They are hardy fish that easily adapt to different waters and are, therefore, prohibited for use as bait. Quillback Quillback have a limited distribution in New York State. They are only found in large rivers and lakes, such as Erie, Ontario, and Champlain and the Susquehanna and Allegheny rivers. Although quillback closely resemble carp, they are easily distinguished by the lack of barbels around their mouths. Only a few facts are known about the life history of the quillback.
Adults feed on insects and invertebrates and have few natural enemies.
Spawning takes place in spring. Quillback have little interaction with anglers. At times, they are caught on doughballs, but few people actively try to catch these bony fish. Grass Carp Grass carp are one of the largest members of the minnow family, commonly reaching weights in excess of 25 pounds. Native to the rivers of eastern China and the Soviet Union, grass carp have the unique ability to eat and, therefore, control a wide variety of submergent plants.