By Dylan Driessen

Walleye is a prized catch for many anglers, known for its delicate, mild flavor and flaky white flesh. One of the most essential skills for any walleye enthusiast is filleting these fish properly. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to master the art of walleye filleting, ensuring you can enjoy your catch in its most delectable form.

Tools You'll Need

Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

A Sharp Fillet Knife: Invest in a high-quality fillet knife with a thin, flexible blade. A sharp knife is essential for clean cuts and precise filleting.

Cutting Board: Choose a stable cutting board that won't slip while you work.

Gloves (Optional): To maintain a good grip on the fish and protect your hands, wear gloves.

Paper Towels: Have paper towels ready to wipe your hands and clean the fish.

A Clean Work Area: Find a clean, well-lit workspace with ample room to work comfortably!

Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let's dive into the filleting process:

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

Rinse the walleye under cold water to remove any debris, slime, or blood.

Step 2: Scale the Fish (optional)

If you prefer to fillet your walleye with the skin on, now is the time to scale the fish using a fish scaler or the back of your knife.

Step 3: Begin Filleting

Lay the fish flat with its dark side up. Start your first fillet cut by placing the knife behind the pectoral fin and angling it slightly towards the head.

Step 4: Glide Along the Backbone

Slowly glide the knife along the backbone, maintaining gentle pressure to separate the fillet from the bone.

Step 5: Flip and Repeat

Once you've filleted one side, flip the fish and repeat the process on the other side.

Step 6: Remove the Skin (optional)

If you want skinless fillets, carefully separate the flesh from the skin by sliding your knife along the fillet.

Step 7: Trim and Clean

Examine each fillet for any remaining bones or dark-colored flesh. Trim these off to ensure you're left with the finest, boneless fillets.

Step 8: Rinse and Pat Dry

Rinse the fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

Step 9: Store or Cook

You can either cook your walleye fillets immediately or store them in the refrigerator/freezer for a short period.

Filleting walleye is a valuable skill that every angler should master to fully enjoy the delicious, delicate flavor of this sought-after fish. With the right tools, a clean workspace, and a bit of practice, you can produce perfect walleye fillets for your next culinary adventure. Whether you prefer your fillets pan-fried, grilled, or baked, the reward is worth the effort. So, head out to your favorite walleye fishing spot, and remember these steps to ensure your catch is transformed into a delectable meal.