What's With All The Dead Fish At Lake Of The Ozarks? Here's What Scientists Say Is Happening

LAKE OF THE OZARKS, Mo. — It's getting fishy out there.

Over the past week, an increasing number of boaters have reported seeing hundreds of dead fish in Lake of the Ozarks. The concentration seems to be between Bagnell Dam and the 5MM. It's a major fish die-off, and some folks have been concerned. Lake Expo spoke to the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), and scientists there say these occurrences are most often natural and there is no reason for concern.

The MDC says it has looked into several reports of the fish kill event at Bagnell Dam to the 5MM, and their investigation revealed that this was likely a natural event. The possible culprit is a lack of dissolved oxygen, not uncommon in low-current areas of the Lake during seasons of drought (the Lake area is currently in an extreme drought). The drop in oxygen kills the fish. While low oxygen levels in the water can be deadly for fish, they pose no environmental threat to humans.

Boaters' reports of dead fish over the past week coincided with the heavy rainfall from Wednesday night, July 12, where areas of the Lake received 1.5" or more. The MDC says rainfall can end up flushing the dead fish out of the oxygen-starved creeks or coves, downstream into the Lake.

Every year, MDC handles about 100 fish kills and other water quality events that pose a threat to fish, wildlife, and recreation. And while pollution, chlorinated drinking water, or chemical spills are always concerns, MDC says approximately 75-80% of fish kills are caused by natural events.

Although it’s not an attractive sight, the MDC says it's best to let nature run its course to allow nutrients back into the ecosystem. For any worried anglers, living fish in the area are still safe to catch and eat.

Report a fish kill event here.