When it comes to cooking fish, baking is easier and less messy than frying, and in the author’s opinion, the fillets taste better, too.

In Canada and the northern United States, burbot spawn in February and March — under the ice! Most burbot are caught after dark by ice anglers, but it’s possible to find these deep-water fish during the day, too.

Selective harvest — knowing which fish to keep for the table — is key to making great meals and ensuring outstanding fisheries in the future.