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Statewide Advisory for Eating Fish from California's Lakes and Reservoirs without Site‑specific Advice

Advisory based on mercury and PCBs. (For information on biotoxins and harmful algal blooms that may be found in California water bodies, see below.)

Follow this advice for all lakes and reservoirs in California that do not have their own advisory and for species not included in a site-specific advisory. Check if a lake or reservoir has a fish advisory on our map.

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Women 18-49 Years and Children 1-17 Years

2 servings a week
Or
1 servings a week
DO NOT EAT

Women 50 Years and Older and Men 18 Years and Older

4 servings a week
Or
3 servings a week
Or
2 servings a week
Or
1 servings a week
DO NOT EAT

What is a serving?

What is a Serving?

The recommended serving of fish is about the size and thickness of your hand. Give children smaller servings. For small fish species, several individual fish may make up a single serving.

Preparing and Cooking Fish

Fish fillet and crab

  • For fish, eat only the skinless fillet.
  • For shellfish, eat only the meat.
  • Some chemicals are higher in the skin, fat, and guts.
  • Remove and throw away the skin before cooking.
  • Cook thoroughly and allow the juices to drain away.

 

heart healthy  = Fish that are high in omega-3s and you can eat them at least once a week. Eating fish with omega-3s can lower heart disease in adults and help babies’ brains to develop.

Resources related to Biotoxins and Harmful Algal Blooms

Harmful algal blooms are increasing in California and may occur throughout the year in some water bodies. OEHHA recommends that you check the California harmful algal bloom (HAB) portal to see if a bloom has been reported and learn healthy water habits to protect yourself, your family, and your pets during your visit.