How to Clean, Prepare and Cook Fish
Fishing is a popular pastime because it's not only relaxing, but you get to eat what you catch. Find out how to clean and prepare your fish so it's ready to enjoy.
Instructions
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1
Set up a table outside. It should be near a water hose.
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2
Rinse the fish thoroughly with fresh water. Use the tip of a spoon to scrape the scales off the fish. Then rinse again. If your fish doesn't have scales, it will need to be skinned prior to cooking.
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3
Place the fish on the table and insert a sharp knife below the gills. Cut the head off and rinse again.
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4
Slice down the center belly of the fish and open the gut to remove and discard the entrails. Rinse the fish thoroughly and remove the membranes and other unwanted particles. Pat the fish dry with paper towels.
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5
Decide whether to cook the fish whole or to fillet it. Small fish are usually cooked whole and larger fish must be filleted.
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6
Broil, pan-fry or deep-fry the fish and enjoy.
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Tips & Warnings
Overcooking fish will make it dry and tough.
Always keep fish in the refrigerator or on ice before preparing.