Our spring season started with some high temperatures around the country and predictably, the fishing heated up too with some great catches. People were reporting solid snapper under the work ups and kingfish marauding amongst the schools of pilchards and anchovies.
When the fishing is good and abundant (and particularly when the weather is hot) we have to make sure we look after our catch so nothing is wasted. This starts with properly killing the fish, an iki spike to the brain is quick and effective. After dispatching it quickly the fish needs to be cooled in a salt ice slurry before you put it on ice. If you only have one chilly bin use a thin slurry and don’t let the fish freeze by putting too much ice in the water. A 2:1 ratio of water to ice is good. This ensures the flesh is in top condition and most importantly, can be kept in the fridge for longer until it is all consumed.
Fishers will need to factor in extra time to process the fish so everything is used. If you find yourself with too much fish and not enough time to eat it all, best to join the Free Fish Heads community (www.freefishheads.co.nz) by downloading the app and sharing your fish heads and frames with people in your area who would love them.
Because someone may not be expecting your gift, it may take them a bit longer to arrange collection of the heads and frames. If you have taken care of your fish with the iki and ice treatment it will remain in good condition until you or someone else sit down to enjoy a feast from the sea.
See our video on how to best care for and use all your catch: https://fishcare.co.nz/principle-3-maximum-utilisation/
