Fish, Wildlife and Parks is investigating the death of at least several hundred carp discovered last weekend floating in Holter Reservoir.

The fish were found floating in the Gates of the Mountains and American Bar area of the reservoir on the Missouri River between Great Falls and Helena.

FWP fisheries biologists and the department’s fish health lab continue to sample Holter and nearby waters to obtain carp to determine the cause of the mortalities. Samples gathered have been sent to a lab for analysis, which could take at least a week until results are available.

No other species of fish were apparently affected and fisheries biologists are not aware of any similar incidents in the Missouri River reservoir system in the past.

Although this does not represent an increased risk to human health, people are reminded they should cook thoroughly any fish caught.

(Report by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks; Photo: kramergonefishing.com)