These Are The Top Fish To Avoid Eating If Caught In Michigan

Growing up in Michigan I had the chance to fish with my father and was hooked.

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Michigan is known for its beautiful lakes and rivers, which are home to a variety of fish species.

However, not all fish caught in Michigan are safe to eat.

You Might Want To Avoid Eating This Fish If Caught In Michigan

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) released the 2022 Eat Safe Fish Guide to help residents learn about and plan for local fish consumption.

According to the guide, some of the top fishes to avoid eating if caught in Michigan include

Carp

Rainbow smelt

Bluegill

Sunfish caught in the Lower Branch of the River Raisin.

Why Should You Avoid Carp?

Carp are known to contain high levels of mercury, while rainbow smelt from Lake Superior has elevated levels of PFOS.

What Are PFOS?

PFOS and PFOA are two types of chemicals that are part of a larger group of chemicals called PFAS.

These chemicals are used to make products that resist heat, oil, stains, grease, and water.

They are found in many everyday products, such as clothing, furniture, adhesives, food packaging, heat-resistant non-stick cooking surfaces, and the insulation of electrical wire.

Scientific studies have shown that exposure to some PFAS in the environment may be linked to harmful health effects in humans and animals.

Avoid Eating Bluegill and Sunfish Caught in the Lower Branch of the River Raisin?

Bluegill and sunfish caught in the Lower Branch of the River Raisin have been found to contain high levels of PFOS and PFOA.

Larger Fish You Should Avoid Eating In Michigan

It is recommended to avoid eating larger fish, such as bass and walleye, as they tend to accumulate more harmful chemicals in their bodies over time.

What Are Some Safer Fish To Eat In Michigan?

it is safer to eat smaller fish, such as perch and sunfish, which have lower levels of harmful chemicals.

While Michigan is known for its great fishing, it's also known and famous for these 25 things.