• Catch N Cook

5 Reasons Why Bonita Is the Best Trash Fish You’ve Never Tried!

Girls In Bikini Fishing | 10/19/2024 0 Likes 0 Ratings

Bonita Is the Best Trash Fish

This video was provided by YouTube channel Kelly Young.

Welcome to the wild world of Florida fishing with Kelly Young! In today's episode, we're diving deep into the waters to catch a Bonita, that so-called “trash fish” that locals usually overlook. But here at Kelly Young, we believe there’s no such thing as a trash fish—just trash cooks! So, grab your fishing gear, your sense of humor, and prepare to learn how to turn this underrated fish into a culinary delight.

What’s in Store for You:

1. A Comedic Fishing Adventure: Watch as I brave the sun, the sea, and a few unexpected hiccups on my quest to catch a Bonita. You'll see firsthand the kind of "fishing magic" (and mishaps) that happen when you're dealing with fish that everyone else has given up on.
2. Why Bonita Is Misunderstood: Have you ever heard someone say, “Oh, you’re just catching trash fish”? Well, it’s time to change that narrative! Join me as I explore the reasons why Bonitas are often dismissed as bait fish and reveal their hidden potential as a delectable meal.
3. Step-by-Step Cooking Guide: Once we've caught our Bonita, it’s time to hit the kitchen! I'll take you through a hilarious yet informative step-by-step guide on how to prepare Bonita. From filleting to seasoning, you’ll be laughing and learning all the way. Spoiler alert: there might be a few fishy puns along the way!
4. Taste Test Reactions: Ever wondered how a fish that’s usually left in the bait bucket actually tastes? I’ll gather a few friends (and maybe a few skeptics) to do a taste test. Their reactions might surprise you! Who knew trash could taste so good?
5. Cooking Techniques: I’ll share my top five cooking methods that transform Bonita from a so-called trash fish into a flavorful dish that even your pickiest eater will love. Whether you're grilling, searing, or preparing it raw, Bonita is about to take center stage in your kitchen.
6. Fun Facts and Myths: Did you know that Bonitas are closely related to tuna? Or that they have a reputation for being a strong fighter when hooked? Throughout the video, I’ll share some fun facts and debunk common myths about Bonitas that will leave you both informed and entertained.
7. Fishing Tips: For those of you looking to catch your own Bonita, I’ll share my top fishing tips! Learn about the best time to fish, what bait to use, and how to avoid the infamous “trash cook” mistakes.

Why You Shouldn’t Dismiss Bonita

Despite their reputation, Bonitas are an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. They may not be your go-to fish like snapper or grouper, but with the right preparation, they can be absolutely delicious. Don’t let the stigma of being a “trash fish” hold you back from trying something new!

The Recipe Breakdown

• Preparation: I’ll show you how to properly clean and fillet a Bonita, ensuring you get the most out of your catch. No one likes waste, and trust me, a clean fish makes for a better meal!
• Marinades and Seasonings: Get ready for some hilarious seasoning anecdotes! I’ll share my go-to marinades that elevate Bonita to gourmet status, including a secret ingredient that you might not expect.
• Cooking Methods:
  • Grilling: Watch as I fire up the grill and demonstrate how to achieve that perfect char. Plus, some tips on not burning your fish (because no one likes charcoal-flavored dinner).
  • Searing: Join me in the kitchen as I pan-sear some Bonita fillets and show you how to achieve a crispy skin that will have you hooked!
  • Raw Preparations: Yes, you heard that right! I’ll be preparing a Bonita poke bowl that’ll make you question everything you thought about this fish. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

5 Reasons Why Bonita Is the Best Trash Fish You’ve Never Tried

1. Delicious Flavor Profile: Bonita has a rich, meaty flavor that is often compared to tuna. While some people describe it as strong, many find it incredibly satisfying when prepared correctly. Its unique taste can elevate a variety of dishes, making it an exciting alternative to more common fish.
2. Affordable and Accessible: Unlike more popular fish like grouper or snapper, Bonita is often seen as a bycatch and is typically less expensive. This makes it a budget-friendly option for those looking to enjoy fresh seafood without breaking the bank.
3. Sustainability: By choosing to eat Bonita, you're supporting sustainable fishing practices. Since they are often caught as bycatch and not specifically targeted, using Bonita helps reduce waste in our oceans.
4. Versatile Cooking Options: Bonita can be prepared in various ways, whether grilled, seared, or even raw in poke bowls. Its firm texture holds up well to different cooking methods, making it perfect for any culinary adventure.
5. Health Benefits: Bonita is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, offering numerous health benefits. It’s a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet while enjoying flavorful meals.

Tasty Bonita Recipes

Recipe 1: Grilled Bonita with Citrus Marinade

Ingredients:

• 2 Bonita fillets
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Zest and juice of 1 orange
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, orange zest, orange juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Fish: Place the Bonita fillets in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator).
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the Fish: Remove the fillets from the marinade and place them on the grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.

Recipe 2: Bonita Poke Bowl

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Bonita, sushi-grade, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup cooked sushi rice
• 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 radish, thinly sliced
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Seaweed sheets for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and honey (if using).
2. Marinate the Bonita: Add the cubed Bonita to the marinade, gently tossing to coat. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Assemble the Bowl: In a serving bowl, place a scoop of cooked sushi rice as the base. Top with the marinated Bonita, avocado slices, cucumber, radish, and green onions.
4. Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and, if desired, add strips of seaweed for extra flavor.
5. Serve: Enjoy your Bonita poke bowl fresh, and don’t forget to snap a pic before digging in!

Taste Test Results

After all the hard work in the kitchen, it’s time to taste our creation! I’ll have my friends take a bite and share their honest (and sometimes hilarious) opinions. Can Bonita win their hearts, or will it go back to the bait bucket? You’ll have to watch to find out!

Final Thoughts

So, whether you’re a seasoned angler or a curious foodie, this video is packed with laughs, useful tips, and delicious recipes that will inspire you to rethink Bonita. Let’s make “trash fish” a thing of the past and celebrate the flavors of Florida’s waters! Don’t forget to hit that like button, subscribe for more fishing and cooking adventures, and share your own experiences with Bonita in the comments below!

Call to Action

Got a funny fishing story or a recipe you love? Share it in the comments! What do you think about Bonita? Is it time to give it a chance, or should it stay a bait fish? I can’t wait to hear from you!

Don't forget to check out our Girls In Bikini Fishing Twitch Channel For Live Streaming. If you want to support us buy us some bait, a beer, a boat, or whatever floats your boat =)