Local Fish Consumption Limits Advised by SDDOH
Local Fish Consumption Limits Advised by SDDOH
The South Dakota Department of Health (SDDOH), together with the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) and Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) has issued advisories for maximum mercury fish consumption.
After testing samples taken from local fish, they have issued their annual report to keep the public informed about necessary precautions.
“Our commitment to public health and safety drives the annual fish sampling program,” said Melissa Magstadt, DOH secretary. “The collaboration between the DOH, DANR, and GFP ensures that South Dakotans have the most up-to-date information regarding fish consumption advisories.”
The new advisories are based on mercury concentrations found in samples and are intended to provide the public with the information essential to make informed decisions.
The mercury found in fish tissues is mostly from atmospheric deposition from sources outside of South Dakota, according to the SDDOH.
Mercury is a hazardous chemical that occurs naturally in the environment and is utilized in industrial applications.
In lakes, small organisms convert inorganic mercury into an organic form called methylmercury. These particles are consumed by smaller fish. Larger fish who prey on the smaller fish also consume the methylmercury. This element is eliminated very slowly by fish so it accumulates in their system, both their organs and tissues.
Mercury and methylmercury cannot be removed by cooking or filleting the game fish.
There is no known health risk from mercury exposure related to boating, swimming, or catch and release fishing.
“On page 55 in our South Dakota Fishing Handbook it outlines information regarding general versus high risk individuals,” said Nick Harrington, GFP communications manager.
General risk individuals include men, women, and children over seven years of age.
High risk individuals includes pregnant women or nursing women.
The 2026 advisories in Day County limit consumption of walleye measuring over 24 inches from Enemy Swim Lake and northern pike measuring over 29 inches from Lynn Lake. In Codington County, the consumption limits are walleye measuring over 18 inches and white bass measuring over 15 inches. In Deuel County at Lake Alice, consumption limits apply to walleye measuring over 25 inches.
For a complete list of fish consumption advisories visit https: //doh.sd.gov/topics/food-lodging-safety/food-safety/fish-consumption.
