Fish on ice

[fishingpox]

I got home to an emergency last night and have not been able to clean my fish. How long will fish stay on ice, in a good cooler?

[Jerry Blake]

I've had clients take their fish home on ice and not plan on cleaning them until the next day - 18 to 24-hours later. Never tried it myself though.

[papasage]

i have had no probablem with 24 hours .we buy the out of a fishmarket that has ben on ice for several dayes . mostley saltwater fish but not any different than fresh water fish .

[Pooch]

As long as the gills are still red and the eyes aren't too cloudy looking, I'll still clean and eat them. I've gone 36 hours and the fish still looked good. Not great, but good. I couldn't tell any difference in taste.---Pooch

[murdock1978]

Heck ,up here in North Dakota it takes a half of day just to thaw then out.They will keep a long time especially if you freeze them,but i think they will start to dry out after awhile.Last time out fishing had 27inches of ice under the truck!!

[Barnacle Bill]

I agree with Pooch. I never clean mine the same day.

[DENNIS BOWERS]

I"ve Left Them On Ice For Two Days-as Long As The Gills Are Still Red They Should Be Ok.i Too Try To Always Put Them On Ice Before Cleaning,sure Makes It Easier!!good Fishin To Ya!!!dennis