To understand the post-release migration characteristics of Cyprinus pellegrini, an endemic fish in Yunnan, this study conducted a mark-recapture trial to observe the initial post-release migration of hatchery-reared C. pellegrini juveniles in the Qilu Lake. A total of 7000 C. pellegrini juveniles [mean total length (8.4±1.2) cm, mean body weight (7.5±3.5) g] were marked by visible implant elastomer and released in the mark-recapture trial. Recapture was conducted 1 d after release and lasted 3 d. Fyke nets were used for recapture at 10 fixed recapture sites located at the release sites and in nearby waters. A total of 37 released C. pellegrini were recaptured [mean total length (7.1±1.0) cm, mean body weight (4.4±1.8) g], and the total recapture rate was 5.286‰. The markers in the recaptured individuals were clearly visible, and marker retention was 100%. Variation in the number of recaptured fish at each fixed site within 3 d after release showed that the released C. pellegrini quickly moved to shallow water and then to open water. The group adventure of released C. pellegrini on the first day after release was 33.33%, whereas that on the second and third days after release was more than twice of that on the first day. This indicated behavioral characteristics of cautious exploration first and bold adventure later. The daily migration distances of released C. pellegrini at 1, 2, and 3 d after release showed a gradual downward trend, with values of 199.4, 110.6, and 98.8 m/d, respectively. Based on the existing information and results of the present study, suggestions were made to improve the effects of the enhancement and release programs of C. pellegrini.