How long does Fatty fish (bluefish) last in the fridge?

Updated 2026-08-07 · Free · No sign-up

Fatty fish (bluefish, catfish, mackerel, mullet, salmon, tuna, etc.) keeps about 1–2 days in the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below, counting from the day you bought it. Frozen, it keeps about 2–3 months.

Source: USDA FoodKeeper v128 · Category: Seafood

How long Fatty fish (bluefish, catfish, mackerel, mullet, salmon, tuna, etc.) keeps

SituationKeeps for
Unopened · fridge1–2 days
Freezer2–3 months

Only situations with a published figure are listed. A blank isn't “forever” — it means no reliable number is published for it.

Storage

How to tell if Fatty fish (bluefish, catfish, mackerel, mullet, salmon, tuna, etc.) has gone bad

These are the general spoilage signs for seafood — never taste something to test it. When in doubt, throw it out.

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FAQ

How long does Fatty fish (bluefish, catfish, mackerel, mullet, salmon, tuna, etc.) last in the fridge?

About 1–2 days at 40°F (4°C) or below, according to USDA FoodKeeper v128. That window runs from the day you bought it — FoodKeeper publishes no separate after-opening figure for this one.

Does Fatty fish (bluefish, catfish, mackerel, mullet, salmon, tuna, etc.) need to be refrigerated?

Yes — keep Fatty fish (bluefish, catfish, mackerel, mullet, salmon, tuna, etc.) at 40°F (4°C) or below. Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below.

How can you tell if Fatty fish (bluefish, catfish, mackerel, mullet, salmon, tuna, etc.) is bad?

Look for: A strong fishy, sour, or ammonia smell; A slimy film, or dull sunken eyes on whole fish; Flesh that doesn't spring back when pressed; Discoloration or darkening at the edges. Never taste something to test it — when in doubt, throw it out.

Can you freeze Fatty fish (bluefish, catfish, mackerel, mullet, salmon, tuna, etc.)?

Yes — USDA FoodKeeper v128 gives about 2–3 months in the freezer at 0°F (−18°C). Frozen food stays safe indefinitely; that window is about quality, not safety.

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