Channel catfish                                                                                  (Photo/wiki)

Unlike the increased duck population lately, as of July 15, 2009, in Jackson, Mississippi, the recent heavy rains have caused demise to fish.

Even though the rains finally brought desperately needed water for Mississippi’s lawns, gardens, crops, streams and lakes, they've also caused grief.

The sudden increase in water levels may cause fish kills in some ponds. During this time of year, ponds can “stratify” and form different layers. Surface waters are warmer and contain plenty of oxygen while deeper waters are cooler with little or no oxygen.

Cool heavy rains can cause the mixing of warm surface waters with cooler bottom waters, often called “pond turnover.” Oxygen levels are sometimes too low to support aquatic life and a fish kill begins.

In public waters the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality investigates the cause of fish kills and should be notified by calling 601-961-5701.

For advice on fish kills or fish management in private lakes or ponds, call the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks Fisheries Bureau at 601-432-2400 or visit www.mdwfp.com.

Paddlefish & Bass fishing