Parasite kills eastern Idaho fish

Biologists are blaming a parasite for killing whitefish in the Snake River and other eastern Idaho rivers.

Idaho Fish and Game Regional Fisheries Manager Dan Garren said the parasite hasn’t turned up in any fish species beside the mountain whitefish so far, though it remains a possibility.

Garren said it shouldn’t pose any danger to fishermen as long as the fish are properly handled.

“As long as you cook it, it will kill the parasite, and you will be fine,” he said.

This is the first time the parasite has turned up in Idaho’s wild waters. It’s associated with warm water.

Biologists plan to study the extent of the fish kill. If you find any of these dead fish, you are asked to call Fish and Game at (208) 525-7290.