How to Choose the Freshest Fish at Your Local Fishmonger

Buying fresh fish can seem intimidating if you're not sure what to look for, but a few basic checks will help you choose the best quality catch every time. Whether you're shopping at a traditional fishmonger or supermarket counter, these tips will serve you well.

Check the eyes and gills. Fresh fish should have clear, bright eyes that look almost alive. The gills underneath should be a deep red or pink colour, never grey or brown. If the eyes look cloudy or sunken, the fish is past its best.

Feel the flesh. Press gently on the fish with your finger. The flesh should spring back immediately. If it leaves an indent or feels soft and mushy, it's not fresh. The fish should feel firm and smell pleasant, like the sea.

Trust your nose. This is perhaps the most important test. Fresh fish should smell like clean ocean water, not strongly "fishy." That overpowering fishy smell is actually a sign of age and bacterial growth. If something smells off, don't buy it.

Check the scales and skin. The skin should be shiny and moist, with scales that are firmly attached. Dull, dry skin or scales that flake off easily suggest the fish has been sitting around for a while.

Ask your fishmonger. A good fishmonger is your best friend when it comes to quality fish. They can tell you exactly when the fish arrived, how it's been stored, and which varieties are at their peak. Don't be shy about asking questions.

Know the season. Different fish are at their best at different times of year. Spring and summer bring excellent quality mackerel, sea bass, and bream. Autumn and winter are perfect for cod, haddock, and turbot. Buying seasonal fish means better flavour and better value for money.

Buy from reputable sources. Whether it's a local fishmonger, farmers' market, or quality supermarket counter, choose places that clearly display their fish on ice and have good turnover. The faster the fish moves, the fresher it will be when you buy it.

With these simple checks in mind, you'll confidently select the finest fish for your family meals. Quality starts at the counter, and it makes all the difference in the kitchen.