Abstract
Aras Dam reservoir is the largest water source in the northwest of Iran in terms of exploitation of various aquatic species, but the information of its aquatic stocks is very limited. The purpose of this study was to determine the stock  status of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) in the Aras Dam reservoir using the latest version of catch-maximum sustainable yield (CMSY++) model. For this purpose, by using the CMSY++ model and the catch data from October 2013 to March 2022, and harvest limit and stock level of the common carp in the Aras Dam reservoir were estimated. The results indicate the poor condition of this species and the high fishing pressure on its stock. The length-weight relationship showed that growth pattern in common carp was homogeneous. In  general, the continuation of this trend and the failure to adjust the exploitation of this species stock, either legally or  illegally, will lead to the reduction and depletion of its stock.. This study, recommends to the decision makers for appropriate mangement of fishing especially illegal fishing, to pay attention to the allowed annual harvest limits, apply management policies and protection of  the nursery grounds of common carp in the Aras Dam reservoir.