Here are some easy to follow instructions to help you measure your fish correctly:
When you thaw the fish for skinning, lay it out flat and straight (this is very important).
The "A" measurement is from the center of the eye to the base of the tail (where the scales stop). Measure this area on the fish to get the length measurement.
Next, measure around the largest part of the fish toward the middle of the fish for the "C" measurement. This is the girth measurement.
Some people prefer to use the "B" measurement for length. In this case, measure from the collar bone to the base of the tail.
I have used this measurement with mixed results. I recommend the "A" (length) and "C" (girth) measurements for best results.
Measurements must be accurate. Fish skins do not stretch a great deal. Try to select a form just under the length and girth measurements (about 1/2" each way). This will give you some room for error. You can actually use a form up to an inch smaller.
This will ensure a proper fit and should be very close to the actual size of the fish.
The reason for dropping down on the form measurement is simple. You are allowing for the difference between the form with no skin and the fish which is measured over the skin. After the skin is applied over the form it will gain approximately one inch.
Always pre-fit the form in the skin to be sure of a proper fit.
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