Frying fish is a classic American dish that dates back centuries. The art of frying fish is to select the right type of fish that has a firm flesh and can hold up against the frying process.
In this post, we will discuss some of the best fish for frying, including Mullet, Red Snapper, Whiting, Channel Catfish, Flounder, Grouper, Black Drum, Red Drum, Sheepshead, Sand Trout, Cod, Blue Catfish, Flathead Catfish, Carppie, Blue Gill Bream, Triple Tail, Largemouth Bass, Spade Fish, Croaker, Snook, Pompano, Gray Triggerfish, Greater Amberjack, and Hogfish.
Deep fried fish is a dish in which fish is coated in batter or breadcrumbs and then deep-fried until crispy and golden brown. This cooking method results in a crunchy exterior and moist and tender interior.
Deep fried fish is often served with a variety of sides, such as french fries, coleslaw, hush puppies, and tartar sauce. It is a popular dish in many countries and is often enjoyed as a comfort food or as a part of a traditional meal.
However, it is important to note that deep fried foods should be consumed in moderation as they are high in calories and can be unhealthy if consumed regularly.
If you want to learn how to fry fish like a pro check out our complete guide and you’ll be hosting an awesome fish fry in no time. Now lets look into some of the best fish for frying!
1.) Mullet
Mullet is a type of fish that is known for its firm flesh and mild flavor. It is a popular fish for frying because it holds up well against the frying process.
Mullet has a low fat content and an amazing flavor when fresh, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter taste. It can be fried in a variety of ways, including pan-fried, deep-fried, or even grilled.
Mullet has a rich history here on the Gulf Coast and is my favorite fish on the list. If you love mullet just as much as I do, check out our awesome eat more mullet hats.
2.) Red Snapper
Red Snapper is a type of fish that is commonly found in the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean Sea, and along the southeastern coast of the United States.
It is a popular fish for both commercial and recreational fishing, as well as for cooking and culinary purposes.
Red snapper is a type of fish that is known for its firm texture and rich flavor. It is a popular fish for frying because it holds up well against the frying process.
Red Snapper has a high fat content, which gives it a rich flavor that is perfect for frying. It can be fried in a variety of ways, including pan-fried, deep-fried, or even grilled.
3.) Whiting (Ground Mullet)
Whiting, also known as Gulf Kingfish and Ground Mullet, is found throughout the Gulf Coast. Whiting is another favorite fish to fry on the Gulf Coast.
Whiting is a type of fish that is known for its delicate flavor and flaky texture. It is a popular fish for frying because it is easy to prepare and has a mild taste that is perfect for those who prefer a lighter taste.
Whiting can be fried in a variety of ways, including pan-fried, deep-fried, or even grilled.
Check out our article on 21 of the best fish to eat from the gulf coast to discover some new fish you need to try fried.
4.) Channel Catfish
Channel Catfish is a type of freshwater fish that is native to North America. It is a popular fish for both commercial and recreational fishing, as well as for cooking and culinary purposes.
Channel Catfish is a type of fish that is known for its firm flesh and mild flavor. It is a popular fish for frying because it holds up well against the frying process.
Channel Catfish has a low fat content and a mild taste, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter taste.
It is commonly used in dishes such as catfish po’ boys, fried catfish , and catfish nuggets with various seasonings and sauces.
In terms of nutrition, Channel Catfish is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for heart health and brain function.
5.) Flounder
Flounder has a distinctive, flattened body that is typically oval-shaped, with both eyes on the same side of the head.
It has a white, firm flesh that is mild in flavor and delicate in texture, making it a popular choice for a variety of cooking methods, including baking, frying, grilling, and poaching.
It is a popular fish for frying because it is easy to prepare and has a mild taste that is perfect for those who prefer a lighter taste.
In terms of nutrition, flounder is a good source of protein and is low in fat, making it a healthy choice for those looking to incorporate more seafood into their diet.
It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, phosphorus, and selenium.
Overall, Flounder is a delicious and versatile fish that is enjoyed by many people around the world. Whether baked, fried, or grilled, it is a tasty addition to any seafood lover’s menu.
6.) Grouper
Grouper is a type of fish that belongs to the Serranidae family. These fish are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, and they are highly prized as both a food and game fish.
