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Fishery surveys in 2023 showed larger Bluegills being 6.5- to 7-inches. Black Crappies are present in fair numbers. The larger crappies are mostly 8- to 9-inches with some fish up to 10-inches. Largemouth Bass are very abundant at sizes from 9- to 14-inches. Bass were surveyed up to 19.5-inches. Channel Catfish were targeted in 2023 surveys and were found in good numbers at sizes from 12- to 20-inches.(2023)
In nearly all cases, Iowa fish are safe to eat. Cleaning and/or preparing the meal causes most of the problems regarding taste or color of fish. Like all living creatures, fish are susceptible to diseases, parasites, and other naturally occurring conditions in the water. If you suspect your fish is affected by any of these conditions, do not eat it. Consider eating smaller and younger fish which usually have lower levels of contaminants than larger ones. Most contaminants accumulate in larger, older fish. For additional information, check out our resources for eating and cooking Iowa caught fish.
To learn more about fish tissue monitoring, visit our Fish Tissue Monitoring page .