How to Clean Northern Pike Fish: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cleaning fish can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to it. However, with the right techniques and tools, cleaning northern pike fish can become an easy and rewarding process. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through each step of cleaning northern pike fish, from preparing your workspace to filleting the fish properly.
Gather Your Tools:
Before starting the cleaning process, make sure you have all the necessary tools on hand. These include a sharp fillet knife, cutting board or fillet table with a clamp or spike to secure the fish, gloves for better grip and hygiene purposes, pliers or tweezers for removing bones easily, and a garbage bag or container for discarding waste.
Prepare Your Workspace:
Find a clean and well-lit area where you can comfortably work on your catch. If possible, set up your cutting board or fillet table near a water source for convenience. Ensure that there is enough space around you so that you can move freely while handling the fish.
Cleanse the Fish:
Prioritize cleanliness by rinsing off any dirt or debris from the outside of your northern pike. Thoroughly wash it under cold running water to eliminate any potential bacteria present on its skin surface.
Safety First – Remove Sharp Edges:
To ensure safety while working with knives during this process wear cut-resistant gloves if available. Start by using pliers or tweezers to remove any sharp spines located near their dorsal fin as these could cause injuries during handling.
Fillet Like A Pro:
To begin filleting your cleaned northern pike, lay it flat on the cutting board or fillet table with its belly facing upward. Using a sharp fillet knife, make an incision starting just behind the fish’s gills and continue along the spine towards its tail.
Remove The Fillet:
Gently separate the flesh from the backbone by sliding your knife underneath while keeping it parallel to the spine. Work your way slowly towards the tail, applying steady pressure but being careful not to cut through or remove any useful portions of meat.
Eliminate Rib Bones:
With one side of your northern pike filleted, you will notice small rib bones near the center of each fillet. Use pliers or tweezers to grasp these bones firmly and pull them out in a swift motion, ensuring that they don’t break off and leave any fragments behind.
Clean Second Side & Skin:
Repeat steps for cleaning as described above on this second side of your northern pike. After removing both fillets, rinse them under cold water again to wash away any lingering scales or bits that may have remained during earlier stages.
In Conclusion
Cleaning Northern Pike Fish may seem intimidating at first but armed with proper knowledge and tools, anyone can master this skill. Remember to take precautions for safety such as wearing gloves when handling knives and using pliers/tweezers for bone removal. Following our step-by-step guide will help you achieve perfectly cleaned fish every time! With practice and experience, you’ll become more efficient in cleaning northern pike fish like a pro!