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A 2021 survey showed Bluegills at sizes from 4.5- to 6.5-inches. Largemouth Bass were abundant at sizes from 10- to 15-inches. White Crappies were present in low numbers, but good size at around 10.5 inches. Channel Catfish were not targeted in the survey, but a population does exist with some large fish present.(2021)
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 .