Ikejime: Step-by-Step Guide to the Japanese Fish Killing Method for Better Taste

Fish Spike Tegaki for Japanese Technique Ikijime Shinkeijime Small Size

The humane way to kill fish that makes it taste better & last longer

How to Humanely Kill a Fish (6 Quick and Humane Ways)

How to Humanely Kill a Fish

Ikejime may look easy when you watch it in a video, but it’s actually quite difficult to do in practice. This tool makes ikejime more accessible and easier to perform. It’s especially useful for destroying the fish’s brain, as it’s specifically designed for that purpose, allowing anyone to accurately hit the brain with ease. The key point is the angle of insertion. If you use it at the same angle shown in this video, you can destroy the brain very easily. | Masayuki Ishida

Do you Ikejime your fish? When done correctly, it's not just about killing fish – it's about enhancing the flavour and quality of the fillets. Spiking the fish properly induces relaxation, preventing muscle movements that can degrade taste. This humane method ensures better-coloured, more flavourful fillets and a longer shelf life. Ex-commercial longliner Gavin Perry talks us through the best ikejime techniques and how, when you combine the dispatch method with a proper slurry, you are giving th