There are several different species of grouper, ranging in size from a few pounds to several hundred pounds, and they come in a variety of colors and patterns.
Grouper is a type of fish that is known for its firm texture and rich flavor. It is a popular fish for frying because it holds up well against the frying process.
Grouper has a high fat content, which gives it a rich flavor that is perfect for frying.
*Interesting fact-When people fry fish they typically host a fish fry, which is a party in many small communities that center around serving fried fish that is local from that area. If you would like to know more about what a fish fry is check it out here.
7.) Black Drum (Puppy Drum)
Black drum has a low fat content and a mild taste, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter taste.
Black Drum are found in the Western Atlantic Ocean, from Massachusetts to the Gulf of Mexico, and they are also commonly found in brackish estuaries and bays.
They are a slow-growing, long-lived fish that can reach lengths of up to 5 feet and weigh over 100 pounds. However, smaller black drums are also common and are often referred to as “Puppy Drum,”
I only prefer to eat small black drum (Puppy Drum) rather than the larger black drum.
8.) Red Drum (Red Fish)
Red drum is a type of fish that is known for its firm texture and rich flavor. Red drum has a high fat content , which gives it a rich flavor that is perfect for frying.
Red drum, also known as redfish or channel bass, is a species of saltwater fish that is commonly found in the western Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, and southern coast of the United States.
Red drum are named for their reddish-bronze coloration on their backs, which fades to a silver-white on their bellies. They have a distinctive black spot near their tail, which is believed to help confuse predators.
Red drum can grow up to 60 inches (152 cm) in length and weigh up to 90 pounds (41 kg), although most fish caught by anglers are between 18 and 30 inches (46-76 cm).
They are a popular game fish due to their strong fighting ability and tasty flesh.
9.) Sheepshead
Sheepshead is a type of fish that is known for its firm texture and mild, sweet flavor. Sheepshead has a low fat content and a mild, sweet taste, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter taste.
Sheepshead is a species of fish that is commonly found in the coastal waters of the Atlantic Ocean, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.
They are a member of the porgy family and are named for their prominent teeth, which resemble those of a sheep.
Sheepshead are typically found in shallow waters around reefs, pilings, and other structures, where they feed on a variety of invertebrates such as crabs, barnacles, and shrimp.
They are known for their strong jaws, which allow them to crush the shells of their prey. Sheepshead can grow up to 30 inches (76 cm) in length and weigh up to 20 pounds (9 kg).
10.) Sand Trout (White Trout)
Sand trout, also known as the white trout, is a type of fish that is commonly found in the Gulf of Mexico and the western Atlantic Ocean. They belong to the family Sciaenidae, which includes drum and croaker species.
White Trout is a type of fish that is known for its firm texture and mild, sweet flavor. It is a popular fish for frying because it holds up well against the frying process.
White Trout has a low fat content and a mild, sweet taste, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter taste.
They are usually found in shallow, brackish waters, and feed on small invertebrates such as shrimp and crabs. White Trout are valued for their delicate flavor and can be caught using traditional fishing methods or with artificial lures.
White Trout are also important to the local ecosystem, providing food for larger fish and birds.
11.) Cod
Cod is a type of fish that is known for its flaky texture and mild flavor. It is a popular fish for frying because it is easy to prepare and has a mild taste that is perfect for those who prefer a lighter taste.
Cod is a type of fish that is widely distributed throughout the cold waters of the North Atlantic Ocean and the Arctic Ocean.
They are a popular commercial and recreational fish, and are known for their delicate, flaky white flesh.
Cod is a versatile fish that can be prepared in a variety of ways, including baked, grilled, or fried. It is also commonly used in fish and chips, a popular dish in the United Kingdom and other countries.
Overall, Cod is a valuable and important species in both the marine ecosystem and the fishing industry.
12.) Blue Catfish
Blue catfish is a type of fish that is known for its firm texture and rich flavor. Blue Catfish have a high fat content, which gives it a rich flavor that is perfect for frying.
Blue Catfish is a species of freshwater fish that is native to the Mississippi, Missouri, and Ohio river basins in North America.
They are named for their blue-gray coloration and are one of the largest species of catfish in North America, with some individuals reaching over 100 pounds.
