How do you kill the darn things - How to prepare catfish?

rednecksportsman511 · #1 01-15-2006, 04:57 PM

Whenever I bring a catfish home to fillet him, I can't seem to kill the things. Ive tried poppin 'em in the head with a hammer, that didn't work. Last time it was still breathing when we cut into it. They've been out of the water fer at least ten minutes before we cut 'em up. What's the easiest way to kill 'em?? :confused:

RiverratSC · #2 01-15-2006, 04:59 PM

There is no easy way.

Catchinbiguns · #3 01-15-2006, 05:00 PM

Usually after a long day of Cattin I'm worn out, so I'll put my catch on Ice until the next day. They're dead by then.

dinkbuster1 · #4 01-15-2006, 05:21 PM

i use a hammer also, works just fine for me but make sure you leave 'em be for about 10 miutes after you beat thier brains out. their nervous system is still working and they tend to move a lot.

vlparrish · #5 01-15-2006, 06:02 PM

Rednecksportsman, I prefer to clean mine while they are alive. I know this sounds inhumane and difficult to do, but if you clean them while their heart is still beating it lets the blood pump out of the meat and makes for whiter filets. It also ensures that your fish are fresh. Just my two cents worth. Vern