Fishing is a fun hobby or sport. Fishing is a popular hobby and many people catch different types of fish, including exotic or larger species. You may have wondered how to properly store fish caught from saltwater or freshwater.
There are many ways to preserve fish fresher for longer so that your fish is safe to eat and delicious when cooked.
This blog will discuss the best ways to store fish and how to improve your fishing experience.
WHY IT IS SO IMPORTANT TO PROPERLY STORE FISH BEFORE CATCHING THEM.
There are many ways to store fish once they have been caught. These storage methods can vary depending on the species and the number of fish that were caught.
If you leave your fish untreated for a long time, bacteria and other microorganisms could breed. If you don’t care enough, your fresh-catch may become spoiled or unusable.
Because fish cells are high in nutrients, spoilage can occur. These nutrients are converted by bacteria into harmful compounds, which make slime or slime-like substances. Fish spoilage can also occur when enzymes in fish cells activate. This makes them mushy food to microorganisms. Your caught fish will turn mushy and begin to smell bad.
It is important to learn more about how fish should be stored in order to prevent food poisoning and preserve fresh taste.
BE PREPARED
When you fish, preparation is key. These are some things that can help you keep your catch fresher for longer.
- A cooler with cold packs that can be insulated to store fresh-caught fish.
- Crushed ice or ice cubes
- Zip lock bags and large plastic bags.
Option 1 – Keep Them Alive
The best way to keep your fish alive is to catch them, then keep them alive until they are ready for you to cook them.
Here are some tips to help you keep your catch alive until it’s time to make a delicious meal.
- Make sure there aren’t too many fish in the same amount of water. This will encourage contagious diseases.
- To prevent jumping out, remove any shelter or cover from your tank. This will ensure that you only have one exit point.
- You should keep an eye on your fish. If they are lying in the tank, it is a sign that they are dead.
Consider putting your fish in a cooler filled with ice if they are not swimming or lying down.
OPTION2: PUT THE FRESHLY Caught FISH DIRECTLY ONTO ICE
To keep your fish fresh, quickly place them on ice. A fish can be kept in an ice slushy to chill the meat and make it easier for you to filet.
TRANSPORTING FISH FROM A FISHING CHARTER TO YOUR HOME
It’s time for you to take your fish home after your fishing trip.
Use plastic bags
Zip-lock plastic bags in sealed plastic are ideal for transporting fish filets. Make sure the bag is sealed and not open to water.
Invest In A Good Cooler Box
You might consider buying an ice chest that has plenty of ice.
KITCHEN PROCESSING AND FROZEN FISH TIPS
How long should your catch stay fresh at home?
Fish in the fridge
Fresh fish can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five consecutive days.
Wrapping fresh fish in plastic wrap, waxed papers, or foil is a great way to keep them safe. Wrap filets skin-down and make sure there are no air pockets in the wrapping material. It will be easier to thaw each filet if you separate them with a piece of waxed paper.
Place all fish bags on one shelf. Make sure that each bag is sealed tightly and doesn’t leak.
Fish in the freezer
You can freeze gutted fish by placing them on a plate or tray and covering them with plastic wrap. You should ensure that there are no air pockets in your wrapping material. This can cause ice crystals to form inside the fish.
You can also freeze individual portions of your catch. Wrap each piece in foil, waxed or plastic wrap and place them on a tray. You can then thaw the portions by putting them on the counter.
You can store your catch for up to four weeks if you set the freezer at -20 degrees Celsius. This temperature allows fish to be kept for up to four weeks, without major changes. It will also ensure that it remains fresh and flavorful.
The article was written by a professional charter captain at Salty Knots Fishing Charters with 15+ years of experience in the Gulf of Mexico. Salty Knots Fishing Charters is a local fishing charter service based out of St. Pete Beach, Florida. “We know what it takes to catch a giant trophy fish!” Salty Knots Is the best when it comes to St Pete Fishing.