Walleye

Sushi name(s): None
Walleye

Walleye

At a glance

Eco-rating Mercury Omega-3s
+-Walleye (US)
OK
Elevated

DETAILS ABOUT WALLEYE

Walleye is found in lakes across North America and has been commercially fished in the Great Lakes since the 1800s. The majority of walleye cold in the U.S. comes from Lake Eerie.
+-Walleye (Canada)
Worst
Elevated

DETAILS ABOUT WALLEYE

Walleye caught in the Lakes Manitoba, Winnipeg and Winnipegosis, Canada, with gill nets is considered a “worst” choice because the population is depleted and it's still being overfished.

These ratings are provided in partnership with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch® program, © 1999-2018 Monterey Bay Aquarium Foundation

Recommended servings per month

Contaminant Men Women Kids 6-12 Kids 0-5
Walleye (Canada) Mercury, *PCBs 2 2 1 1
Walleye (US) Mercury, *PCBs 2 2 1 1

This chart shows how much can safely be eaten each MONTH (assuming no other contaminated fish is consumed). The advice is based on EPA guidance and the latest mercury data. More on contaminants »

* This fish has been shown to have elevated PCB levels in some places. Please visit the EPA’s National Listing of Fish Advisories to check for any consumption alerts in your area.
Eco details: 
  • As with many great lakes species, walleye populations have declined due to overfishing, habitat damage, and non native species that both compete for food or prey on walleye.
  • This species is naturally resilient to fishing pressure and although it has suffered a few drastic declines, it is now considered to be rebuilding.