How to Grill Fish

Grilling fish at home is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal. The smoky aroma, the sizzle on the grill, and the tender, flaky texture make grilled fish a favorite in BBQ culture.

It's not only delicious but also a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids. We've seen that mastering the art of how to grill fish can add serious variety and finesse to your backyard cookouts. If you're comfortable with basics like how to grill a pork tenderloin, adding fish to the mix is a smart way to expand your grilling skill set.

What this article covers:

• Choosing the Right Fish for Grilling
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Preparing Fish for the Grill
• Fish Grilling Techniques
• Tips for Perfectly Grilled Fish

Choosing the Right Fish for Grilling

Firm, meaty fish like salmon, tuna, mahi-mahi, swordfish, and halibut are ideal choices. These varieties hold up well on the grill and are less likely to fall apart during cooking.

When choosing fresh fish, look for vibrant color, a clean, ocean-like smell, and firm texture. Avoid fish with dull coloration, a strong fishy odor, or mushy flesh.

Deciding between fillets and whole fish depends on your preference and grilling method. Fillets are quicker to cook and easier to handle, while whole fish can offer a more dramatic presentation and enhanced flavor when grilled properly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Having the right tools can make grilling fish a breeze. Here are the essentials you'll want on hand:

• Gas, charcoal, or electric grill
  
• Grill basket for more delicate fillets
  
• Fish spatula
  
• Cedar plank
  
• Clean and oiled grill grate
  

With these tools, you're setting yourself up for a smooth, stress-free grilling session.

Preparing Fish for the Grill

Proper preparation is key to grilling fish successfully. Start by cleaning the fish and patting it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a better sear and prevents sticking.

Decide whether to marinate the fish or use a BBQ rub. Marinating can add depth of flavor, but even a sprinkle of a quality rub can be sufficient. Allow the fish to come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking.

The prep process here isn't far off from what you'd follow if you were learning how to cook tri tip on grill, just adapted for something a bit more delicate.

Fish Grilling Techniques

Direct Grilling

Direct grilling involves placing the fish directly over the heat source, making it ideal for fillets and steaks.

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the fish on the grill and cook for about 3-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. The fish is ready to flip when it releases easily from the grill.

Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

Indirect Grilling

Indirect grilling is suitable for whole fish, allowing for gentle, even cooking.

Set up your grill with a two-zone fire, placing the coals or burners on one side and leaving the other side without direct heat. Place a drip pan under the grill grate on the cooler side to catch any drippings.

Position the fish over the drip pan, close the lid, and cook until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily.

Grilling in Foil or on Planks

Grilling fish in foil packets or on cedar planks helps retain moisture and infuse flavor.

For foil packets, place the seasoned fish on a sheet of heavy-duty foil, add herbs, lemon slices, and a pat of butter, then seal the packet. Grill over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes.

For plank grilling, soak the cedar plank in water for at least an hour, place the fish on the plank, and grill over medium heat until cooked through.

Grilling with Skin On vs. Skin Off

Grilling fish with the skin on can help hold the fillet together and add flavor. Place the fish skin-side down on the grill and cook for the majority of the time on this side to achieve crispy skin.

If you prefer skinless fish, be extra cautious when flipping to prevent it from falling apart. Using a grill basket or foil can provide additional support for skinless fillets.

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Fish

Grilling fish isn't rocket science, but it does take a few pro tricks to get it just right. We've narrowed it down to a few golden rules. Follow these, and you'll be plating up perfectly grilled fish in no time:

Keep Your Grill Grates Clean and Oiled

This is rule number one. Not only is a clean grill grate more hygienic, but it also helps prevent sticking.

Old, crusted-on food and dry, grimy bars are a surefire way to ruin a delicate fillet. Give your grates a good scrape before and after each use.

Then, once they're hot, use a paper towel dipped in high-heat oil (like canola or grapeseed) and rub it across the bars using tongs.

Let the Fish Sit Before You Flip

One of the most common mistakes we see is flipping too soon or too often. Fish is delicate, and moving it around before it's ready can cause it to tear or stick.

The best approach is patience. Let the fish cook undisturbed until it naturally releases from the grill. That's your sign that it's ready to flip. If it resists or pulls, give it a little more time.

Allowing it to develop a good sear not only prevents sticking but also gives you a beautiful, flavorful crust.

Watch for Doneness

Fish cooks quickly, so it's important to keep a close eye on it. You'll know it's ready when the flesh turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If the center still looks translucent or shiny, it needs a little more time.

For extra accuracy, use a meat thermometer. 145°F is the recommended internal temperature for properly cooked fish.

Let It Rest

Letting your fish rest for 3–5 minutes after pulling it off the grill gives the juices a chance to redistribute. That means a moist, flavorful bite instead of dry edges and a soggy center.

Just place it on a plate, tent it lightly with foil, and take a moment to pour yourself a cold drink. You earned it.

And once you've mastered fish, why not give how to grill a ribeye steak a try next?

Conclusion

Grilling fish at home is a great way to enjoy fresh, flavorful meals while building your BBQ skills. Watch for doneness, give the fish time to rest, and don't be afraid to experiment with flavors or techniques.

No matter if you're grilling fillets or going all-in with a whole fish, confidence comes with practice, and a well-stocked grill setup helps a lot. For quality gear and expert tools, visit DDR BBQ Supply and get everything you need to make your next fish cookout a success.

Shop our favorite Fish Essentials Collection HERE.