Lots of people like fish. In fact, the only thing we love more than eating fish is trying to catch our dinner by ourselves out on the open ocean! However, as much as we love eating fish, we understand that not all fish should be eaten. Numerous species should be avoided for one reason or another, whether you’re eating out at a restaurant, shopping at the supermarket or out fishing. Continue reading to learn more about all of the fish that should be avoided at all costs.
Imported catfish
Ninety percent of the imported catfish that you’ll find here in America comes from Vietnam. Though they’re tasty as can be, the Vietnamese catfish are raised with antibiotics that are banned in the United States. Additionally, two of the most commonly imported catfish, Swai and Basa, aren’t actually considered catfish by the government, so they aren’t held to the same stringent inspection standards. Instead of dining on imported catfish, choose farm-raised catfish from right here in the United States! You can trust that it’s safe to eat and will taste really good.
Atlantic cod
The population of Atlantic cod has been rapidly declining since the mid-1990s. It’s sad to think about, but what was once the most plentiful fish in the waters off the coast of New England is now just one step above “endangered” on the list of threatened species. If you want to help preserve Atlantic cod for future generations, consider ordering something else off the menu the next time you see it as an option at a fish restaurant. The good news is that Pacific cod are still thriving, so feel free to order this similar-tasting fish instead.
American eel
Chances are, you’ll try sushi at some point during your trip to Hawaii. Assuming that’s the case, try to avoid any rolls made with American eel (also known as yellow eel or silver eel). This type of eel tends to be highly contaminated with mercury and PCBs. This is not good for your health! In addition to being bad for you, American eel is overfished and needs some time to help restore the population.
Sharks
The vicious predators we watch each year during Shark Week actually need our help to survive. Overfishing of all sorts of species of sharks has become a major problem across the globe. As a result, the fish that sharks eat lower down the food chain are becoming overpopulated. You very may well end up catching a shark during your private fishing tour with Sea Wife Charters. If that’s the case, we encourage you to send it back in the ocean. (Feel free to get a picture first, though!)
Although you won’t encounter a majority of these fish while on private charters during your trip to Hawaii, now you at least have all of this important information the next time you’re dining out or shopping for fish. Take this knowledge back with you to the mainland and spread it amongst your friends and family!