Table of Contents

Types of freshwater fish

Rainbow Trout

Native to North America, rainbow trout are popular among anglers and are known for their colorful, iridescent skin. They have a mild, delicate flavor and are commonly served grilled, baked, or pan-fried. 1)

Catfish

Catfish are widely found in North America and Africa and are known for their whisker-like barbels around their mouths. They have a mild, sweet flavor and are often used in Southern U.S. cuisine, particularly in dishes like catfish fry. 2)

Bass (Largemouth and Smallmouth)

Bass are popular sport fish found in freshwater lakes and rivers in North America. Largemouth bass are known for their large mouths and aggressive feeding behavior, while smallmouth bass are prized for their fighting ability and slightly firmer flesh. 3)

Walleye

Walleye are native to North America and are valued for their mild, sweet flavor and firm texture. They are commonly found in lakes and rivers and are popular for dishes like walleye fillets and walleye cakes. 4)

Pike

Northern pike are aggressive predators found in northern freshwater lakes and rivers. They have a distinctive elongated body and sharp teeth, and their meat is white, firm, and has a slightly gamey flavor. 5)

Perch (Yellow Perch and European Perch)

Perch are found in freshwater lakes and rivers in North America and Europe. Yellow perch have tender, white flesh with a mild flavor, while European perch are known for their slightly stronger taste. 6)

Tilapia

Tilapia are native to Africa but are now farmed worldwide due to their adaptability and mild flavor. They are commonly used in a variety of dishes and are popular for their easy preparation and neutral taste. 7)

Trout (Brown and Brook)

Brown trout are native to Europe and have been introduced to North America, known for their distinctive brown spots and rich flavor. Brook trout are native to North America and are smaller but prized for their delicate, sweet taste. 8)

Carp

Carp are found in freshwater lakes and rivers across Europe, Asia, and North America. They are a staple in many Asian cuisines and are often prepared in dishes like carp soup or grilled carp. 9)

Muskellunge (Muskie)

Muskellunge, or muskie, are large, predatory fish found in freshwater lakes and rivers in North America. They are known for their elongated bodies, sharp teeth, and impressive size, making them a sought-after catch for sport fishing. 10)

Arapaima

Arapaima, also known as pirarucu, are native to the Amazon Basin in South America. They are one of the largest freshwater fish in the world and are prized for their firm, flaky flesh, often used in traditional Amazonian dishes. 11)

Freshwater Drum (Sheepshead)

Freshwater drum, also known as sheepshead, are found in rivers and lakes across North America. They have a mild, sweet flavor and are often grilled, baked, or fried. 12)

Rudd

Rudd are native to Europe and Asia and are found in still waters and slow-moving rivers. They have a mild flavor and are often used in European cuisines, particularly in dishes like rudd cakes and soups. 13)

Koi

Koi are ornamental varieties of the common carp, originally bred in Japan for their vibrant colors. While primarily kept for ornamental purposes, koi are edible and are sometimes used in traditional Japanese dishes. 14)

White Bass

White bass are native to North America and are found in freshwater lakes and rivers. They have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and are often used in dishes like fish tacos and white bass fillets. 15)