Consumption Recommendations

Click here for the updated 2023 Mercury in Fish booklet.

Since mercury accumulates differently in each body of water, it is impossible to visually determine whether fish in a lake, or stream are safe to eat without testing them. It is important to read DEQ’s fish consumption guidelines before going to fish.

Rivers & Untested Lakes

If your river or lake has not been tested, follow these guidelines to reduce health risks;

• Eat smaller, younger fish
• Eat more varieties of fish that don’t feed on other fish
• Eat fewer meals of predator fish such as bass, flathead catfish, walleye, and saugeye.