How To Fillet A Largemouth Bass

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Fillet a Largemouth Bass

Filleting a largemouth bass can be a rewarding experience for any angler. Not only does it provide a delicious meal, but it also allows you to make the most of your catch. If you’re new to filleting fish, don’t worry. With the right tools and technique, you can easily fillet a largemouth bass in no time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin, make sure you have the following items:

• Sharp fillet knife
• Cutting board
• Bowl of water
• Paper towels

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

Start by placing the largemouth bass on the cutting board. Use a sharp knife to make a small incision just behind the gills. Insert the knife and make a cut down to the backbone. Be careful not to cut through the backbone.

Step 2: Remove the Fillet

Once you’ve made the initial cut, angle the knife towards the head of the fish and begin to slice along the backbone, using smooth and steady strokes. Follow the contour of the fish as you work your way down. As you near the tail, use your free hand to hold the fillet in place while you continue to cut until the fillet is completely removed.

Step 3: Repeat on the Other Side

Turn the fish over and repeat the process on the other side. Make an incision behind the gills and carefully slice along the backbone to remove the second fillet.

Step 4: Remove the Skin

With both fillets removed, it’s time to remove the skin. Lay the fillet skin-side down on the cutting board. Starting at the tail, insert the knife between the meat and the skin at a slight angle. Use a back-and-forth motion to separate the meat from the skin, working your way towards the head of the fillet. Be sure to remove any remaining rib bones as you go.

Step 5: Rinse and Pat Dry

Once the skin is removed, rinse the fillets under cold water to remove any remaining scales or debris. Pat the fillets dry with paper towels to prepare them for cooking or storage.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve successfully filleted your largemouth bass, you can use the fillets to create a variety of delicious dishes, from pan-seared bass to grilled bass tacos. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t flawless. With time and experience, you’ll become a pro at filleting largemouth bass.

Happy fishing and bon appétit!