High Summer Temperatures Stress Fish

Did you know warmer water holds less oxygen? With an Extreme Heat Warning issued by the National Weather Service lasting throughout the weekend, our lakes are feeling the heat. Higher temps and low levels of dissolved oxygen can lead to fish mortality events, or mass die-offs due to a lake's stressful conditions. Already in 2026 there have been 212 reports of fish kills spanning 102 waterbodies across the state. If you think you spot a fish mortality event, you can report it to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) using their online reporting tool. Reporting a fish kill helps inform state agencies of the die-off event, allowing them to evaluate the event in a timely manner and determine the appropriate response. 

The Minnesota DNR released a statement today with more information on what to do if you see a fish mortality event. Follow this link to be redirected to the Minnesota DNR news release.