Urban recreational fisheries: Implications for public health in metro-Phoenix

Lakes and ponds across metro-Phoenix primarily provide recreational opportunities for fishing, as swimming and other uses are generally not permitted. Given these designated uses, many of the lakes and ponds are monitored for nutrients and signs of eutrophication, but not necessarily for heavy metals or organic pollutants that can be transferred over time to recreationally-caught fish. This may be a concern considering the practice of many Phoenix residents who catch and consume fish from urban waterways. In this pilot study, samples of commonly stocked fish species (e.g. trout, bluegill, bass and catfish) and resident fish (sunfish) were collected through standard recreational fishing practices and analyzed for both metal and organic contaminants. Results showed varying concentrations of pesticides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and phthalates, as well as several potentially toxic metals. These findings may have long-term public health consequences, as approximately 60% of urban anglers have reported eating the fish they catch. Results from this study highlight the need for regular urban water and stocked fish monitoring, improved regulations to protect urban surface water quality, and creation of a comprehensive and standardized protocol for urban fish consumption advisories.