A fish cleaning station is a handy tool for removing unwanted debris from your catch. You can choose a portable one to move around your dock, or opt for a permanent installation on the surface of your deck.
Permanent fish cleaning stations are usually more durable than their portable counterparts, and may come with add-on features like a sink or water sprayer. Considering your current, and future needs will help you determine which type of fish cleaning table to purchase.
Size
The size of the fish cleaning station is important because you want it to be large enough for your needs but not so big that it takes up too much space on your dock. For example, if you regularly reel in small fish like bluegill or trout from your dock, then a smaller table may be all you need.
The type of dock you have and its layout should also play a role in the size of fish cleaning station you choose. For example, if your dock has a boat overhang, a fish cleaning station that attaches to the edge of the overhang and hangs over the water is an ideal solution.
For other types of docks, a standard stand-alone fish cleaning station that mounts to the side of the dock is a great choice. It typically includes a plastic cutting surface with a sink or faucet for rinsing and cleaning fish. The frame of this type of fish cleaning table is usually made from marine-grade materials that withstand harsh saltwater conditions and dockside weather.
Durability
A fish cleaning station is a durable, versatile dock-side workstation that is designed to help you clean your catch with ease. It has a sturdy, wide surface to hold multiple fish, a sink, and a faucet that connects to a hose for easy water access. It’s also tall enough to allow you to work comfortably, with a knife rack and storage shelves or drawers for your equipment.
These tables are made with FDA-approved materials, with a non-porous work surface that won’t harbor bacteria. They have convenient slats to drain fish detritus into the water below, and some models even feature a continuous flow of water, so you can keep working without having to wipe down your table in between each fish.
Some dock-mounted fish cleaning stations come with a sprayer or sink for additional wash space, to prevent the mess from traveling away from the table and contaminating your filets. Other extra features include cup holders and a tool drawer, which can make your job easier and faster.
Functionality
Catching fish is fun, but preparing them for the table can be messy. A fish cleaning station makes the process faster, cleaner and more manageable. These tables are designed with fishermen in mind and come in a variety of sizes. Some are portable while others are permanent dock-mounted installations.
If you’re building a fish cleaning station yourself, choose a design that is easy to clean and made of sanitary materials. You should also look for a design that can handle heavy use and corrosive saltwater conditions. A Niagara fish cleaning station is ideal for these conditions because it has a constant stream of water that flushes away debris as you work.
For added functionality, consider adding extra shelves and other features to your fish cleaning station. A knife rack is essential to protect your hands and a cup or umbrella holder can be convenient for beverages. A storage shelf is useful for storing bags, papers, cleaning brushes and tools.
Cost
A fish cleaning station makes the work of preparing your catch faster, cleaner and less messy. It reduces the amount of time a fisherman spends descaling and deboning, and it eliminates the need to clean up the mess on the boat or dock.
The best fish cleaning tables are made from materials that will hold up to the elements and withstand repeated use. They should feature a smooth, durable surface and have a sink with a foldaway faucet that can be easily hooked up to a hose. The table should also be high enough to allow for comfortable working posture.
In addition to the basic components of a fish cleaning station, some come with extra features like a sprayer, tool drawer, or cup holders. While these add-ons aren’t necessarily essential, they can make the station more functional and useful. Before buying one, it’s important to consider your current needs and future needs. This will help you select the right type of fish cleaning station.
