TEXAS FISH CONSUMPTION: Bans and Advisories 2023

By Erika O'Neal | Bastrop Guide

Officials are warning that the public not consume fish from many Texas Lakes, Rivers and Creeks. 

The chemicals of concern include;mercury, ciguatoxin, dioxins, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dieldrin. Mercury causes heavy metal poisoning, ciguatoxin causes vomiting, diarrhea and numbness, dioxins are carcinogens, dieldrin can cause Parkinson’s disease and breast cancer and PCB’s can cause skin conditions and cancer. 

Prohibited waters may also be described as a fish possession ban. DO NOT Keep or Eat Fish from Prohibited Waters! Please see below more information on the bans of Texas Fish Consumption including blue catfish, flathead catfish, crappie, largemouth bass and spotted bass, walleye these are just some of the fish you are being advised to not eat or limit your consumption. If you ask me, I don't know why you would want to consume any at all. This is a huge concern as we are moving into spring and summer in a state that racks in over $115 million in recreational fishing read more here.

Consumptions Bans

Area of Concern Advisories

Portions of upper Lavaca Bayin Calhoun County

The possession of all species of fish and crabs is prohibited from the following areas. Catch and release from these areas is lawful.

Donna Irrigation System in Hidalgo County

The possession of all species of fish and crabs is prohibited from the following areas. Catch and release from these areas is lawful.

Saltwater Consumption Advisories

TDSHS recommends limiting consumption of certain fish in these areas as indicated below.

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Freshwater Consumption Advisories

TDSHS recommends limiting consumption of certain fish in these areas as indicated below.

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This information has been collected directly from The Texas Department of State Health Services (TDSHS) website for educational purposes and public health advisory purposes. For updated information please visit the links shown above or click here.