Dead fish affecting Collier County businesses

Dead fish floating just feet away from businesses in Naples are causing a smelly mess. This is happening at the Venetian Bay near Gulf Shore Boulevard.

The dead fish along the bay is being linked to red tide.

Some people describe these dead fish not only as an eyesore but also disgusting.

“You can smell it you can taste it," Ann Taylor said. “It's not very pleasant.”

Taylor lived along the Venetian Bay for over 30 years.

"Thank God it's hot and we have our windows closed because we could smell this in our homes if we didn't," she said.

She said the rotting fish is close to her home and they seem to suddenly come out of nowhere.

“That’s the first time they’ve been by the bay next to those lovely restaurants,” Taylor said. "People aren't going to want to sit outside and have drinks."

Mariso Carrozzo, The Conservancy’s senior environmental specialist, said the decomposing fish might have popped up due to a switch in currents or a number of other factors.

“It could be where the red tide is more severe at any given time,” Carrozzo said.

Adam Balavender, a general manager at M Waterfront Grille, said the stench has changed a preference in seating.

"Our outside dining has definitely been affected," Balavender said. "There were anywhere from 2,000- 5,000 dead fish in the bay."

Not only that, but there's also been an impact on business over the weekend.

"The locals that live in this area were trying to get out of this area and get away from the smell for a little bit," said Balavender. “We didn't see as many locals as we normally do."

Many people who live along the Venetian Bay agree with Taylor.

"I just hope mother nature controls the red tide and doesn't send it here so often,” Balavender said.

Some effects of red tide can be very problematic, causing respiratory problems.

To find a list of health problems caused by red tide click here.