What should be done with fish that are caught and intended for consumption?

Properly cleaning and storing fish is crucial for ensuring they are safe for consumption and maintain their quality. Once fish are caught, they need to be cleaned to remove entrails and other inedible parts promptly. This process minimizes the risk of spoilage and contamination by bacteria. After cleaning, the fish should be stored at the appropriate temperature to preserve freshness. This typically means either keeping them on ice or refrigerating them if they will be consumed soon.

While freezing is an option for long-term storage, it is not the immediate step to take after catching fish intended for consumption. Giving fish to friends or releasing them back into the water are alternatives that do not align with the intent of retaining them for personal use. Thus, the best approach is to clean and store the fish correctly to ensure they are safe and tasty when ready to eat.