Recent catch of walleye on Bull Shoals Lake results in report of Sandy Flesh disease

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Photo courtesy of Arkansas Game and Fish Commission

Anglers are encouraged to be mindful when fishing for walleye on area waters. There was a recent report of a walleye being caught on Bull Shoals Lake, and the anglers later discovered it had Sandy Flesh disease.

This is not a new issue being dealt with by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. There were reports of Sandy Flesh disease from 2021 and a couple more before then.

Game and Fish District 2 Fisheries Management Biologist Joe Chilton says Sandy Flesh is a rare degenerative muscle condition only affecting species in the perch family, including walleye and yellow perch.

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The cause of Sandy Flesh disease is currently not known or understood. It is believed to be associated with a combination of genetic factors and environmental stressors.

Chilton says Bull Shoals Lake is not the only waterway where Sandy Flesh has been detected.

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While Sandy Flesh disease has not been known to be transmitted to humans, Chilton advises against consuming any fish that may have the condition.

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Anyone with questions or who has caught a walleye with Sandy Flesh disease can call 870-404-2159 or 479-223-1269.

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