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December 18, 20247 Tips for Buying Fresh Fish at a Seafood Market
Fresh fish is a culinary delight, whether you’re preparing a simple weeknight dinner or a gourmet feast. However, buying fresh fish can be intimidating, especially if you’re not familiar with the process or what to look for. This guide provides seven detailed tips to help you select the best fish, along with answers to common questions and a list of popular fish names in the U.S. to make your shopping experience easier.

1. How Do You Know if Fish Is Fresh?
Look for Clear, Bright Eyes:
A fresh fish’s eyes should be clear, not cloudy or sunken. Bright eyes indicate freshness, while dull, milky eyes suggest the fish has been sitting for a while.
Check the Gills:
Fresh fish will have bright red or pink gills, indicating oxygen-rich blood and proper storage. Brown or grayish gills are a sign of age.
Feel the Flesh:
Fresh fish should have firm, elastic flesh. When pressed, it should bounce back rather than leave an indentation.
Pro Tip: Ask the vendor if you can inspect the gills and touch the fish to check for firmness before purchase.
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Inspecting gills for freshness
2. What Should Fresh Fish Smell Like?
Fresh fish should have a clean, ocean-like smell. It shouldn’t smell overly fishy, sour, or like ammonia.
Key Smelling Tips:
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Hold the fish close to your nose. A pleasant, briny aroma is a good sign.
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Avoid fish with any off-putting or overly pungent odors.
Avoid Processed Odors:
Fish treated with preservatives can have chemical smells. Always check for natural, oceanic scents.
Pro Tip: A fishmonger who proudly displays their fish’s freshness will often encourage you to smell it. If they hesitate, proceed cautiously.
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3. Inspect the Skin and Scales
Fresh fish will have shiny, metallic skin with tightly adhered scales. The skin should appear moist and not dry or slimy.
Things to Check:
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Run your fingers over the fish’s body—scales should not flake off easily.
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Look for vibrant coloring on the skin, as dull or faded spots indicate aging.
Check for Damage:
Examine the fish for cuts or bruises, as these can affect the quality and freshness.
Pro Tip: Whole fish often provides better visual clues of freshness than fillets, which can hide imperfections.
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4. Ask the Right Questions
Don’t be shy about asking the fishmonger questions. Knowledgeable vendors will be happy to share details about the fish they sell.
Important Questions to Ask:
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Where was the fish caught?
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Is the fish wild-caught or farmed?
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How was the fish stored or transported?
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What’s the best way to cook this type of fish?
Additional Inquiries:
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Is this fish sustainable? (If you prioritize environmentally friendly choices.)
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How long has the fish been on display?
Pro Tip: Vendors who can’t provide clear answers may not prioritize quality. Choose vendors who are transparent about their sourcing and storage practices.
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5. Know Popular Fish Names in the U.S.
Familiarizing yourself with common fish names can make your shopping easier and help you spot fresh options. Here are some popular ones:
Saltwater Fish:
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Salmon (Atlantic, Sockeye, Coho)
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Tuna (Yellowfin, Albacore)
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Halibut
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Cod (Atlantic, Pacific)
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Snapper (Red Snapper, Yellowtail Snapper)
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Swordfish
Freshwater Fish:
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Catfish
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Trout (Rainbow, Steelhead)
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Perch
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Bass (Largemouth, Striped)
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Walleye
Shellfish:
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Shrimp (Gulf, Tiger)
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Crab (Blue, Dungeness, King)
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Lobster (Maine, Rock)
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Clams, Mussels, and Oysters (East Coast and West Coast varieties)
Tips for Specific Fish:
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Salmon: Look for vibrant orange flesh and a smooth texture.
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Tuna: High-quality tuna will have a deep red hue without discoloration.
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6. Buy Fish on the Right Day
Fresh fish often arrives at seafood markets early in the week. Knowing when to shop can ensure you get the freshest catch.
Best Days to Shop:
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Tuesday through Friday: Fish is usually freshest as shipments arrive early in the week.
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Avoid Mondays: Many markets sell leftover fish from the weekend.
Pro Tip: Ask your fishmonger about their delivery schedule for the best timing. Knowing the delivery days for specific fish types can further enhance your selection.
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7. Handle and Store Fish Properly
Freshness doesn’t end at the market—proper handling and storage are essential to preserving quality.
Tips for Storing Fish:
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Place fish on ice or refrigerate immediately after purchase.
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Store fish in an airtight container to prevent odor transfer.
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Use within 1-2 days or freeze for longer storage.
Freezing Techniques:
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Wrap fish tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
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Label and date your fish to track usage.
Cooking Tips for Preserved Fish:
If using frozen fish, thaw it gradually in the refrigerator to maintain texture and flavor.
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Conclusion: Shop Smart for Fresh Fish
Buying fresh fish doesn’t have to be daunting. By following these tips and asking the right questions, you can confidently select high-quality fish for any meal. Whether you’re shopping at a bustling seafood market or ordering from a supplier like Delivisor, being informed is the key to success.
Visit Delivisor.com for hassle-free seafood shopping with guaranteed freshness and delivery convenience. Say goodbye to guesswork and enjoy the finest seafood right at your doorstep!