Walleye

Gill-net, Lake Erie

Walleye's buttery texture and delicate sweetness makes it one of the most popular freshwater fishes. Walleye is so popular that it is the official state fish of Minnesota, South Dakota, and Vermont. Although it is often called "walleye pike," it is actually a member of the perch family.

Walleye has a sweet flavor and a delicate flake, and it can be prepared in virtually any way—sautéed, baked, and grilled. My mother's favorite Florida restaurant serves this Great Lakes fish topped with artichokes and tomatoes, then drizzled with béarnaise sauce. Seafood Watch rates walleye a "Good Alternative." Higher mercury level. Kosher.