Fried catfish, freshly caught from a pond

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of catching your own fish, preparing it with care, and serving up a delicious, golden-fried meal. The Jones family has been perfecting this fish fry breading for generations, creating a blend that brings out the best in fresh-caught fish. Whether you're pulling in bluegill, crappie, bass, perch or catfish, this crispy coating locks in flavor while delivering the perfect crunch.

Fishing isn’t just about the catch—it’s about the experience. Stocking your pond means you don’t have to travel to enjoy great fishing, and with this tried-and-true breading recipe, you can turn every fishing trip into a true pond-to-table feast. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe makes every bite as rewarding as the time spent on the water.

A frying pan sizzling with freshly caught, breaded fish
Freshly caught yellow perch sitting on the ice near a fishing rod.

Ingredients

1 cupWhole Wheat Flour
2 cupStone Ground Yellow Corn Meal
2/3 cupInstant Potato Flakes
1/2 cupGround Pretzels with Salt
3 TbspFine Ground Black Pepper
1 TbspGround Red Pepper
2 TbspSalt 
1 TbspPaprika
2 TspGarlic Powder
32-64 oz. Canola or Vegetable Oil 

 

Directions:

  1. Mix all dry ingredients well.
  2. Soak fish fillets in salted buttermilk and egg wash mix for at least one hour or overnight.
  3. Dredge fish fillets in breading mixture.
  4. Heat oil to 350-370º F
  5. Cook fillets for 3-6 minutes or until crisp and golden brown.

 

So fire up the fryer, gather your friends and family, and taste the difference of fresh, home-cooked fish. There’s no better way to enjoy the rewards of managing your own pond than by sharing a meal straight from the water to your plate!