How to Choose the Freshest Fish at Your Local Market

Choosing fresh fish can seem intimidating if you're not sure what to look for, but once you know the basics, you'll feel confident every time you visit your local fishmonger. At The Smelly Alley Fish Company, we believe that understanding what makes fish fresh is the first step to enjoying delicious meals at home.

Appearance matters. Fresh fish should have bright, clear eyes that bulge slightly. Avoid any fish with sunken or cloudy eyes, as this is a sign the fish has been sitting around for too long. The skin should be shiny and metallic-looking, with scales that are firmly attached. If the skin looks dull or the scales are lifting, the fish is past its prime.

Trust your nose. This might seem obvious given our name, but a good fishmonger will have fish that smells of the sea—briny and clean. If it smells strongly of ammonia or "fishy" in an unpleasant way, it's old. Fresh fish shouldn't assault your nostrils; it should smell fresh and oceanic.

Check the gills. If the fishmonger allows, peek at the gills inside. They should be bright red or pink, never brown or grey. Gills are one of the most reliable indicators of freshness because the colour fades quickly as fish ages.

Feel the flesh. Fresh fish flesh should be firm and spring back when you gently press it. If your finger leaves an indentation that doesn't bounce back, the fish is deteriorating. The flesh should be translucent and moist, not mushy or separating from the bones.

Ask about the catch date. Don't be shy about asking your fishmonger when the fish arrived. Most reputable shops will be happy to tell you. Ideally, you want fish caught within the last day or two, especially for eating raw or lightly cooked.

Buy from a busy shop. A busy fishmonger means high turnover, which means fresher stock. If you can find a shop that's always bustling with customers, that's usually a good sign the fish moves quickly.

Consider the season. Some fish are better at certain times of year. Spring mackerel, summer sea bass, and winter cod are all at their peak. Your fishmonger can advise you on what's in season and at its best.

Building a relationship with your local fishmonger is invaluable. They can recommend the best catch of the day, suggest how to prepare it, and even clean and fillet it for you. Fresh fish deserves respect, and choosing it properly is the foundation of great cooking.