Hey there my fellow fishing enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will check out my three best portable fish cleaning tables to prepare your catch with this year. Unfortunately, cleaning our catch after we have caught it is one of the least enjoyable parts of fishing.
However, this is often due to the conditions in which we are trying to do it in so a good fish cleaning table may go a long way to making things just that little bit easier. And as usual, there are a few choices out there to choose from so to help you out, I have had a good look around and come up with three decent options below.
Let’s check them all out…
My three recommended fish cleaning tables
I will review these in more detail below, but if you just want to get moving without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience:
What are portable fish cleaning tables?
A fish cleaning table is a table that makes preparing a catch faster, cleaner and more manageable. Fish cleaning is messy, but the right cleaning station can reduce the amount of time a fisherman spends descaling, deboning and cleaning up the mess.
A popular fish cleaning table has plenty of space, running water, is durable and comfortable to work on. Good portable options fold for easy storage as well.
What should you be looking for?
The following factors should be considered as you look for a good portable table for your fish cleaning exploits.
- Portability
- Construction
- Height
- Working area
- Additions
Portability
This factor involves how you can quickly move the fish cleaning table or if you can move it at all. Two types of fish cleaning tables are available:
- Semi-Permanent fish cleaning table: This fish table is installed directly on your dock or patio and ideal for those who regularly prepare much fish at home. These type frequently include a few extras such as water sprayers or cup holders. Although if you do plan to move them around just note that they are heavier albeit more resistant to the elements.
- Portable fish cleaning table: Portable fish tables, on the other hand, can be folded up and moved to different locations. Portable tables are ideal for those who go on fishing trips or spend a lot of time outside. Movable fish cleaning tables are less expensive and lighter than semi permanent stations however may have stability and durability issues.
Construction
When purchasing fish cleaning tables, consider the surface as this is where you will be filleting and cleaning. The surface material should be non slip and strong enough to withstand the impact of a fish filleting knife. Polyethylene is a good choice as it is a strong plastic whereas a stainless-steel fish cleaning table is more sanitary and easier to clean.
Another factor to consider is the table’s frame and legs. Make sure they’re made of stainless steel or aluminum for maximum durability and resistance to rust.
Height
The last thing you want is a backache while cleaning your fish because the table is too short. Because table height is not always adjustable, it is best to look for one that is the right height for you.
Working area
This aspect is determined by the amount of fish to be cleaned. If you deal with a lot of fish, you’ll need as much space as possible. The more space your tabletop has, the more space you will have for working. At the same time, only consider purchasing a large one if you know you will have enough storage space for the table.
Additions
Other potential additions include:
- Sprayer: This sprays water to the fish as you start cleaning it.
- Knife rack: This holds your knife safely when not in use.
- Storage shelves or drawers: These help store your equipment.
- Cup holder: This keeps your drinking cup in place as you begin working on the fish
My three recommendations broken down
So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:
The Old Cedar cleaning station offers enough working space for two people to use it simultaneously. It is made from sturdy and solid materials to withstand the elements and small sink for extra cleaning capabilities. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Old Cedar
- Type: Portable fish cleaning table
- Construction: Polyethylene
- Surface area: 48 inches long and 38 inches wide
- Material: Food-grade plastic
- Height: 37 inches
- Weight: 30.75 pounds
Other inclusions:
- Drain
- Folding legs
- Fold-away faucet
- Water feed line
Why have I chosen it?
This cleaning station is designed to clean your game with ease and comfort. It comes with a wide sink and fold-away faucet to give you the water you need and high enough to maintain proper posture as you work on your fish. Made from food-grade plastic, the surface area of this fish cleaning table accommodates two people, which means it is spacious enough to hold larger catches.
2. Magma Tournament Series Dock Foldable Fillet Cleaning and Preparation Station
With my second fish cleaning station option is outfitted with all the necessary components to assist you in preparing your live bait and cleaning your catch. The brand uses corrosion-resistant materials for maximum durability and sanitary use as well. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Magma Store
- Type: Portable fish cleaning table
- Construction: Compression-molded polyethylene and stainless steel
- Surface area: 47 inches long and 19 inches wide
- Material: Stainless
- Height: 38 inches
- Weight: 33.37 pounds
Other inclusions:
- Removable side station
- Engraved ruler
- Fillet knife holders
- Slotted back
Why have I chosen this?
This fish cleaning table is equipped with a functional design with holders so that your fish cleaning items are within your reach and a slotted back for drainage. For portability, you can quickly fold and set up the table thanks to its quick-release knobs. It also has an engraved ruler, which is useful for accurately measuring the size of your acquired fish – although this may make it a little harder to really brag about the size of the fish we have caught – haha.
3. RITE-HITE Stainless-Steel Fillet Cleaning Table
This final fish cleaning fish station has both durability and stability, which are excellent qualities for a long-lasting product. It is also easy to clean and corrosion free. With a deep sink and rigid faucet, cleaning your game should be a breeze. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Rite Hite
- Type: Portable fish cleaning table
- Construction: Stainless steel
- Surface area: 24 inches long and 48 inches wide
- Material: Stainless
- Height: 38 inches
- Weight: 33.37 pounds
Other inclusions:
- Six inches deep sink
- Faucet hooks
- Adjustable feet
- Storage rack at base
Why have I chosen this?
Whilst not as portable as others listed here, this heavy duty stainless steel fillet table is ideal for docks, garages, or anywhere else you need to fillet fish. With its adjustable height, you’re prepared for any situation or terrain and as the product is made of stainless steel, it will last for many fishing seasons.
The table has been designed in such a way that it can be broken down for portability so it can be moved about should the need arise or screwed to the floor if needed for extra stability as well.
Conclusion
There you have it, my three best fish cleaning tables for your filleting tasks. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
