When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Woods For Smoking Fish (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to add an extra touch of flavor to your fish dishes, using woods for smoking may just be the answer you’re searching for. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned chef, smoking fish with different types of woods can make all the difference in the taste of your meals. However, before diving into the world of smoking, there are a few factors you should consider.

Firstly, think about the type of wood you want to use. Different types of woods will give your fish different flavors. For example, cedarwood can lend a sweet, slightly smoky flavor to your fish, while hickory can give it a stronger, more robust smoky flavor. Additionally, you’ll need to consider the size of the wood you’re using, as well as the temperature and cooking time, to ensure the best results.

If you’re still unsure about whether or not using woods for smoking would be a good fit for you, consider a few questions. Are you tired of the same old fish dishes and looking for a way to mix things up? Are you a fan of smoked salmon, and curious about experimenting with smoking other types of fish or seafood? Would you like to impress dinner guests with your culinary skills and unique dish? Using woods for smoking can elevate your cooking and add a new level of flavor to your meals. Give it a try and see the delicious results for yourself.

10 Best Woods For Smoking Fish

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for smoking meat, fish, and cheese with wood pellets on any type of grill or smoker.
2
Ideal for indoor/outdoor smoking for stovetop and barbecue grill, perfect for fall holiday cooking with included wood chip pints.
3
Ideal for adding flavor to grilled meats and vegetables, with a sweet and mild taste.
4
The product is ideal for smoking various foods such as cheese, nuts, steaks, fish, pork, and beef on different types of grills.
5
Ideal for smoking food over any heat source, including indoor stovetops and outdoor BBQ grills.
6
Ideal for smoking food over any heat source, indoor or outdoor, with a compact size of 7" x 11" x 3.5".
7
Ideal for enhancing the flavor and tenderness of salmon when smoked, grilled, or baked.
8
Ideal for those seeking high-quality, fresh smoked salmon from Scotland delivered quickly with overnight guaranteed shipping.
9
The product is ideal for enhancing the flavor and texture of fish through a gourmet brining process.
10
Ideal for use in delis, bakeries or catering events as a serving board for smoked salmon and other food items.
The product is ideal for smoking meat, fish, and cheese with wood pellets on any type of grill or smoker.
Ideal for indoor/outdoor smoking for stovetop and barbecue grill, perfect for fall holiday cooking with included wood chip pints.
Ideal for adding flavor to grilled meats and vegetables, with a sweet and mild taste.
The product is ideal for smoking various foods such as cheese, nuts, steaks, fish, pork, and beef on different types of grills.
Ideal for smoking food over any heat source, including indoor stovetops and outdoor BBQ grills.
Ideal for smoking food over any heat source, indoor or outdoor, with a compact size of 7" x 11" x 3.5".
Ideal for enhancing the flavor and tenderness of salmon when smoked, grilled, or baked.
Ideal for those seeking high-quality, fresh smoked salmon from Scotland delivered quickly with overnight guaranteed shipping.
The product is ideal for enhancing the flavor and texture of fish through a gourmet brining process.
Ideal for use in delis, bakeries or catering events as a serving board for smoked salmon and other food items.

1. Billowpro Pellet Smoker Tray: Ultimate Smoke Perfection!

Transform your ordinary grill into a fantastic smoker with Kaduf’s pellet smoker tray! This easy-to-use accessory lets you add that delicious and savory smoke flavor to any type of meat, fish, or cheese. It works great for both cold and hot smoking, making it perfect for everything from ribs to cheese. Plus, it’s safe, easy to use, and produces lots of smoke for up to 12 hours.

Made from high-quality stainless steel, Kaduf’s pellet smoker tray is built to last. It’s compatible with any kind of pellets or wood chips, including cherry, hickory, apple, mesquite, and pecan. Plus, it’s easy to clean and works with any grill or smoker, including charcoal, gas, electric, portable, and pellet models.

With Kaduf’s pellet smoker tray, you can smoke like a pro without any fancy tricks or tools. Simply fill the tray with your favorite pellets, place it on the grill, and let the smoke do the work. In just 10 minutes, you can start smoking your favorite dishes and impressing everyone with your delicious and healthy creations. Try it now and take your grilling game to the next level!

