Fileting Crappie

[mastercaster1]

Another post reminded me of this question I had.

I do not harvest a ton of fish but definitely like to filet when I do. I usually work my way around the rib cage and do the best I can not to waste. This works well with Bass and Walleye but I find it tougher on Crappie. Do you guys just take the rib cage and remove after while fileting?

MC

[Goshawk]

That's what I've always done myself. Make the initial cut right behind the gills down to the backbone, turn the knife flat and cut almost to the rear fin, flip the fillet over and cut along the skin back to the front of the fillet. Then cut along the top of the ribs, angled inward to reduce waste, all the way through. I can't remember ever leaving a bone in my fillets.

[crappeeeman]

I go around the ribs like you do. My friend cuts right through then removes the ribs after. Both ways work great not much difference. I just prefer this way.

[Jerkbaiter]

If I am lucky to catch a few crappies I just remove the scales , cut the head and guts and pan fry with the skin .
So yummy

[xiaolu]

If I am lucky to catch a few crappies I just remove the scales , keep the head, remove the guts and pan fry with the skin .
So yummy:-)