By Illinois Radio Network

SPRINGFIELD – The state of Illinois has done a great job of fishing the Asian carp population down. But wildlife managers in the state say what they really need is a good carp fish sandwich to clear out the invasive fish from Illinois’ rivers.

In the upper Illinois River, Asian carp are becoming harder and harder to find.

Kevin Irons with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources said that’s because the state has paid fishermen to catch as many carp as they can, and it’s worked.

“The population today is 50 percent, or maybe as much as 25 percent of what it was,” Irons said. “A reduction of, probably an average 68 percent, of what it was.”

Irons said if people would start eating Asian carp, the demand would lower their numbers even more.

Some people do eat it, though. Critics say it’s too boney, but Irons says if it’s prepared properly, it’s as good as most fish.

“Carp is a four-letter word, and people get really worked up about eating a carp,” Irons said.” But if you like fish, this is as good as a bluegill or a crappie.”