Black river parasites

[Coach]

I've noticed for the past few years that the smallmouth in the Black are filled with some type of parasite. They look like little yellow seeds embedded in the meat, but when you cut them out, they are little yellowish worms. Some of the bass have little black dots all over the fillets, which I assume are the "worms" in their early stages. I've always cut the fillets into small chunks and removed all of the little worm-like parasites then cooked them up VERY hot.

 

Does anyone know the story behind these little suckers, and whether there is any danger when eating the meat? I have heard that they come from the herons, and their droppings getting eaten by smaller bass, but nobody seems to know whether they are actually dangerous or can be transmitted to humans.

 

Any info is much appreciated.

[Becker]

I believe this is the parasite you are talking about

 

Diplostomulum sp.

Adults of most species in this genus are found in the guts of birds. Eggs are passed in the bird's feces, and snails serve as the first intermediate host. The second intermediate host (most often a fish) is infected by the cercariae, and the resulting stage is called a "diplostomulum larva" (a metacercaria). The avian definitive host is infected when it eats an infected second intermediate host.

 

I don't know much about it but I have heard that as long as you cook the fish you should be fine......But you might want to do your own research!!!

 

Becker

[youngbuck]

I have noticed too. I did not go last year but in years prior i noticed an increase in fish with them. I usually cook them plenty and remove all that i see. Ive never got sick from it but would like to know somethin about them.

[CouesWhitetail]

here is some info on the yellow grubs and black spots. Thorough cooking kills both and makes them harmless to humans.

http://www.fish.state.pa.us/images/pages/qa/fish/worms.htm

[Coach]

Wow - that was fast. I figured someone on here would have some info. Thanks.