Q&A for How to Fillet a Fish

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  • Question
    Where do I cut a fish when I gut it?
    Michael Reynolds
    Professional Fishing Instructor
    Michael Reynolds is a Professional Fishing Instructor and the Owner of Long Beach, California Fishing Lessons by Michael Reynolds. In his over 40 years of fishing experience, Michael has become very knowledgeable about the variety of fishing methods and techniques. He is passionate about sharing his knowledge with beginners to experienced anglers. Michael has been guiding and teaching fishing for over five years and is licensed and bonded with the Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW).
    Professional Fishing Instructor
    Expert Answer
    Start at the back of the fish by the tail and slice up along the belly up to the gills.
  • Question
    Can I use butter when cooking a fillet fish?
    Community Answer
    Yes, but there are better options, as dairy and fish don’t mix well. Consider olive oil, it is hailed as a perfect base when seasoning/cooking fish. Certain fish are good for frying, others are best grilled. Do some research on the fish you have.
  • Question
    Does taking the skin off make a fish a fillet?
    Community Answer
    No. Fillet refers to the slab of meat on either side of the center bone. A fish fillet can have skin.
  • Question
    What do you mean by "scale the fish"?
    Sugavage
    Community Answer
    Scrape off the scales with a knife. Scales are the little flaky things on the skin of the fish.
  • Question
    How do I fillet a catfish?
    Community Answer
    You can fillet a catfish the same way you would fillet any other fish.
  • Question
    Will this same fillet method work for common carp?
    Community Answer
    Yes. Just be sure to scale and gut it first so you're not poisoned by the organs.
  • Question
    Do I gut the fish first?
    Community Answer
    No. Cut the fillets off the fish on both sides with a fillet knife (thin blade, razor edge), then discard the remainder of the fish.
  • Question
    Should I start cutting at the head and pull the knife down to the tail or the other way around?
    Community Answer
    Start at the head, then make your way down to the tail. Try to keep the cut as even as possible.
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