Pros

  • Transforms any grill into a smoker
  • Works great for both cold and hot smoking
  • Easy to use and clean
  • Made from high-quality stainless steel
  • Compatible with any type of pellets or wood chips

Cons

  • – May not work as well with some types of grills or smokers

2. Camerons Smoker Box: Perfect For Indoor/outdoor Cooking

Enjoy delicious smoked meals in the comfort of your home with the Camerons Original Stovetop Smoker. This 11” x 15” x 3.5” smoker includes a stainless steel smoker, stick-free rack, drip pan, lid, recipe guide, and bonus apple, alder, and hickory smoking wood pints. It can be used on any heat source, including gas, electric, campfire, or barbecue grill, making it perfect for indoor and outdoor use.

The smoker is easy to use – simply line the tray with any flavor of Camerons Fine Smoking Chips, place your ingredients on the cook rack, and place it over heat for a perfectly smoked meal. The smoking box is designed to keep food moist while smoking, and the lid keeps smoke inside to infuse your food with rich wood flavors.

Not only can the Camerons Stovetop Smoker be used for smoking, but it also doubles as a steamer, poacher, or roasting pan. It is dishwasher safe for easy clean up, and all components nest inside the smoker for convenient storage. The handles fold away for easy storage as well. With this revolutionary design, you can enjoy delicious smoked meals prepared in the comfort and convenience of your own home.

Pros

  • Can be used on any heat source – gas, electric, campfire, or barbecue grill
  • Doubles as a steamer, poacher, or roasting pan
  • Keeps food moist while smoking
  • Easy to clean – dishwasher safe
  • Convenient storage with nesting components and foldable handles

Cons

  • – May not be large enough for bigger meals

3. Ippinka Smoke Wood Chips, Compressed, Made From Apple Tree, 120g

The Japanese Smoke Wood Block for grills and smokers is an excellent product to add a subtle smoky flavor to grilled dishes. Made from finely ground apple wood chips, it enhances the flavor and aroma of foods without being overpowering. This versatile product is perfect for chicken, delicate white-fleshed fish, and other types of meat. The block can be used whole or broken down further into smaller pieces, depending on the desired intensity of the smoky flavor. It burns for about 2 and a half hours, making it a long-lasting option for your grilling and smoking needs. The dimensions of the block are 7.5 x 1 x 1 in, making it easy to handle and use on any grill or smoker.

Take your grilling game to the next level with the Japanese Smoke Wood Block. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice griller, this product is perfect for anyone looking to add a subtle smoky flavor to their dishes. Its finely ground apple wood chips produce a subtle sweet aroma that will complement any type of meat or fish. The block's versatility allows you to use it whole or break it down into smaller pieces depending on your preference. With a burning time of about 2 and a half hours, you can enjoy the smoky flavor for longer. Its dimensions of 7.5 x 1 x 1 in make it a convenient size for any grill or smoker.

If you're looking for a way to add a subtle smoky flavor to your grilled dishes, the Japanese Smoke Wood Block is the perfect solution. Made from finely ground apple wood chips, it enhances the flavor and aroma of foods without being overpowering. This block is excellent for chicken, delicate white-fleshed fish, and other types of meat. It can be used whole or broken down into smaller pieces, depending on your desired intensity of the smoky flavor. The block burns for about 2 and a half hours, making it a long-lasting option for your grilling and smoking needs. With dimensions of 7.5 x 1 x 1 in, it is a manageable size for any grill or smoker.

Pros

  • Made from finely ground apple wood chips that produce a subtle sweet aroma
  • Enhances the flavor and aroma of foods without overpowering them
  • Versatile product that can be used whole or broken down into smaller pieces
  • Burns for about 2 and a half hours, making it a long-lasting option for grilling and smoking
  • Convenient dimensions of 7.5 x 1 x 1 in make it easy to handle and use on any grill or smoker

4. Smokepro Pellet Smoker – 5 Hr Billowing Smoke

The Pellet Smoker is a versatile accessory that provides additional smoke to any grill and smoker, including gas, charcoal, electric, and portable grills. It is perfect for smoking cheese, nuts, and a variety of meats, such as steaks, chicken, pork, lamb, ham, and fish. The smoker tube can provide billowing smoke for up to 5 hours.

Made of 100% high-quality 304 stainless steel, the 12-inch smoker tube is anti-rust, heat-resistant, and durable, making it safe to use repeatedly without breaking or bending easily. With an improved hexagon design, the smoker tube will not roll up or fall off the grill, providing a better and safer smoke absorption effect that can give your food a unique taste using different types of wood pellets. Moreover, it does not leave any residue that can contaminate your food.

