h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

don't bite that slab of fish! put the fork down. you need to clean the outside of the fish too, namely the SCALES. most fish have SCALES that are not pleasant to eat (some fishes that don't need descaling include most trout, catfish, eel). I suggest either using a file-like too made especially for descaling fish, or use the blunt edge of a knife (opposite of the sharp edge). First hold onto our little beastie's tail with one hand, and firmly scrape its side with either one of the tools mentioned above. Watch out for some scales fying up and away; it's a messy task. and Don't forget to flip and descale the other side too.

That's true!

I find that, if you're at home, doing this part in the sink witht he fish nderwater prevents the scales from going everywhere.

<fairy: