Larval eels are called leptocephalus larvae and move via oceanic currents. Fishing for eel is unimportant in Iowa, and most of those caught are taken incidental to other species. They are taken by commercial fishermen from the Mississippi, but the harvest each year is usually less than 2,000 pounds. The flesh of eel, while very rich, is said to be delicious. It is sometimes prepared by pan-frying but is more often smoked, pickled or jellied.
Smoked eel is by far the most accepted and is considered a delicacy.
There is little demand for eels in this section of the country.