American River, Lower
Advisory for non-migratory fish based on mercury. Advisory for fish that migrate based on mercury or PCBs. (For information on biotoxins and harmful algal blooms that may be found in California water bodies, see below.)
The Lower American River posters were revised in November 2022 to include the updated advice for American Shad, Chinook (King) Salmon, Steelhead Trout, Striped Bass, and White Sturgeon, based on the Advisory for Fish that Migrate.
For additional fish species found in the Lower American River and not included in this advisory, OEHHA recommends following the statewide advisory for eating fish from California’s rivers, streams, and creeks without site-specific advice.
Posters should not be modified. Please contact us at fish@oehha.ca.gov regarding alternative poster formats.
Waterbody
Women 18-49 Years and Children 1-17 Years
2 servings a week
OR
1 serving a week
DO NOT EAT
Women 50 Years and Older and Men 18 Years and Older
7 servings a week
OR
5 servings a week
OR
2 servings a week
OR
1 serving a week
What is a serving?
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The recommended serving of fish is about the size and thickness of your hand. Give children smaller servings.
Preparing and Cooking Fish
- 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.
= 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 at this water body and learn healthy water habits to protect yourself, your family, and your pets during your visit.
Fish Advisory Map
View maps of current statewide and site-specific advisories
Fish, Incident Response, Seafood Safety, and Harmful Algal Bloom Section
Sacramento Office
1001 I Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 423-7572
Fish@oehha.ca.gov