Crappie is one of the most sought-after freshwater fish, along with Largemouth Bass and Walleye. Which brings up whether Crappie is safe to eat or not? And if so, what does Crappie taste like?
In this post, we will answer the question, can you eat Crappie or not? We will also explain what Crappie tastes like.
Next, we will provide delicious recipes to prepare Crappie and answer any frequently asked questions.
Lastly, we will provide you with the resources you need to catch Crappie with ease. Read on!
Can You Eat Crappie?
Here is the good news, yes, Crappie is safe to eat. Crappie is not only safe to eat, but it is considered to be a delicacy by many. The taste of Crappie has been described as being similar to that of bass or walleye, which is why it is one of the most popular freshwater targets.
Crappie has long been a thriving species throughout freshwater grounds in the United States, especially in the country’s southern half. Although recent years have shown a slight decrease in population, the popular panfish remains plentiful.
Crappie is usually fried, grilled, or baked. However, there are endless possibilities when it comes to recipes for Crappie. Both black and white Crappie provide seafood lovers an excellent opportunity to use their favorite seasonings to serve up a delicious meal.
What Does Crappie Taste Like?
Crappie has a tenuous taste and almost sweet taste to it. It is on the more bland side, which lends it to being a candidate for solid doses of seasonings. Unlike other freshwater fish, including bluegill, Crappie does not have an overly fishy taste, so don’t feel the urge to fry it every time.
When prepared correctly, Crappie has a flaky and fragile texture that resembles codfish without a distinctly fishy taste.
Sounds delicious, right?
Let’s dive into the best ways to prepare Crappie.
How To Prepare Crappie
As we mentioned earlier, crappie can be baked, fried, or grilled. The options are endless!
Before preparing your catch, you need to clean the fish properly.
Here is a quick and easy guide on how to clean a Crappie:
1. First, you will need to gather your supplies. You will need a sharp knife, a cutting board, and a bowl of cool water.
2. Next, you will need to make a slit behind the fish’s gills and cut the head off.
3. Then, you can remove the guts of the fish by making a slit down the belly.
4. Once the guts are removed, you can remove the fish’s scales by cutting a line of them off with your knife.
5. Finally, you can rinse the fish off with cool water, and it is ready to be cooked!
Now that your Crappie is clean and ready to be cooked, it is time to choose a recipe.
Crappie recipes:
No matter how you choose to prepare your Crappie, we are sure that you will enjoy the delicious taste of this popular freshwater fish!
FAQ
Can You Eat Crappie Raw?
While Crappie is safe to eat, we do not recommend eating them raw. Raw fish can contain harmful bacteria that can cause food poisoning.
Is Crappie Healthy?
Yes, Crappie is a healthy seafood choice. It is low in calories and fat and high in protein.
How Long Does Crappie Last?
Properly stored, cooked Crappie will last for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. This is not specific to just Crappie but rather a general rule for all fish species.
How Do You Know When Crappie Is Done?
The best way to know if your Crappie is cooked all the way through is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the fish should be 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
What Pairs Well With Crappie?
Crappie pairs well with various sides, such as rice, vegetables, and potatoes.
Again, not rocket science and not specific to just Crappie. Stick with the staple sides to create a memorable meal with Crappie.
Can You Freeze Crappie?
Yes, you can freeze Crappie. Wrap the fish tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to six months.
Crappie Fishing Resources
Watch this short video below for everything you need to know about crappie fishing.
Now that you know everything there is to know about Crappie, it’s time to go out and catch some! Check out these resources to get started:
Where to Fish for Crappie?
Check out this map to find places to fish for Crappie near you. There are also boat ramps provided to help plan your next fishing trip.
Wrapping Up
We hope you enjoyed learning about Crappie and that you are now inspired to go out and catch some of your own. Be sure to follow the tips we provided on cleaning and preparing your catch. And don’t forget to try one of our delicious Crappie recipes!
Tight lines!
