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Culter alburnus

Culter alburnus

Culter alburnus© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

Culter alburnus, commonly called the topmouth culter, is a long‑bodied freshwater cyprinid prized by anglers for its fast‑running habit and tasty flesh. It inhabits rivers, lakes and reservoirs across East Asia and can grow nearly a meter long.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Xenocyprididae

Max Size

92.8 cm

Habitat

freshwater

Climate

temperate

Best Season

Spring to early summer (April‑June) when the fish spawn and are most active

Best Time

Early morning and late afternoon/evening

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Culter alburnus

  • Use light to medium spinning gear to feel the subtle bites
  • Present small live baits such as minnows, shad or insects near the surface
  • Try bright‑colored soft plastics or tiny spinners tipped with scent for aggressive strikes
  • Fish near structure, weed edges, and drop‑offs where the fish hunt for prey

Top Fishing Locations for Culter alburnus

Yangtze River (Chongqing Section)

China
intermediate78% Very Common

The middle Yangtze offers extensive stretches of moderate flow and abundant aquatic vegetation, making it a prime habitat for Culter alburnus during the warm months.

Best: May-September

Lake Tai (Taihu)

China
beginner85% Very Common

One of China's largest freshwater lakes, Taihu supports dense populations of Culter alburnus, especially in the shallow northern bays where the water is warm and nutrient‑rich.

Best: April-October

Yarlung Tsangpo River (Upper Section)

China (Tibet)
expert42% Occasional

High‑altitude stretches of the Yarlung Tsangpo host clear, fast‑moving water where Culter alburnus thrives in riffles and pools; reaching the site requires a trek, making it a bucket‑list destination.

Best: June-August

Han River (Seoul Basin)

South Korea
beginner66% Common

The Han River flowing through Seoul provides easy access to urban anglers; abundant weed beds near the Hanam stretch attract large schools of Culter alburnus.

Best: May-October

Mekong River (Kratie Province)

Cambodia
intermediate58% Common

In the lower Mekong near Kratie, the river widens and slows, creating ideal feeding grounds for Culter alburnus; night fishing with light rigs is especially productive.

Best: June-September

Lake Biwa

Japan
intermediate73% Very Common

Japan's largest lake sustains a robust Culter alburnus population, particularly around the western littoral zones where submerged vegetation is dense.

Best: April-September

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Culter alburnus

Recommended Equipment

RodLight to medium spinning rod, 6‑7 ft, fast action
Line2‑6 lb (0.9‑2.7 kg) test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSmall spoons, micro‑spinners, soft plastic grubs, and tiny crankbaits
TechniqueCasting and retrieving near surface, jigging small lures, or live‑bait drift

Best bait: Live minnows, small fish, worms, or shrimp