Introduction
River Sole – Saul or Snakehead fish is a weirdly looking fish that strikingly resembles snakes. It is one of the highly prized freshwater fish in Pakistan and has a very strong fan following.
Available throughout the year ( but not abundant ), River sole – Saul can be the capstone of any meal because of its distinctive sweet and moist flavor.
Flavor Profile
River sole is probably one of the tastiest fish of freshwater fish available in Pakistan. The River Sole is meat is firm, white, and flaky. The meat has no fishy smell and slightly firm than Tilapia.
Nomenclature
English Name: River Sole, Snakehead fish
Local Name: Saul
Scientific Name: Channa Marulius
Habitat
The River Sole is native to the majority of rivers and lakes in Pakistan. River sole is also being farmed these days
Catching Method
River Sole is caught using gillnets.
Physical Attributes
River Sole is a freshwater fish and has scales on the body. The body is elongated and sub-cylindrical. The head and mouth are large with a lower jaw having 7-18 canines. The dorsal fin extends from the head to the caudal region,
Color
Since these fishes inhabit a variety of freshwater environments, their color differs accordingly. Usually, the above lateral line is reddish with 5 or 6 dark oval blotches on flanks. The below lateral line between blotches is pale yellow.
Size
On average, the Ribbon Fish size range is 500 to 2000 grams per fish. However, other sizes are also occasionally available.
Cutting Preferences
River sole is preferred for slice cutting with centre bone.
Approx. Cutting Yields
Whole: 100%
Gutted: 80%
Headless and Gutted: 70%
Slices: 65%
Boneless: 40%
Cooking Preferences
River Sole is an excellent eating fish ideal for frying, grilling, curry, and bbq.
Health Benefits
- Heart friendly
- Lowers Blood Pressure
- Improves Immune System
- Strengthens the bones
- Improves Skin and Hair health
