FWC testing for algae following fish kill at Laishley Park Marina in Punta Gorda

Dead anchovies have been washing ashore at Laishley Park Marina in Punta Gorda, creating a strong odor and raising concerns among visitors.

The small dead fish were seen floating on the surface of the water, drawing lots of birds to the marina along the Peace River. Visitors told Gulf Coast News they noticed the smell associated with the fish kill.

Officials with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission say the fish kill was reported to the agency Sunday. FWC crews took a water sample to test for toxic algal blooms. Officials are still awaiting the results of the test.

Boaters said they have seen similar occurrences during past rainy seasons.

“We get a lot of runoff from land, and that fresh water mixes with the saltwater, and depending on what’s all in that runoff, it messes with our water quality down here and especially in the summertime," said Mike Mante.

However, boaters like Mante hope the issue doesn't stem from something harmful.

"I don't want to see any green algae," Mante said. "I don't want to see any red tide."

Read FWC's full statement below:

We received a report of this fish kill on Sunday, May 31st. FWC staff responding to the report observed dead anchovies and collected a water sample for harmful algal bloom (HAB) analysis.

At this time, we are awaiting the results of that analysis. We will provide an update if additional information becomes available.

For more information about the most common causes of fish kills in Florida, visit https://myfwc.com/research/saltwater/health/fish-kills-hotline/causes/

We encourage the public to report fish kills to the FWC Fish Kill Hotline at 800-636-0511 or online at MyFWC.com/ReportFishKill