock these fish for control or prevention of nuisance vegetation growth?  How many fish should you stock per acre?  Gather some information, then call or email us to discuss your options. 

• What species of nuisance vegetation are present in your lake or pond?  Don't know?  This is the most important factor in determining whether grass carp are right for you.  Send a sample to us for free identification.  Enclose your sample in a zip-loc baggie with a moist paper towel and send it to Overton Fisheries, 19367 IH 45 S, Buffalo TX, 75831.  Include your name and phone number.
• What is the surface acreage or your lake or pond?  What is the average depth?  What percentage of the total area is covered with vegetation?