A fish scaler is a tool used to remove the inedible outer scales from fish, with various types available including handheld and electric versions. While some anglers use a knife, specialized tools are safer and more efficient. Commercial fishing vessels often use spinning drums to remove scales. Consumers may not need a scaler, but it is useful for those who catch their own fish.
A fish scaler is a kitchen tool designed to remove the inedible outer scales from fish, leaving the soft skin behind. These scales are usually removed as part of the cleaning process, during which the fish will be gutted in preparation for cooking or freezing. There are several different types of scalers on the market, ranging from large motorized commercial versions designed for cleaning multiple fish at once to simple handheld models. The ultimate goal is to quickly and painlessly remove scales from a fish.
Some anglers simply use the blade of a knife to remove the scales. The knife is gently but firmly scraped along the body of the fish, pulling scales with it. However, people can get injured doing this, either on the blade of the knife, which needs to be extremely sharp, or on the sharp fins that some fish have. Therefore, some anglers prefer to use a specialized tool for maximum comfort.
The simplest fish scaler is a portable version that looks more like a rasp. A comfortable handle is firmly gripped as the angler drags the fish scales along the body of the fish. This design is usually very efficient and easy to use, and a skilled handler can remove all the scales from a single fish very quickly. Since removing scales is quite an expensive task, this type of scaler makes the cleaning process much more pleasant.
Some companies make small electric fish scalers that rotate or vibrate, almost like an electric sander. To use this type of scale remover, the angler pulls it lightly down onto the fish’s body, with the scaler pulling off the scales cleanly. Typically the device is waterproofed and battery operated for convenience.
A commercial fishing vessel, on the other hand, is designed differently. The fish are fed into a large rough drum with rough rides. As the drum spins, the sides of the drum peel off the scales and, after a set amount of time, the scaled fish are removed. This type of scaler is not always practical, as some fish can be harmed by passing through the drum. Commercial fishermen and people who catch a high volume of fish both use spinning drums.
As a general rule, the fish is scaled and cleaned before it reaches the market, so most consumers don’t need a fish scaler. People who go into their own fishing, however, will benefit from buying a scaler, and while the tool isn’t intended for multi-purpose use, it certainly comes in handy when needed.
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