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Water: Fish Advisories

Fish Consumption Advisories

Fish are a lean, low-calorie source of protein. However, some fish may contain chemicals that could pose health risks. When contaminant levels are unsafe, consumption advisories may recommend that people limit or avoid eating certain species of fish caught in certain places.

Every year since 1993, the EPA has made available to the public a compendium of information on locally issued fish advisories and safe eating guidelines. This information is provided to EPA by states, U.S. territories, Indian tribes, and local governments who issue fish consumption advisories and safe eating guidelines to inform people about the recommended level of consumption for fish caught in local waters.

Welcome to the EPA's Fish Consumption Advisory website. This website is divided into two main areas: a General Advisory Information area and a Technical Advisory Information area.

Children fishingAlertSunsetFishing at Canyon Lake, Texas, courtesy of US Army Corps of EngineersSummersville Lake, West Virginia

General Advisory Information

Learn more about fish advisories, such as:

  • Healthy Eating of the Fish You Catch
  • Advisories Where You Live
  • Joint Federal Advisory for Mercury in Fish
  • Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Technical Advisory Information

Scale of risk and benefits

View more technical and scientific fish advisory information, such as:

  • Advanced Fish Advisory and Tissue Searches
  • Fish Advisory Newsletter
  • NLFA Factsheet
  • Fish Forum
  • Contacts and Related Links

Fish Kids


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