Parasites in Smallmouth filets?

[jfish]

Did a two day float over the 4th on the Rapidan and decided to take 5 nicer fish to a dinner party along the bank that evening. They weren't monsters but nice filleting size. As I skinned the filets I notice several yellow "BB" size balls in the flesh? They were butter yellow and randomly scattered. I cut one out and upon closer inspection is began to crawl . Not believing my eyes I cut several more out and they all were worm like parasites. Four of the five fish had them with the smallest fish not showing any indication of the infestation. The skin shows no sign of the worms but once under the skin they were clearly present. Needless to say it killed my appetite and I selected another dish for the evening meal.

Three weeks ago I did the same trip and we polished off about 8 nice fish on the first evening. None were filets so I am sure I got MORE that evening than I ordered????

Is this something commonly found with smallmouth, that river or only during the warmer months?

I think I will just carry flounder filets from now on......

[CaptMikeStarrett]

Those worms are common in freshwater fish that eat snails. Very interesting life cycle too.
Harmless when cooked BTW.
Here is a link.
http://www.fish.state.pa.us/images/p...fish/worms.htm

Capt Mike

[jfish]

Thanks for the link..... Although I am sure I have eaten plenty I have lost much of the taste for smallies...