The legendary orange carp, known as the world’s largest fish ‘The Carrot,’ has died at 20, prompting tributes from anglers.
The Carrot passed away at 20
The world mourns the loss of the legendary giant goldfish, ‘The Carrot,’ after her passing at the age of 20.
Known as the world’s largest goldfish, The Carrot’s vibrant orange color and massive size made her a sensation.
Weighing in at an astonishing 67 pounds (30 kg), she captured the hearts of anglers and fish enthusiasts alike.
The Carrot’s lifeless body was discovered at her home in Bluewater Lakes, a fishery in Champagne, France.
Her exact age was never confirmed, but she was believed to be around 20 years old.
Sadly, she succumbed to the natural effects of aging.
According to Gary Tardi, The Carrot’s passing followed a stressful period of spawning, which often puts a strain on carp.
“She died not long after spawning, which is a very stressful time for carp, and if you’re going to lose one, it is then,” he explained.
The Carrot was known as the world’s largest goldfish.
The Carrot gained worldwide recognition not just for her size but also for her bright, unusual coloring.
Anglers from all over Europe flocked to Bluewater Lakes for the chance to catch this legendary carp. They always released her back into the water after each encounter.
The Carrot was laid to rest near her lake at Bluewater Lakes, owned by British fisherman Gary Tardi.
A memorial plaque was erected to honor her memory and legacy.
In a heartfelt statement, a spokesperson for Bluewater Lakes expressed the profound sadness shared by those at the fishery.
He said: “We put The Carrot in about 20 years ago as something different for our customers to fish for. She became a legend on her own. To know she’s gone has broken us in soul.”
The Carrot left behind two offspring, both of whom are thriving in the same lake.
One of these baby fish has already reached a remarkable weight of 40 pounds.
While, another smaller but equally striking carp continues The Carrot’s legacy.
Tributes from anglers poured in after The Carrot passed away.
Anglers who had the opportunity to interact with The Carrot shared their memories and condolences.
Lee Parker, one of the last to catch the fish in July, posted, “Absolutely gutting news, having only caught her a few weeks ago. Such a tragic loss. So glad her memories will live on forever, and there are two more to carry on her legacy.”
Another angler, Ben Soane, remarked, “Such a cool carp and probably the most recognizable fish worldwide.”
Previously, The Carrot was caught by Lee Parker in one of the memorable catches.
Throughout her life, The Carrot provided unforgettable moments for anglers.
In July, Lee Parker, a British angler, nearly found himself pulled into the lake when The Carrot took his bait with incredible force.
After a near-ten-minute battle, he successfully steered the giant goldfish into his landing net and took a few photos before returning her safely to the water.
Similarly, in 2022, Andy Hackett, 43, from Kidderminster in Worcestershire, spent 25 minutes reeling in The Carrot.
Weighing just under five stone, she was a record-breaking catch for Hackett, who never expected to catch the famous fish.
“It was brilliant to catch it but also sheer luck,” he said.
The Carrot will be remembered as one of the most significant fish in modern history.
She was 30 pounds heavier than the world’s previous biggest goldfish, caught by Jason Fugate in Minnesota, USA, in 2019.
Her size also far surpassed the 30-pound orange koi carp caught by Raphael Biagini in the south of France in 2010.
The Carrot was not just a giant goldfish; she was a symbol of joy, amazement, and wonder for anglers around the world.
The Carrot will remain a cherished part of fishing history, forever remembered for her unique beauty and incredible size.
