Hello, my friends and I recently caught some bass, fishing at a friend's family's golf course. The fish live in the lake on the course. I need to know if these fish are safe to eat. No one seems to be definitavely sure one way or the other. We were concerened mabye chemicals from the grass get into the lake making the fish unsafe to eat? If anyone has any insight i'd greatly appreciate it! Thanks!

I was able to locate information regarding a Fish Consumption Advisory .

What IS the contaminant of concern in bass?

Mercury is the key contaminant of concern that has been found in some bass in Washington lakes and rivers in a 20- lake study.

Where does mercury come from?
Mercury occurs naturally and can be released from rocks and volcanoes and deposited globally by winds and rain. When deposited in water, it
changes to an organic form that can bio-accumulate in fish and humans.

What are the health risks?
Mercury can affect the development of the nervous system, which can result in learning disabilities in children. In adults it can also affect the heart and the immune and reproductive systems.

How can you reduce the risk to you and your family?

There are several ways you can reduce your risk:
· Women and children should limit the amount of freshwater bass they eat to no more than 2 meals/month
· Eat a variety of fish each week
· Try to select smaller fish, as it is the larger fish that usually contain more contaminants
· With other fish, remove the skin of fish, and bake or grill fish fillets to let the fat drip
· Continue to eat fish… it is good for you!

This is generic information. If you are concerned about possible chemical contamination, perhaps you should contact the local health department for more information on specifics in your area.