Fish Consumption Advisories

Fish consumption advisories are in effect at the Nebraska lakes and stream segments listed on the table below. Samples are collected by the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy, analyzed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and advisories are issued by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. A more detailed explanation of the sampling program can be found in the document, “Regional Ambient Fish Tissue Program: 2023 Assessment Report.”

The advisories listed below are not a ban on eating fish, but it is suggested that the public limit long-term consumption of fish caught from those specific waterbodies to eight ounces per week (for adults). These advisories are based on sampling taken through 2022. The table below lists the waterbody advisories by county and the contaminants of primary concern. Many compounds were analyzed in the samples, but only the primary ones listed led to consumption advisories.

Fish Consumption Advisory Sites In Nebraska Through 2023:

The “Fish Species” listed on the table denotes the type of fish that were analyzed from that waterbody. Although advisories are issued only for the species analyzed, it should be noted that other species of fish inhabiting the same waterbody may bioaccumulate similar levels of contaminants. However, these levels can vary depending on the type of fish. For example, mercury tends to bioaccumulate to a greater extent in larger predator fish, such as largemouth bass, and is typically lower in smaller fish and species such as bluegill and crappie. For more information, refer to the DHHS brochure, “Eat Safe Fish in Nebraska”. 

Additional links

For more information about the chemicals of primary concern and health risks, see Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services’ Environmental Risk Assessment web page.

The Nebraska Fishing Guide provides information you need to fish Nebraska water, including: regulations; seasons; limits; special area regulations; public waters guide; stocking reports; outdoor reports; a fish identification guide; Master Angler Awards; photos; discussion forum; and the ability to purchase a permit online. The URL is: https://outdoornebraska.gov/guides-maps/fishing-guides-reports/