1. **Choose Fresh Fish**: Always start with fresh fish. Look for clear eyes, firm flesh, and a fresh ocean smell.
2. **Cleaning the Fish**:
- Rinse the fish under cold water to remove any slime or debris.
- Use a sharp knife to make an incision behind the gills and cut down to the belly.
- Carefully open the fish and remove the entrails. Be cautious not to puncture any organs, as this can lead to a bitter taste.
- Rinse the cavity thoroughly under cold running water to remove any blood or residue.
3. **Scaling the Fish**:
- Use a fish scaler or the back of a knife to scrape off the scales, starting from the tail and moving towards the head. Make sure to do this over a sink or outside to avoid a mess.
- Rinse the fish again to remove any loose scales.
4. **Filleting (Optional)**:
- If you prefer fillets, place the fish on a cutting board. Make a cut just behind the head and follow the spine down to the tail, using the bones as a guide.
- Flip the fish and repeat on the other side. You can also remove the skin if desired.
5. **Marinating**:
- Marinate your fish for at least 30 minutes before grilling. A simple marinade can include olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like dill or parsley. This not only adds flavor but also helps keep the fish moist during grilling.
6. **Prepping the Grill**:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are ashed over.
- Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. You can use a paper towel dipped in oil and held with tongs.
7. **Grilling the Fish**:
- Place the fish skin-side down on the grill. For whole fish, you can also stuff the cavity with herbs and lemon slices for added flavor.
- Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fish. A good rule of thumb is to cook it for about 10 minutes for every inch of thickness.
- The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
8. **Serving**:
- Serve the grilled fish with lemon wedges and your favorite sides. Fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil can enhance the presentation and flavor.
By following these steps, you'll have deliciously grilled fish that's ready to impress at your next cookout! Enjoy your fishing and grilling adventures!
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