Frequently Asked Questions

Private Fishing Ponds

What do I do if my fish are dying or have sores on their bodies?

Fish can be affected by parasites, bacteria, and water molds. Just like humans, they are more likely to get ill if something stresses them, such as unusually warm or cold temperatures, overcrowding, poor nutrition, or environmental pollution. It is not usually possible to diagnose a fish disease without having the specimen at hand, and even then it can be tricky. Your county agricultural extension agent may be able to identify the problem and help you correct it. If you’re seeing large numbers of sick fish, you may want to contact a private pond consultant. The Texas Aquaculture Association maintains a list of businesses that serve private pond owners.