The Best Way to Skin Catfish

Catfish are unique among fish because their skin is not covered in scales. In fact, catfish are not considered kosher in some religions because they do not have scales. However, by not having scales, a catfish is generally easier to clean than most other fish, as its skin can be removed in one large piece. Making sure a catfish is securely anchored and making a couple of strategic cuts can allow you to remove catfish skin quickly.

Things You'll Need

  • Wooden board
  • Clamp
  • Scissors or pliers
  • Fillet knife
  • Work gloves
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Take the catfish and lay it flat on its side on a sturdy wooden board. Use a C-clamp to secure the catfish's head to the board.

    • 2

      Use a fillet knife and make incisions into the catfish's skin behind the dorsal fin. Remove the dorsal fin by cutting it away with scissors or pulling it off with pliers.

    • 3

      Peel back part of the skin just behind the gills with pliers. Put on some work gloves to help with grip, and pull the skin in one piece down toward the catfish's tail.

    • 4

      Repeat for any remaining pieces of skin that did not come off in the first section; you may find that certain sections, such as around the belly, are more easily removed by pulling the skin up toward the catfish's head.