How long do you cook fish on a gas grill for the best flavor?

By Avi Green October 04, 2023

If you are a barbecue enthusiast, you've probably wondered 'how long do you cook fish on a gas grill?' Grilling fish can be a bit tricky, but with the right techniques and cooking times, you can achieve a perfectly cooked piece of fish every time.

Grilling fish on a gas grill can bring out amazing flavors and create a mouthwatering dish. The initial challenge for many is often getting the timing right, ensuring the fish is neither undercooked nor overcooked.

Why Grill Fish on a Gas Grill?

Grilling fish on a gas grill not only infuses your fish with a delicious smoky flavor but also helps maintain its moisture, making it tender and flaky. Gas grills offer better temperature control, which is crucial when cooking delicate fish fillets or whole fish. If you're looking for more BBQ tips, check out our guide on cooking Bubba Burgers.

Choosing the Right Fish for Grilling

When it comes to grilling fish, not all types of fish are created equal. Firmer and thicker fish like salmon, tuna, halibut, and swordfish are ideal for grilling. They hold up well to the high heat and are less likely to fall apart. For a more comprehensive guide, see this post on cooking Lobster Tail.

Preparing Your Fish for the Grill

Before you even think about cooking, make sure your fish is prepped correctly. This involves cleaning, deboning if necessary, and marinating. A simple marinade could be olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and some herbs. Prepping your fish well can significantly affect the flavor and cooking time.

Setting Up Your Gas Grill

Cleaning and Oiling the Grill

Before you place the fish on the grill, make sure the grill grates are clean and oiled. This prevents the fish from sticking and breaking apart. A clean grill also ensures even cooking.

Preheating the Grill

Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450F. This temperature helps to sear the fish and lock in its juices while cooking it evenly. For more detailed tips on using a gas grill, visit this guide.

Cooking Times for Different Types of Fish

Salmon

Grill salmon for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on its thickness. A good rule of thumb is to cook about 10 minutes per inch of thickness.

Tuna

Tuna steaks are best cooked rare to medium-rare. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes per side.

Halibut

Halibut should be cooked for around 4-5 minutes per side. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145F.

Swordfish

Cook swordfish steaks for about 5-6 minutes per side. They should reach an internal temperature of 140F.

Testing for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to ensure your fish reaches the safe internal temperature, which is generally around 145F for most fish. Additionally, you can use a fork to check if the fish flakes easily; this is another good indicator that it's done.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not preheating the grill
Overcooking the fish
Using the wrong type of fish
Not cleaning the grill grates

Avoiding these common pitfalls will set you on the path to grilling perfection. For more tips on grilling, dont miss our articles on cooking rack of lamb and cooking sausages.