Yes, Those Are Goldfish In The Hudson River

I recently came across a picture of an Osprey catching a Goldfish in the Hudson River in a Facebook group, however there were tons of comments arguing that the fish was not actually a Goldfish. So I figured I would explain in detail that yes, there are actually Goldfish in the Hudson River!

Often viewed as pets, Goldfish are well established in the Hudson River and many other watersheds throughout New York State. They are considered an invasive species, as they are not native to the area. Goldfish are native to China, but were introduced to the areas from releasing pets in the lakes and rivers, or escaping from bait buckets from anglers who purchase them from pet stores to use as bait. It’s illegal to release your pets in any waters or to use Goldfish as bait in New York State.

Goldfish are sometimes confused with Carp, and while they are related in the minnow family, they are different. The easiest way to distinguish the differences is that Carp has small barbels next to their mouth while Goldfish do not. 

Goldfish, while in your fishtank usually do not grow larger than 6 inches, however in the wild open environments, they can grow to over a foot! Goldfish will appear as their typical golden orange color, but most appear a dark green or black color which helps them hide from predators, according to the DEC.

Goldfish populations have been well established in New York, however they are not well established at all throughout the Adirondacks.

Have you caught a Goldfish locally? Send us a picture! SUBMIT PHOTO

Last Updated on August 25, 2020 by Fish HV Contributors