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Writer's pictureIvan Tsar

The benefits of fishing

Fishing, skinning, and cooking fish are essential survival skills that not only provide a sustainable food source but also offer numerous health benefits. This article will guide you through the basics of catching, preparing, and cooking various types of fish, along with highlighting their nutritional advantages.


1. Fishing Techniques

Freshwater Fishing

Rod and Reel: Ideal for catching species like trout, bass, and catfish. Use bait such as worms, minnows, or artificial lures.


Fly Fishing: Effective in rivers and streams for catching salmon and trout. It involves using a lightweight lure, or "fly," to mimic insects on the water's surface.


Spearfishing: Suitable for shallow and clear waters. This method requires a spear or a specialized bow gun to strike the fish directly.


Saltwater Fishing

Trolling: A moving boat drags lures or bait to catch larger fish like tuna and marlin.


Surf Fishing: Casting lines from the beach to catch species like pompano and shark.

Deep-sea Fishing: Targets oceanic fish like swordfish using heavy tackle and bait.


2. Skinning and Cleaning Fish

Scaling: Remove scales by scraping from tail to head with a knife or a specialized scaler.

Gutting: Cut from the anus to the gills and remove the innards, being careful not to rupture the intestines.


Skinning: Start by making a cut at the tail end and use pliers or your fingers to peel the skin away from the flesh.

Filleting: Remove the meat from the bones with a filleting knife, cutting along the backbone from tail to head.


3. Cooking Methods

Grilling: Ideal for larger, fattier fish like salmon and trout. Season and place on a hot grill, cooking until the meat is opaque.


Boiling: Suitable for most fish. Boil in salted water or broth until fully cooked, which helps preserve nutrients.


Steaming: Excellent for delicate fish like tilapia, preserving flavor and nutrients without added fats.

Smoking: Adds a rich, smoky flavor and preserves the fish. Good for fatty species like mackerel.


4. Health Benefits

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Essential for heart health and brain function. Found abundantly in fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines.



Protein: High-quality, lean protein helps in muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and Minerals: Fish are rich in vitamins D and B2 (riboflavin), calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, iodine, magnesium, and potassium.


Survival Considerations

When in a survival situation, choose fishing methods that best suit your environment and available resources. Conserving energy is key, so methods like setting traps or using simple lines and hooks might be more effective than active hunting like spearfishing. Always ensure you're fishing legally and ethically to maintain local ecosystems.



(Prep tip) Always have some type of complete seasoning or old bay to enhance your catched and cooked meal .

Have a good insulated cooler with ice and Himalayan salt mixed to keep your catch cold and fresh for longer .



Mastering the art of fishing, skinning, and cooking fish can not only be a rewarding hobby but a vital survival skill. It provides self-sufficiency in natural settings and access to a nutrient-rich diet that supports overall health. Whether for sport, survival, or sustenance, these skills can empower you to thrive in the great outdoors.



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