How Long To Grill Walleye

How Long to Grill Walleye: A Guide to Perfectly Cooked Fish

Grilling walleye is a fantastic way to enjoy this delicate, flaky white fish. Its mild flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of seasonings and grilling techniques, resulting in a delicious summer meal. But knowing how long to grill walleye is crucial to achieving that perfect balance of flaky interior and slightly charred exterior. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring your next walleye grilling experience is a resounding success.

Factors Affecting Walleye Grilling Time

Several factors influence the grilling time for walleye:

Thickness of the Fillet:

This is arguably the most important factor. Thicker fillets will naturally require more grilling time than thinner ones. Aim for fillets that are relatively uniform in thickness for even cooking.

Heat of the Grill:

A hot grill cooks faster, while a medium-heat grill provides a more gentle cooking process. High heat is ideal for achieving those beautiful grill marks, but be cautious to avoid burning the delicate walleye.

Desired Level of Doneness:

Do you prefer your walleye slightly translucent (rare), cooked through, or somewhere in between? Your preference directly impacts the grilling time.

How to Grill Walleye: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preparation is Key:

• Thaw Properly: Ensure your walleye fillets are completely thawed before grilling.
• Pat Dry: Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the fillets dry. Excess moisture can lead to steaming instead of grilling.
• Season Generously: Experiment with different seasonings! Popular choices include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dill, or lemon pepper. Marinades can also add incredible flavor.

2. Preparing the Grill:

• Clean Grates: Clean your grill grates thoroughly to remove any debris or residue from previous cooks. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

3. Grilling Time:

This is where things get specific. As a general rule, walleye fillets that are about ½ inch thick will take approximately 3-4 minutes per side over medium-high heat. Thicker fillets will require longer cooking times; thinner fillets, shorter.

• Check for Doneness: The best way to check for doneness is to gently flake the thickest part of the fillet with a fork. It should flake easily and be opaque throughout. Avoid overcooking, as this will result in dry, tough walleye.

4. Serving Suggestions:

• Sides: Grilled corn on the cob, potato salad, coleslaw, or a simple green salad are all excellent accompaniments.
• Sauces: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a drizzle of tartar sauce, or a creamy dill sauce can elevate your walleye to the next level.

Troubleshooting Common Walleye Grilling Problems:

• Sticking: Ensure your grill grates are clean and oiled.
• Burning: Reduce the heat or decrease the grilling time.
• Uneven Cooking: Use fillets of uniform thickness and adjust the placement on the grill as needed.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Walleye:

• Use a Grill Basket: A grill basket prevents smaller pieces of walleye from falling through the grates.
• Don't overcrowd the Grill: Allow space between the fillets for even cooking.
• Flip Only Once: Resist the urge to flip the walleye multiple times.

By following these guidelines and paying close attention to your walleye as it grills, you’ll be rewarded with perfectly cooked, flavorful, and delicious fish every time. Happy grilling!