The full guide
Read straight through, or use the seafood notes above to keep buying, cooking and serving simple.
GUIDE TO BUYING FRESH FISH
Down the Cove
If you get the opportunity to purchase directly from the fisherman then this is by far the best way to buy your fish. You know it will be really fresh and there is a sense of satisfaction in buying direct - like buying produce from farmers markets.
Wherever you buy your fish you should find that the fish has at least been gutted. Don't be afraid to ask the person serving you to decapitate it or fillet it for you too if you'd rather not do it yourself!
Supermarket
Supermarket fish counters have a good variety like fishmongers shops. Some supermarkets get their stock from central distribution centres so in some cases a fish may have travelled long distances before arriving at your local shop. Depending on the day you may or may not find that the person behind the counter will be able to advise you.
Some supermarkets will also use fish that has previously been frozen so it is important to ask whether this is the case with the fish that you have chosen as you will not be able to refreeze it.
Local Fishmonger
The local fishmonger is a good place to purchase fresh fish. Local fishmongers source the majority of their fish directly from their local markets so ask when the fish arrived and how it has been stored.
Fishmongers are very knowledgeable about the products they sell and will be able to give recommendations and guidance. They will also be willing to prepare your fish to meet your requirements so we definitely recommend paying your local fishmonger a visit.
Common questions
- How can you tell if fish is fresh?
- Check the eyes (bright and clear, not cloudy or sunken), the gills (a bright blood-red, not brown or washed out), the skin (shiny, firm and springs back when pressed) and the smell (clean and of the sea, never strongly fishy).
- Where is the best place to buy fresh fish?
- Straight from the boat or a good local fishmonger is hard to beat — they source from local markets and will gut or fillet it for you. Supermarket counters vary, and some fish has been previously frozen, so it is always worth asking.
- Is frozen fish as good as fresh?
- Often, yes. A great deal of fish is filleted and frozen at sea while it is at its absolute peak, so it eats beautifully once defrosted. Just remember you cannot refreeze fish that was previously frozen.
- How much fish should I buy per person?
- As a rough guide allow around 150-200g of fillet per person. A larger round fish gives two good fillets, one from each side; a flatfish gives four, smaller fillets. If in doubt, ask your fishmonger.
- What does a line-caught tag mean?
- Tags from the South West Handline Fishermen's Association show the fish was line-caught and fully traceable — you can enter the tag number on their website to see who caught your fish and where.
