The Idaho Fish Consumption Advisory Project (IFCAP) informs Idahoans about possible contamination of lakes and streams that may affect fish and the humans who eat the fish.
When certain fish contain unsafe levels of contaminants, IFCAP may recommend limiting or avoiding those fish from specific water bodies. This recommendation is called a fish advisory.
A fish advisory does not mean you should stop fishing. Idaho fish are a healthy and nutritious food. We encourage you to keep fishing and enjoy safe meals by following the advisory guidelines.
Who Should Be Careful
Some fish in Idaho contain contaminants that can be harmful if eaten in large amounts, especially for:
- Women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing
- Women of childbearing age
- Children under age 15
Eating too much fish high in contaminants may affect a child's brain development, physical growth, and behavior.
Fish Advisories Information
Bass caught in Idaho often have higher levels of mercury, a toxic substance. Mercury can harm the developing brain and nervous system of unborn babies and young children. It can also affect learning and behavior.
To protect your health and the health of your family:
• Limit how much bass you eat, especially if you are pregnant or under age 15
• Follow the guidelines in the Fish Best Choices brochure
• Check for local advisories that may apply to other species or lakes and rivers
Suggested meal sizes:
• Adult meal size= 8 oz uncooked fish
• Children meal size = 2 1/4 oz uncooked fish
Monthly intake of Bass
| Pregnant women, women who are nursing or planning to become pregnant: | Children under the age of 15 years: | General public (people not in the first two groups): |
| Do Not Eat More Than: | Do Not Eat More Than: | Do Not Eat More Than: |
| 2 meals per month of Bass | 2 meals per month of Bass | 8 meals per month of Bass |