by Jim Schwartz,
Associate Editor

THE MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH has issued a simplified guide for safe consumption of fish from the State's lakes and rivers. For the general population, the Department says it's okay to eat as many sunfish, crappie, perch and bullhead as you wish since they don't contain as many contaminants as larger, older fish. Larger fish of other species, however, should be eaten only once a week.

FOR WOMEN who are or wish to become pregnant, and for children under age 15, eat panfish only once a week. Walleyes shorter than 20 inches and northern pike shorter than 30 inches should be eaten only once a month. Larger fish should not be eaten at all. When cleaning fish, it's a good idea to remove fat, particularly belly fat, since contaminants tend to build up in those areas.