Caught a trophy Goldfish in Morristown

The Goldfish (Carassius auratus) is a well-known member of the Cyprinidae family and belongs to the order Cypriniformes. While most people associate goldfish with small pet bowls, these fish can grow surprisingly large in natural settings and can be found in various waterways including Lake Pleasant near Morristown, Arizona. These distinctive fish are characterized by their vibrant golden-orange coloration and forked tail, though wild specimens may display more subdued colors.

Goldfish Overview

Originally domesticated from wild carp in China over a thousand years ago, goldfish were selectively bred for their bright coloration and various fin configurations. What many people don't realize is that when released into natural waterways, they can become invasive, growing much larger than their aquarium counterparts and competing with native species for resources.

Goldfish Habitat and Distribution

While not native to North America, goldfish have established populations in many freshwater systems including ponds, lakes, slow-moving streams, and ditches. In Arizona waters like Lake Pleasant, they adapt well to both shallow backwaters and deeper sections with vegetation. They prefer still or slow-moving water bodies with dense aquatic vegetation and soft, muddy bottoms where they can forage.

Goldfish Size and Weight

In natural environments, goldfish can reach impressive sizes far beyond what most people expect. They typically range from 1 to 19 inches in length and can weigh between 1 and 10 pounds when given adequate space and food. The largest specimens are usually found in open water systems where they've had years to grow without the constraints of aquarium life.

Goldfish Diet and Behavior

Goldfish are omnivorous bottom-feeders that consume a varied diet including plant matter, insects, small crustaceans, and detritus. They feed by rooting through bottom sediments, often creating cloudy water conditions. They're most active during dawn and dusk hours, making these prime times for anglers targeting them in places like Lake Pleasant.

Goldfish Spawning Season

Spawning typically occurs when water temperatures reach 50-78°F, generally in spring and early summer months in Arizona waters. During this period, males develop small white tubercles on their gill covers and pectoral fins. Females scatter adhesive eggs among dense vegetation, with a single female capable of producing thousands of eggs in a season.

Goldfish Fishing Techniques

While not typically a primary target species for most anglers, goldfish can be caught using simple techniques. Light tackle with small hooks baited with worms, corn, bread, or small dough balls works well. Look for areas with underwater vegetation and murky water. In December around Morristown and Lake Pleasant, focus on shallow, warmer pockets of water during midday when temperatures are highest.

Goldfish Is It Good to Eat?

Though edible, goldfish are rarely sought after as table fare in North America. They have a mild flavor similar to carp but tend to be bony. Those who do prepare them often use smoking or pressure cooking methods to deal with the numerous bones. From a nutritional standpoint, they provide protein and omega-3 fatty acids but are generally considered more of a sport or novelty catch than a food source.

Goldfish Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for goldfish?

A: Simple baits like corn kernels, bread balls, worms, or commercial dough baits work best for goldfish. They respond well to similar baits used for other carp species, with sweet-scented options often producing good results.

Q: Where can I find goldfish near Morristown?

A: In the Lake Pleasant area, look for goldfish in shallow, vegetated coves and backwaters with muddy bottoms. They tend to prefer protected areas with ample cover and food sources.

Q: Is goldfish good to eat?

A: While technically edible, goldfish aren't typically considered a desirable food fish in North America due to their bony nature and the fact that they're often found in less pristine waters. Most anglers practice catch and release with goldfish.

Q: When is the best time to catch goldfish?

A: Early morning and late evening are typically the best times to target goldfish as they're most active during these periods. Seasonally, late spring through summer offers the best fishing when they're actively feeding and spawning.

Q: Are goldfish invasive in Arizona waters?

A: Yes, goldfish are considered an invasive species in Arizona waterways. They compete with native fish for resources and can disrupt local ecosystems when established in sufficient numbers.

Q: How can I tell the difference between goldfish and koi in Lake Pleasant?

A: Goldfish have a more rounded body shape and lack the barbels (whisker-like appendages) near the mouth that koi possess. Koi also tend to have more varied coloration patterns including black, white, red, and yellow combinations, while goldfish are predominantly gold-orange.