Blue Catfish are popular among anglers and are highly sought after for their sport and food value. They are known for their strong fighting ability, making them a challenging catch.
They are also popular as a food fish, with a mild, slightly sweet flavor and firm, white flesh.
13.) Flathead Catfish
Flathead catfish have a high fat content, which gives it a rich flavor that is perfect for frying. Flathead catfish is a type of fish that is known for its firm texture and rich flavor.
Flathead catfish are also relatively large fish, and they are commonly caught in freshwater rivers and lakes throughout the central and eastern United States.
When preparing flathead catfish, it is important to remove any fat or red meat from the fillets before cooking, as these parts can have a stronger taste that may not be as appealing.
14.) Crappie
Crappie is a type of fish that is known for its delicate flavor and flaky texture. It is a popular fish for frying because it is easy to prepare and has a mild taste that is perfect for those who prefer a lighter taste.
Crappie is a popular fish for frying because of its mild, sweet taste and firm texture. When fried, the outer layer becomes crispy and golden brown, while the flesh inside remains tender and juicy.
Additionally, Crappie fillets are usually thin, making them easy to cook and ensuring that they cook evenly.
15.) Bluegill Bream
Bluegill, also known as bream, is a popular fish for frying because of its mild, sweet flavor and delicate texture. When fried, the outer layer becomes crispy and golden brown, while the flesh inside remains tender and juicy.
Additionally, Bluegill fillets are usually thin, making them easy to cook and ensuring that they cook evenly.
Another reason why Bluegill is good for frying is that it has a moderate fat content, which adds to the flavor and texture of the cooked fish.
The fat helps to keep the flesh moist and tender, while also contributing to the crispy texture of the fried coating.
Bluegill is also a popular fish for frying because it is widely available in many freshwater bodies throughout North America. This makes it a convenient and affordable option for many people.
Overall, the combination of flavor, texture, and availability makes Bluegill a popular choice for frying.
16.) Triple Tail (Black Fish)
Triple Tail are typically found in warm coastal waters around the world, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Gulf of Mexico .
They are known for their distinctive, triangular-shaped dorsal fin that is divided into three sections, hence their name. Their bodies are generally flat and deep, with a rounded shape and a blackish or grayish coloration.
These fish are highly valued as a food fish and are sought after by anglers due to their large size and delicious flavor. They can grow up to 40 inches in length and weigh up to 50 pounds, although most catches are typically smaller than this.
Triple Tail is a type of fish that is known for its firm texture and mild, sweet flavor. It is a popular fish for frying because it holds up well against the frying process.
Triple Tail has a low fat content and a mild, sweet taste, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter taste.
17.) Largemouth Bass
Largemouth bass is a popular freshwater game fish that is found throughout North America. While many anglers practice catch-and-release, it is also possible to eat largemouth bass.
The flesh of largemouth bass is white and flaky, with a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It can be cooked using a variety of methods.
It’s worth noting that largemouth bass can contain high levels of mercury, which can be harmful to human health in large amounts.
Therefore, it’s generally recommended that people limit their consumption of largemouth bass to one or two servings per month, particularly for pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children.
It’s also important to check local advisories and regulations for any specific guidelines on eating largemouth bass from a particular area.
18.) Spade Fish
Spadefish are highly prized for their meat, which is firm, white, and flaky with a mild, sweet flavor. Spadefish are a popular game fish found in the Gulf of Mexico.
They are known for their distinctive shape and black-and-white coloring, with a deep, compressed body that is nearly circular in shape. Spadefish are also known for their sharp spines, which can be dangerous if not handled properly.
Spade fish have a low fat content and a mild, sweet taste, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter taste.
19.) Croaker
Croaker are popular with anglers due to their abundance, good fighting ability, and delicious taste. The flesh of croaker is white and flaky, with a mild, sweet flavor that is similar to other popular white fish such as flounder or cod.
Croaker are typically small to medium-sized fish, ranging in size from around 8 inches to 18 inches in length, depending on the species.
They are known for their elongated, silver-colored bodies and large, underslung mouths. They are usually caught using bait such as shrimp, squid, or cut bait.
