General Appearance
The fish should smell fresh and slightly briny, not fishy or ammonia-like. Eyes should be clear, bright, and slightly bulging. Gills should be bright red or pink, moist, and not slimy. Flesh should be firm and springy to the touch. Scales should be intact and shiny. Color should be consistent, and skin should be smooth, moist, and free of cuts or tears. The belly should be slightly rounded.
Specific to Dressed Fish
Dressed fish should be free of internal organs and scales while retaining intact skin. It should be packaged in a sealed container or wrapped in plastic, without visible ice crystals or condensation, which indicate previous freezing and thawing. When possible, choose locally caught or sustainably sourced fish.
Buying Tips
Ask the fishmonger about freshness, origin, and catch method. Inspect carefully, and trust your instincts—if you have doubts about quality, do not buy it.