Points to consider when buying fish?

Question

I mean fish that you eat not pet fish

Answer 1

Go to a reputable high volume dealer that does their own buying. If the fish is whole (not filleted) check for clear (not cloudy) eyes and red to pinkish gills (not brown). Ask to smell the fish. Smell the gills and the body cavity. If is smells fishy - don't buy it. Don't be concerned with what the dealer may think-they will consider you a knowledgeable buyer. If purchasing fillets or steaks don't even consider if the look dry. Again ask to smell it. Don't be afraid to ask where and when it was caught or arrived in stock. All fish should be icy cold when removed from the case. Shellfish should have shells tightly shut. Ask for scallops from a "dayboat" the term used for a vessel that returns to port each day with their catch. Some boats stay out for a few days and store the shucked scallops in salt water causing them to plump up, gaining water weight (pretty expensive water). This type of scallop doesn't sear properly (brown), because it releases the water during the cooking process.

Answer 2

Smell the fish, if it stinks, don't buy it. Most people think fish normally smells. Fresh fish won't smell bad. Sure fire sign is to look at the eyes. If they are cloudy, fish is old. If they are clear, fish is fresh.
Till next time....
Tight lines!
Johnny
http://www.fishintopsail.com

Answer 3

The eyes should look clear.
It shouldn't smell fishy. (It should smell like the sea, but not like fish).