20.) Snook
Snook is a popular game fish found in the Gulf of Mexico and throughout the coastal waters of Florida. There are several species of snook, including the common snook the fat snook.
Snook are known for their elongated, silver-colored bodies and large, sloping forehead. They are powerful swimmers and can grow up to 4 feet in length and weigh up to 50 pounds.
They are often caught using live bait such as shrimp or pinfish, as well as lures such as jigs and topwater plugs.
Snook are highly prized by anglers due to their challenging fight and delicious taste. The flesh of snook is white and flaky, with a mild, sweet flavor that is similar to other popular white fish such as sea bass or redfish.
It is recommended to remove the skin before frying as the skin has a soapy taste.
21.) Pompano
Pompano is a popular game fish found in the Gulf of Mexico and throughout the coastal waters of the southeastern United States. There are several species of pompano, including the Florida pompano and the African pompano.
Pompano are known for their sleek, silver-colored bodies and large, forked tails. They are fast swimmers and can grow up to 2 feet in length and weigh up to 8 pounds.
They are often caught using live bait such as shrimp or sand fleas, as well as lures such as jigs and soft plastics.
Pompano are highly prized by anglers due to their challenging fight and delicious taste. The flesh of pompano is white and flaky, with a delicate, sweet flavor that is prized by seafood lovers.
22.) Gray Triggerfish
Gray triggerfish is a type of fish that is known for its firm texture and mild, sweet flavor. Gray triggerfish are a species of fish found in the Gulf of Mexico and along the eastern coast of the United States.
They are named for the sharp spines located on their dorsal fins, which can “trigger” into place to help protect them from predators.
Gray triggerfish have a stocky, compressed body and can grow up to 20 inches in length and weigh up to 12 pounds.
They are typically gray or brown in color and have distinctive markings on their fins and body. They are often found near reefs, wrecks, and other underwater structures.
23.) Greater Amberjack
Greater Amberjack is a species of fish found in the Gulf of Mexico, along the eastern coast of the United States, and in other warm waters around the world.
They are a popular game fish among recreational anglers due to their size, strength, and fighting ability.
Greater Amberjack has a streamlined, silver-colored body with a dark stripe that runs from their nose to their dorsal fin.
They can grow up to 6 feet in length and weigh up to 160 pounds. They are typically found in deep waters near offshore structures such as reefs, wrecks, and oil platforms.
Greater Amberjack are often caught using live bait such as small fish, squid, or crabs, as well as artificial lures such as jigs and spoons.
They are prized for their firm, white flesh, which is mild in flavor and has a meaty texture.
24.) Hogfish
Hogfish is a type of fish that is known for its firm texture, pearly white meat and mild, sweet flavor. Hogfish are a species of reef fish found in the western Atlantic Ocean, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.
They are known for their unique appearance and delicious meat, which makes them a popular game fish among anglers and a prized catch among seafood lovers.
Hogfish are typically found around coral reefs and rocky areas, where they use their long snouts to root around in the sand and rocks for small crustaceans and other invertebrates.
They are known for their striking coloration, which includes a bright pink body, white belly, and a black spot behind their dorsal fin. As they mature, males develop a protruding snout that gives them a distinctive “hog-like” appearance.
Hogfish can grow up to 3 feet in length and weigh up to 20 pounds, but the average size is around 2-4 pounds.
They are often caught using live bait such as shrimp or crabs, as well as lures such as jigs and soft plastics. Hogfish are prized for their sweet, delicate meat.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best fish for frying, there are many options available.
Some of the best fish for frying include mullet, red snapper, whiting, channel catfish, flounder, grouper, black drum, red drum, sheepshead, sand trout, cod, blue catfish, flathead catfish, crappie, bluegill bream, triple tail, largemouth bass, spade fish, croaker, snook, Pompano, gray triggerfish, greater amberjack, and hogfish.
Each of these fish has its own unique flavor and texture, and can be prepared in a variety of ways, making them versatile options for any cooking style.
Whether you prefer a delicate and light taste or a rich and bold flavor, there is a fish on this list that will suit your taste buds.
When preparing fish for frying, it’s important to choose fresh, high-quality fish and to properly clean and prepare it before cooking. With the right techniques and a little bit of practice, you can create delicious fried fish dishes that will satisfy any appetite.
