Health officials warn against eating too many carp from upper part of James River
If youโre catching carp, health officials say limit how much you eat. On Tuesday, the Virginia Department of Health issued a fish advisory that stretches from the head of the James near Iron Gate to Balcony Falls Dam downstream of Glasgow, near the Maury River. Recent fish tissue sample results from the Upper James River in 2018 and 2019 show polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) levels in carp exceed the amount considered safe for long-term human consumption. Over time, PCBs build up in fish tissue to levels that are many times greater than levels in the surrounding water. Thatโs why eating carp from this area may pose a health risk, but swimming or waterskiing is safe.
Alabama Bass in Virginia lakes are threatening stateโs bass population
The species, which is in appearance, is nearly identical to the Spotted Bass, threatens both Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass through competition and hybridization, according to DGIF. Although Alabama Bass, which are native to Alabama and parts of Georgia, can grow somewhat larger than Spotted Bass, DGIF says they have a tendency to become stunted, ultimately creating a fishery dominated by small bass. Here's a comparison between Alabama Bass, Spotted Bass and Largemouth Bass (iNaturalist Angling for Black Bass Conservation Project)DGIF believes that further spread of Alabama Bass may jeopardize bass fisheries in systems such as Smith Mountain Lake, Lake Anna, Lake Moomaw, South Holston Reservoir, the upper James River, and the Shenandoah River. Existing Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass populations saw negative impacts after Alabama Bass entered the water in Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina, according to DGIF. Contact DGIF at fisheries@dgif.virginia.gov or at 804 367-1293Anyone with information about intentioal stockings of Alabama Bass should contact DGIF law enforcement at 800-237-5712 or WildCrime@dgif.virginia.gov.
Free fishing days set for June 5-7 in Virginia
The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries established free fishing days on June 5, 6 and 7, 2020. To increase angling opportunities, Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) has removed the restriction to fishing designated stocked trout waters. Virginiaโs diversified trout habitat offers a wide range of trout fishing prospects. All fishing regulations including size, season, catch limits, and gear restrictions, will remain in effect. The 2020 Freshwater Fishing and Boating Regulations can be found at the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries website at: www.dgif.virginia.gov/fishing/regulations/.com.