Stepwise Method

• Start by setting up your cutting board in a comfortable, well-lit area. Make sure your garbage can is within reach to make cleanup easier. Put on your fillet glove to ensure a solid grip on the fish.
• Place the fish on the fillet board with the tail clipped in place. This will help keep the fish steady while you work. If you have a particularly slippery fish, you might want to enlist a friend to hold it down, which is where my funny story begins!
• Using your sharp fillet knife, make a cut behind the gills down to the backbone. I remember the first fish I ever tried to fillet—a beautiful trout. I was so focused that I didn’t notice my cat sneaking up behind me. Just as I made that first cut, my cat leapt onto the counter, startled me, and sent my knife flying! Thankfully, nothing was harmed, except maybe my dignity.
• After making the initial cut, run your knife along the backbone towards the tail. Use smooth, gentle strokes to separate the flesh from the bones. Take your time; the more careful you are, the cleaner your fillet will be.
• Once you have your fillet, run your fingers along the flesh to feel for any small bones. Use your knife to carefully remove them. This is crucial for a pleasant dining experience—trust me, nobody wants a surprise bone in their meal.
• Flip the fish over and repeat the process on the other side. Depending on the size of the fish, you might need to adjust your technique. Remember to keep that glove on; it’s your best friend in this process!
• Once you’ve successfully filleted your fish, dispose of the scraps and scales in the garbage can. Rinse your cutting board and knife, and give yourself a pat on the back. You’ve just mastered how to fillet a fish!