Culter alburnus
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.
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
No distribution map available
Yangtze River (Chongqing Section)
ChinaThe 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)
ChinaOne 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)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 KoreaThe 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)
CambodiaIn 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
JapanJapan's largest lake sustains a robust Culter alburnus population, particularly around the western littoral zones where submerged vegetation is dense.
Best: April-September
Best bait: Live minnows, small fish, worms, or shrimp