The Mississippi River is one of the largest rivers in the United States, providing opportunities for fishing and other recreational activities. Fish can be found in almost any body of water, but knowing which fish are safe to eat from the Mississippi River is important. Freshwater fish typically has lower levels of mercury, but that doesn’t mean they’re all safe. Taking the time to educate yourself on the types of fish that are safe to eat and understanding the state regulations can make or break your Mississippi River fishing trip.
While there are various species of fish that can be found in the Mississippi River, the most common edible, safe-to-eat species include bluegill, shovelnosed sturgeon, catfish and crappies. All of these species spawn during the summer months, which makes them easier to find and safe to eat. While many other types of fish can be found in the Mississippi River, some species may carry high levels of contaminants, such as mercury, that can cause health risks for those who consume them.
If you’re out fishing the Mississippi River, it’s important to adhere to state regulations when it comes to catching and eating fish. Each state has their own laws and regulations regarding what fish can be caught and how much can be kept. For example, in Arkansas, the state fish is the largemouth bass and they impose a four-fish limit of 10 inches or longer on any kind of bass. In Missouri, the daily limit of crappie or panfish is 25 fish per day. Understanding the regulations in each state can help you avoid accidental violations and possible fines.
When it comes to fishing the Mississippi River, some species may require additional preparation due to their size or shape. For example, shovelnose sturgeon are considerably longer than other fish, which may excessive filleting is required. Some species of catfish may have sharp edges that can easily cut fingers or filleting knives. Knowing how to properly fillet your catch and handle the scales and sharp fins is essential for any would-be angler.
In addition to knowledge of state regulations and proper fishing techniques, it’s important to understand the importance of freshness when it comes to Mississippi River fishing. Most fish do not freeze well, so it’s best to process and cook your catch within a day or two of catching. Fish that have been exposed to the sun and allowed to sit without being frozen can quickly spoil, leading to food-borne illnesses. Taking the time to process and cook fish as soon as possible can reduce the risk of spoilage.
Finally, it is always important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and the fish that you catch. Knowing how to properly clean and sanitize your fishing gear before, during, and after your fishing trip can help reduce the risk of contamination and the spread of harmful bacteria or parasites. Wearing gloves and using appropriate disinfectants is also important when handling or cleaning fish.
Common Species Found in the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is home to several species of fish that are safe to eat. Some of the more commonly found species include bluegill, shovelnosed sturgeon, channel catfish, largemouth bass, crappie and sunfish. Although all of these species are edible, understanding their seasonal availability is important for successful fishing trips.
Bluegill is one of the most common species found in the Mississippi River, and can be caught during the summer months between May and September. These fish are typically found in shallow, Weedy areas and are often schooled with other species such as Crappie. Bluegill are one of the easiest species to catch, as they feed on small insects, worms and baitfish.
Shovelnose sturgeon are longer-bodied fish that can be caught in deeper waters throughout the summer months. These fish often feed on small fish, crustaceans, and insects and can be targeted with worms, minnows or artificial lures. These fish can reach up to five feet in length, making proper filleting and handling a must.
Channel catfish are also commonly found in the Mississippi River and can be caught using several different methods. These fish are typically seen in the daytime, when they feed on insects, crustaceans and small baitfish. Anglers can often catch these fish using a rod and reel with worms or minnows, or they can also be caught using various jigging techniques.
Seasons and Regulations
When it comes to fishing the Mississippi River, it is important to know the regualtions in place. Most states have enacted regulations that dictate size and creel limits for various fish species, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the regulations in your area. Additionally, understanding the seasonal availability of each species can help you increase your success rate when fishing the Mississippi River.
Bluegill and other sunfish are typically active during the summer months, which is when they can be caught. However, certain species such as largemouth bass, crappie and catfish can be found during the spring and fall months. Knowing which species are available in which season and adhering to the regulations in place can help you ensure a successful fishing trip.
Food Safety
When it comes to Mississippi River fishing, food safety is an important factor to consider. As previously discussed, some species can carry higher levels of contaminants such as mercury, which can be dangerous when consumed. Additionally, taking the necessary precautions to avoid contamination due to unclean surfaces, improper filleting, or poor storage practices can help to ensure the health and safety of anyone who consumes Mississippi River fish.
It’s also important to dispose of fish carcasses and guts properly, as they can attract predators and scavengers, as well as unwanted pests such as rodents, birds and insects. Knowing the proper way to dispose of fish remains can help to protect the balance of the environment and ensure that your fishing trips are both safe and enjoyable.
Conclusion
Fishing the Mississippi River offers anglers the opportunity to catch various species of edible fish, but it is important to understand which fish are safe to eat and how to properly handle and prepare them. Taking the time to educate yourself on the regulations in place, seasonal availability of various species, and proper handling and food safety can help ensure that your fishing expeditions are both safe and successful.
