Maximizing your catch

If you’ve ever hesitated to smoke fish because you didn’t want to give up prime fillets, you’re not alone.

Looking for a way to enjoy smoked fish without sacrificing the parts you most want to keep raw?

Bellies, collars, and tails are packed with flavor and texture, and when handled intentionally, they add an extra layer of enjoyment to the season without taking away from the cuts you’re saving for later.

This approach is especially popular with customers who want pristine raw fish for freezing, gifting, or special meals, while still enjoying smoked fish alongside a freezer full of raw fish.

How This Approach Works

We help you divide your fish with purpose:

  • Prime cuts (fillets and loins) are handled cleanly and carefully for raw use
  • Secondary cuts are set aside for smoking, where their natural richness comes through

Why These Cuts Shine When Smoked

Some parts of the fish naturally lend themselves to smoke:

  • Collars are rich, fatty, and deeply flavorful
  • Bellies absorb smoke beautifully and stay moist
  • Tails and trim develop incredible texture and intensity

These cuts respond especially well to smoking, developing rich flavor and satisfying texture while leaving the rest of your fish exactly how you want it.

A Favorite Strategy for Balanced Freezers

This method is ideal if you:

  • Want to make the most of each fish
  • Love smoked fish but don’t want to “give up” prime fillets
  • Appreciate thoughtful use of the whole catch

The result is a freezer that feels intentional instead of random—raw fish ready when you need it, and smoked portions that feel like a bonus, not a compromise.

When you drop off your fish, we’ll talk through how you plan to use it and help divide it in a way that fits your freezer, your meals, and your preferences.

Can I still smoke fillets if I want to?

Absolutely. This approach is simply one option for dividing your fish with intention. Some customers choose to smoke fillets, others prefer to keep them raw — or do a mix of both. We’ll help you choose what fits your preferences best.

Does this change what I take home?

It can, depending on how you choose to have your fish processed. This approach gives you the option to turn cuts that are often set aside into something you’ll actually use and enjoy — rather than letting them go unused.