99% of the time, I am a catch and release angler.
A few times per year though, I like to take a few home. With trout season upon us, that time is now.
Today, we are going to take a look at a few products that will make cleaning your fish, and yourself, much easier and more enjoyable.
Let’s dive in with the first essential piece of equipment, a place to clean your catch.
Folding Processing Table
If you’re thinking, “Why not just clean the fish in the kitchen,” then you haven’t met my wife. Yes, she loves fresh fish, but she doesn’t want to see or smell the process of getting to the meal!
If you’re in that boat with me, then you absolutely need a processing table.
The folding processing table available from Bass Pro is great. It’s easy to fold up and store out of the way, and it keeps the mess out of the house. It features a garden hose hook up, so you have a fully functional faucet. This is a must have.
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Fillet Gloves
Fillet knives are pretty adept at cutting things. The problem is, they don’t discriminate. They will slice your finger every bit as promptly as your catch.
I’m stating the obvious here, but most people don’t take the proper precautions. I prefer the ounce of prevention approach, and use steel yarn gloves. They are cheap and effective, and you should definitely have a pair.
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Fish Scaler
While I realize there is more than one way to scale a fish, I prefer cheap and easy.
Coming in at less than 2 bucks, this handy little fish scaler is the way to go. Not much more to say here—grab one.
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Fillet Knives
There are thousands of choices in the cutlery world. I’ve seen knives ranging from a few bucks to a few hundred.
I prefer to stay in the middle of the road, and luckily you can do so and still get great quality.
Dexter Russell® makes a great set. They hold an edge, feel great in the hand, and look pretty snazzy too!
You could spend a lot less, and you could spend a lot more. Luckily, you don’t need to.
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The Odor Bar
When the job is done, and the fish are cooking, you have to get the smell off. Fishy hands and a cold beer do not mix.
Now, this might seem like magic or a scam, but it isn’t.
I couldn’t believe that a stainless steel bar could remove odors from your hands. I’m not going to pretend to know how this thing works, but it does. Pick up a pair and see for yourself.
[cjwizard],,1475547+,,,,,,,120829053231102,,,[/cjwizard]
Time For A Fish Fry!
There’s the quick list of must haves.
Now get out there, catch a few, and fry them up. If you need some tips on cleaning your fish, check out our post here.
See ya on the water…