How to Choose Fresh Fish: A Complete Guide
Selecting fresh fish is an art that anyone can master. Whether you're shopping at your local market or ordering from Netmarine, knowing what to look for ensures you always get the best quality seafood for your table.
The Eyes Tell the Story
The first thing to check when examining a whole fish is its eyes. Fresh fish have:
- Clear, bright eyes that bulge slightly
- Black, glossy pupils that aren't cloudy
- No sunken appearance or dullness
Cloudy, sunken, or grey eyes indicate the fish is past its prime.
Check the Gills
Lift the gill cover and take a look:
- Fresh fish have bright red or pink gills
- They should be moist but not slimy
- Avoid fish with brown or grey gills
The gills are excellent freshness indicators because they deteriorate quickly after the fish leaves the water.
The Smell Test
Fresh fish should smell like the ocean – clean and briny. Be wary of:
- Strong "fishy" odors
- Ammonia-like smells
- Any unpleasant or sour scents
Remember: truly fresh fish hardly smells at all!
Examine the Flesh
For whole fish:
- The flesh should spring back when pressed
- Scales should be firmly attached and shiny
- The body should feel firm, not soft or mushy
For fillets:
- Look for moist, translucent flesh
- Avoid pieces that look dry or discolored
- Check for any gaps in the flesh
At Netmarine
When you order from Netmarine, we do the selection for you. Our expert team:
- Sources from trusted local fishermen
- Inspects every catch upon arrival
- Maintains strict cold chain protocols
- Delivers within hours of selection
Trust the professionals, and enjoy restaurant-quality seafood at home.
Have questions about selecting seafood? Contact us on WhatsApp – we're happy to help!