Yisroel R.

Late summer is a great time to grab a fishing rod and head outdoors, and with the cooler days of fall just around the corner, plenty more good fishing weather is still ahead. Whether it’s for the sport, the relaxation, or simply an enjoyable outing, fishing is a favorite way to spend time outdoors.

But a successful day on the water doesn’t necessarily mean everything caught should end up on the supper table.

The Rockland County Department of Health is reminding residents of New York State’s 2026 fish consumption advice, noting that some locally caught fish can contain chemicals that build up in the body over time. The recommendations vary depending on the type of fish and who is eating it.

For most people, yellow perch, striped bass, and brown bullhead can be eaten up to four meals per month. White sucker and white perch should be limited to one meal per month. Smallmouth bass and carp should not be eaten.

Different recommendations apply to children under 15 and people under 50 who can become pregnant. For these groups, yellow perch, striped bass, and brown bullhead are limited to one meal per month, while white sucker should not be eaten. White perch can be eaten once per month.

Health officials also recommend removing the skin and fat before cooking fish and using cooking methods that allow the fat to drip away. Residents are advised not to use the drippings for sauces or gravies.

So by all means, keep the rods ready and enjoy the remaining summer and upcoming fall fishing season. Just remember: when something starts tugging on the other end of the line, it may be a great catch but that doesn’t always make it supper worthy.