You can't see, smell or taste the mercury or other contaminants in fish. That's why it's important to know which fish are safer than others to eat. The Idaho Fish Consumption Advisory Program (IFCAP), created in 2001, informs Idahoans about possible contamination of lakes and rivers and other water bodies - contamination that may affect fish and the humans who eat the fish. By testing fish tissue samples for contaminants, IFCAP is able to advise the public about safe consumption of fish from Idaho water bodies. When contaminant levels are unsafe, IFCAP may recommend that people limit or avoid eating certain species of fish caught in certain places. IFCAP does this by issuing a Fish Advisory. 

What does a Fish Advisory mean to me?

A fish advisory means that you should be aware of the amount of certain types of fish you should eat. A fish advisory doesn't mean that you should stop fishing in a favorite lake or river. Idaho fish are an excellent source of good nutrition. We encourage you to keep fishing and continue enjoying healthy meals.