Don’t eat fish from these Alabama waters: 2026 state health advisories
On Tuesday, the department of public health released its annual fish advisories, warning residents about potentially contaminated fish from certain areas in the state.
Mason Reed 
The Alabama Department of Public Health has issued its annual fish consumption advisories, urging residents to stay informed about potential contaminants in local rivers, streams, and lakes. As noted in previous reports, these guidelines are critical for public safety regarding recreational fishing.
Safety First: Understanding the Risks
While fishing remains a staple of Alabama recreation and a source of healthy food, the state health department cautions that certain toxic chemicals can accumulate in fish. These substances, including mercury, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and per- or polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), can originate from industrial plants, stormwater runoff, and agricultural activity.
Because fish can harbor concentrations of these contaminants hundreds or even thousands of times higher than the surrounding water, the department advises residents to carefully review consumption limits or abstain from eating fish from specific, identified areas altogether.
2026 Advisory Data
This year’s findings are based on 386 samples collected across 34 bodies of water. The data, provided by a news release from the department of public health, stems from sampling conducted in the fall of 2025 by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management, the Tennessee Valley Authority, and the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
You can view the full, detailed list of current fish advisories by visiting the official guide provided by the state.
Special Guidance for At-Risk Groups
The health department offers specific warnings for babies and pregnant women, recommending they avoid swordfish, king mackerel, shark, and tilefish entirely. For albacore (white) tuna, at-risk groups are advised to limit consumption, while sticking to up to two meals per week of fish or shellfish known to have lower mercury levels.
Clarification on Recreation
It is important to note that these advisories are strictly related to fish consumption. According to state officials, activities such as boating, swimming, or catch-and-release fishing remain perfectly safe even in waters covered by a consumption advisory.
