Crispy Southern Fried Whiting Fish Recipe
Golden Crunch, Bold Southern Flavor – Made Simple

If you love crispy fish with bold flavor and a classic Southern touch, you’re going to love this fried whiting fish recipe. We’ll take you step by step through seasoning and coating the fillets with a rich, flavorful cornmeal batter, then frying them to golden perfection. This is perfect for family dinners, fish fries, or whenever you're craving that old-school comfort.
Cornmeal Batter Ingredients
- 🌽 1 cup of Cornmeal
- 🧂 1 teaspoon of Seasoning Salt
- 🌶️ 1 teaspoon of Paprika
- 🌿 1 teaspoon of Mrs. Dash (blend)
- 🧄 1 teaspoon of Creole Seasoning
- 🍋 1 tablespoon of Old Bay Seasoning
- 🌶️ Cracked Black Pepper (to taste)
- 🌾 1 teaspoon of Dry Ground Mustard
Fish Ingredients
- 🐟 4–8 Whiting Fish Fillets (fresh or thawed)
Tips for Frying the Perfect Fish
- Make sure your fish is fully patted dry before coating.
- Use a cast iron skillet for that authentic Southern crisp.
- Oil should be 350–375°F before frying for the perfect golden crust.
- Do not overcrowd the pan—fry in batches if needed.
- Let the fried fish rest on a wire rack to preserve the crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this crispy whiting fish with homemade coleslaw, fries, or cornbread for a full Southern experience. Add hot sauce or lemon wedges on the side for a little kick!
Want more Southern-inspired recipes? Visit our recipe library or check out our Mexican dish collection too!