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2022 fish surveys found good numbers of Largemouth Bass at all sizes from 9.5- to 20-inches. Bluegills were most abundant at sizes of 6- to 7.5-inches. Crappies were very abundant. White Crappies make up the majority of the population with a very large group of 6- to 8-inch fish. There are lower numbers of larger White Crappies from 9- to 13-inches. Black Crappies surveyed were all 5.5- to 9-inches, with most being around 6-inches. Channel Catfish were seen in good numbers from 8.5- to 29-inches. Walleye were surveyed in low numbers, but at good sizes between 19- and 25-inches.(2022)
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 .