FRIDAY FIVE: Tastiest fish in Sarasota waters

There are a lot of perks that come with living in a waterfront region such as Sarasota Couny. Residents and tourists can enjoy the beaches and the Gulf of Mexico, boaters can roam free through Sarasota Bay and we have veritable buffet of delicious fish* in our own waters.

 Here's a list of five of the tastiest fish* that can be caught in Sarasota Bay or the Gulf of Mexico.

+ Mullet

Mullet are vegetarian, so you're not very likely to catch these fish using a rod and reel.

But, using a cast net to target a school of mullet can yield a large catch. They're delicious when smoked, and make a mean appetizer as a dip.

+ Red snapper

Red snapper is one of the most popular white fish. This local fare isn't as "fishy" as most fish and pairs well with nearly any seasoning.

Even better, you can learn how to prepare a restaurant-style red snapper plate by watching our In the Kitchen series with Pattigeorge's.

+ Pompano

Fall is one of the best seasons for catching the "world's most edible fish," in and around Sarasota Bay.

Cleaning this fatty fish is simple, and the whole pompano on a grill can make for a simple dinner plan. Check Big Pass, New Pass, and sand bars in Sarasota Bay for schools of pompano. 

+ Grouper

Grouper is another widely popular white fish. They can be caught offshore, but also tend to hang out in deep holes at the bottom of Sarasota Bay near the Siesta Key south bridge.

And our In the Kitchen series featuring BeacHhouse presents a smart take on a grouper plate.

+ Stone crab

Okay.

*Stone crabs aren't technically fish — they're crustaceans. But, they are an apt exception in this list because they may very well be the tastiest crustacean in the sea. Snow crab and king crab can't touch the lobster-esque taste of stone crab.

Prepare your crackers, stone crab season begin Oct. 15.