One of the most unique looking saltwater fish and best tasting saltwater fish is the hogfish. Unquestionably the hogfish is highly sought after by anglers, including myself, along offshore reefs. Hogfish are unique in the sense that they are not commonly caught by rod and reel but instead speared. Spear fishing anglers hunt for hogfish with diving gear and without diving gear. However, I have caught one by rod and reel while fishing on the west coast of Florida. Needless to say, this one ended up on the dinner table. When it comes to what does hogfish taste like? Here is what you need to know. 

Taste and Texture Of Hogfish

Unquestionably, the filets of a hogfish are white in color and thick therefore, they yield a significant amount of meat. 

One of the primary reasons that hogfish filets are highly regarded is because of the fish’s diet. Notably, the hogfish scours the seafloor for crustaceans and mollusks. Without a doubt, the diet is highly influential on the quality of the flesh. 

Hogfish Texture

Regarding texture, hogfish filets are defined as soft and flakey. I can attest to the fact that they are soft and flaky, considering the number of hogfish I have had and served as a meal. 

In addition to its soft and flaky characteristics, the flesh is incredibly white. Unlike other reef fish and pelagics with blood lines, the hogfish contains little to no blood lines. Undoubtedly, fish with highly visible blood lines such as mahi mahi take on hints of copper unless the line is completely removed. Therefore, you will not need to worry about losing any of the soft flakey filet after the fish is cleaned. 

Hogfish Taste

I’ll start by saying my wife, who does prefer the taste of fish, will eat hogfish at least once per week. That says something about the quality of taste when it comes to eating hogfish. 

Again, the filets of a hogfish are highly impacted by diet. As a result of the diet, the flesh has buttery tones that are mild but sweet. Comparatively, the flavoring is similar to that of a lobster or scallop. 

I have eaten hogfish prepared in a multitude of ways and can say for certain that it requires minimal seasoning. The beauty of eating hogfish is enjoying the natural flavors that come from the white flaky filets. 

How Should Hogfish Be Prepared

Without a doubt, hogfish can be prepared in a multitude of ways thanks to its mild and buttery taste. I prefer to cook hogfish in two different ways. Here is what I recommend when cooking hogfish. 

Fried Hogfish

In my opinion, the best method for cooking hogfish is deep frying. I have cooked up deep fried hogfish on numerous occasions, especially when feeding large groups of people. 

Unquestionably, an electric deep fryer makes the job easier but is not necessary, as a frying pan on the cooktop will do the trick. 

Fortunately, you can batter the filets to your liking whether you prefer bread crumbs, beer batter, panko, or other. 

I highly recommend cutting the filets into nuggets as they are best served bite sized compared to whole. 

Lastly, I prefer to use peanut oil compared to other types of oil. The peanut oil provides the best flavor and cooks the fish quickly and crisply because of the high temperatures peanut oil reaches. 

Grilled Hogfish

As a result of the thickness of hogfish filets and the flaky texture, they are perfect when placed on the grill. 

On days when I prefer a lighter meal option, I choose to grill my hogfish compared to frying it up in the deep fryer. 

Unquestionably, you won’t need to add much when it comes to seasoning on hogfish filets. I suggest adding salt, pepper, and garlic powder after lightly basting them in oil. The oil prevents the fish from sticking to the grill. 

Importantly, heat the grill prior to placing the fish on the rack. Secondly, never over cook hogfish; it will become dry and lose its natural flavor. For this reason, keep a fork on hand to determine when it begins to flake apart with ease. 

What Does Hogfish Taste Like? Answered

I highly recommend getting your hands on fresh hogfish filets as they are one of the most delicious fish from the ocean. Admittedly, they are challenging to catch and difficult to chase down with a spear. For this reason, you may need to visit an online seafood distributor and have it delivered to your door.