10 Best Fish Cookbooks 2025 in the United States

The MeatEater Fish and Game Cookbook by Steven Rinella is an extensive guide designed for hunters and anglers looking to make the most of their catch. The cookbook is quite comprehensive, spanning 368 pages, and it features a variety of recipes that go beyond just fish, incorporating a wide range of game meats as well. This broad scope might be appealing for those who enjoy a diverse culinary experience involving wild game and fish. The instructions are detailed, which can be very helpful for both novice and experienced cooks, ensuring that the recipes are accessible to a wider audience.

Furthermore, the inclusion of various cooking techniques makes it a valuable resource for learning how to prepare and cook different types of fish and game effectively. The cookbook also boasts high-quality visuals, which can be inspiring and useful for understanding the steps and final presentation of the dishes. However, it is worth noting that the weight and size of the book might make it less convenient for casual browsing or kitchen use. Additionally, the focus on both fish and game means that if you're looking specifically for a fish-only cookbook, you might find fewer fish recipes than expected.

Nonetheless, it's a great resource for anyone interested in expanding their culinary skills with fish and game.

Fish Butchery: Mastering The Catch, Cut, And Craft is a comprehensive cookbook that aims to deepen your understanding and skills in preparing fish. The hardcover book spans 272 pages, making it a substantial guide for enthusiasts. One of its major strengths is the variety of fish covered, offering an extensive range that caters to different tastes and culinary preferences.

The book excels in including detailed instructions, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned cooks. Its step-by-step guidance on techniques such as filleting, deboning, and cooking ensures that readers can master the art of fish preparation with confidence. Additionally, 'Fish Butchery' doesn't just stick to traditional recipes; it explores creative and diverse cooking methods, which can be exciting for those looking to expand their culinary repertoire.

The quality of visuals is another noteworthy feature, with high-resolution images that aid in understanding the techniques and showcase the beauty of the dishes. However, the book's size and weight (3.2 pounds) might make it cumbersome for casual use in the kitchen. Also, while it covers a wide variety of fish, some rare or regional species may be underrepresented, which could be a drawback for those looking for niche recipes.

'Tin to Table: Fancy, Snacky Recipes for Tin-thusiasts and A-fish-ionados' is a fish cookbook that focuses on creative and snack-style recipes, especially for those who enjoy using canned fish. The book offers a focused selection of recipes centered around quick, fancy snacks, ideal for those seeking easy and flavorful ideas with tinned fish.

It covers a niche selection of fish types, primarily those commonly found in tins, making it less comprehensive for those looking for a wide range of fresh fish varieties. The cooking techniques emphasize simple preparation and assembly, aligning with the snacky, accessible style of the book.

This cookbook suits readers who want to explore easy and elegant ways to enjoy canned fish rather than those seeking in-depth cooking lessons or extensive fresh fish recipes.