Bow-Fishing Team Snags Massive 24.5 Pound Koi in Northern Michigan

It's not every day that you hear of someone catching a giant Koi fish in one of the many lakes in Michigan. That's because Koi are an invasive species that, over time, strain the ecosystem.

Koi (carp) are colorful fish that people keep in ponds for decoration. They come in many bright colors and can grow quite large. Originally from Japan, they are symbols of good luck. However, if they get into new environments, they can disrupt local wildlife by competing with native fish.

Somehow, this invasive species has made its way into one of Michigan's most popular and beautiful lakes. Glen Lake is a spring-fed lake in Leelanau County that, at times, feels like you're in the Caribbean. This is why the Glen Lake Association is doing everything possible to eliminate all invasive species.

According to UpNorthLive, so far they have pulled four Koi from Glen Lake with a bow-fishing team from Mesick. One of those Koi was a massive 24.5 lb bright orange beast of a fish. The fish was so big that they believe it could be a bow-fishing world record.

How Do Koi End Up in Michigan's Lakes?

Most people keep them in decorative ponds or aquariums until they eventually outgrow them. Instead of contacting someone who can take the fish off their hands, they place them in our lakes.

Glen Lake isn't the only lake battling against invasive species; it's something nearly every lake in northern Michigan has to endure.