Source for information on Native American Sports: American. Heavy betting was common with most games. Native Americans occasionally incorporated games into religious ceremonies. The rules of a game might vary, but several games were popular in large regions of the West. Despite the diversity of Native American cultures, some games were widespread. The North American record exceeds 57 pounds. Native American Sports Source Popular Games. The Texas rod-and-reel record is currently 43.13 pounds. Although flavor varies with the quality of the water from which fish were captured, their sheer abundance has made them an important food fish in some areas. A growing number of anglers in the US are becoming interested in carp as a sportfish. Other Although carp are generally considered a nuisance by North American anglers, they are highly prized as sportfish in Europe, as they are often excellent fighters. Since that time countless introductions both intentional and unintentional have allowed Cyprinus carpio to become one of the most widely distributed fish species in North America, ranging from central Canada to central Mexico, and from coast to coast. At that time they were considered so valuable that the precious brood stock was fenced and guarded. They were first introduced into North America in 1877. Distribution Common carp are native to temperate portions of Europe and Asia. Although flavor varies with the quality of the water from which fish were captured, their sheer abundance has made them an important food fish in some areas. The Oder Delta, spreading between the border of Poland and Germany, is a unique region with a rich mosaic of terrestrial, marine and freshwater ecosystems. Life History Although carp are generally considered a nuisance by North American anglers, they are highly prized as sportfish in Europe, as they are often excellent fighters. Cassien, France, and weighed in at 75 pounds 11 ounces. The all-tackle world record was landed in 1987 from Lac de St. Common carp may live in excess of 47 years and weigh over 75 pounds. Individuals 12-25 inches in length and weighing up to 8-10 pounds are common, although they can grow much larger. The dorsal fin with 17-21 rays, and the anal fin both have a heavy toothed spine. Typically, color varies from brassy green or yellow, to golden brown, or even silvery. Illustration © TPWD Other Names German Carp, European Carp Description Nongame species, no bag or size limits except on Lady Bird LakeĬyprinus is Greek, and carpio is Latin both words mean "carp." The common carp is a heavy-bodied minnow with barbels on either side of the upper jaw.