This Pellet Smoker is not only a great tool for smoking but also a perfect gift for family and friends who love BBQ. It comes with a cleaning brush and an S-type hook that can be used to hang your grill tools, making it convenient for storage.

Pros

  • Can be used with any type of smoker or grill
  • Provides up to 5 hours of billowing smoke
  • Made of 100% high-quality 304 stainless steel that is anti-rust, heat-resistant, and durable
  • Improved hexagon design prevents rolling or falling off the grill
  • Does not leave any residue that can contaminate food
  • Comes with a cleaning brush and S-type hook for convenient storage

5. Smokemaster: Stainless Steel Stovetop Smoker Kit

The Camerons Original Large Stovetop Smoker is a versatile kitchen appliance that allows you to smoke meat, fish, vegetables, and more right on your stovetop or grill. With its revolutionary design, you can enjoy delicious smoked meals from the comfort and convenience of your home. This stovetop smoker measures 11” x 15” x 3.5” and includes a stainless steel smoker, a stick-free rack, a drip pan, a lid, a recipe guide, and bonus oak and hickory smoking wood pints.

Using the Camerons Stovetop Smoker is easy – simply line the tray with any flavor of Camerons Fine Smoking Chips, add your ingredients to the cook rack, and place it over heat for a perfectly smoked meal. The smoking box is designed to keep food moist while smoking, and the lid keeps smoke inside to infuse food with rich wood flavors. You can use this stovetop smoker on any heat source, whether it be gas, electric, campfire, or BBQ grill. It even doubles as a steamer, poacher, or roasting pan.

Cleaning up after using the Camerons Stovetop Smoker is a breeze. It is dishwasher safe for easy clean up, and all components nest inside the smoker when not in use. The handles fold away for easy storage, making it a convenient addition to any kitchen.

Pros

  • Can be used on any heat source
  • Doubles as a steamer, poacher, or roasting pan
  • Easy to use and clean
  • Includes bonus oak and hickory smoking wood pints

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for larger items

6. Mini Gourmet Smoker: Any Heat, Anywhere

The Stovetop Smoker is a versatile cooking tool that allows you to smoke meat, fish, and vegetables right on your stovetop. It can also be used as a steamer, poacher or roasting pan, making it a great addition to any kitchen. With this smoker, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of smoked food without having to leave your home. The smoking box is designed to nest inside the smoker when not in use, and the handles fold away for easy storage. This makes it a great option for those with limited kitchen space.

The smoker can be used on any heat source, including gas, electric, or campfire. It comes with a stick-free rack, drip pan, lid, bonus wood chip samples, and a recipe guide. The seamless stainless steel construction ensures durability and makes it dishwasher safe. Whether you're a seasoned smoker or a beginner, this stovetop smoker is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the rich and smoky flavors of smoked food.

In addition to its versatility, the Stovetop Smoker makes a great Father's Day gift for any dad who loves to cook. With this smoker, he can enjoy the delicious flavors of smoked food without having to leave his home. So why wait? Order your Stovetop Smoker today and start enjoying the rich and smoky flavors of smoked food right in your own kitchen.

Pros

  • Versatile cooking tool that allows you to smoke, steam, poach or roast food
  • Can be used on any heat source including gas, electric, or campfire
  • Comes with a stick-free rack, drip pan, lid, bonus wood chip samples, and a recipe guide
  • Seamless stainless steel construction ensures durability and makes it dishwasher safe
  • The smoking box nests inside the smoker and handles fold away for easy storage

Cons

  • – May not produce the same smoky flavor as an outdoor smoker
  • – May require ventilation due to smoking process

7. Alaskan Salmon Brine Mix: Smoky, Grill, Bake!

This brine mix is made with pure maple sugar that gives your meat a sweet and savory flavor. It is perfect for smoking, grilling, or baking salmon and other fish. Each packet of brine mix makes one gallon of brine, with a total of two gallons per item. The easy-to-follow instructions ensure that your meat is juicy, tender, and deliciously flavorful. This product is proudly made in the USA.

Looking for a chef's choice of brine mix? Look no further than this product! Made with pure maple sugar, it gives your meat a unique and delicious flavor. Whether you're smoking, grilling or baking salmon and other fish, this brine mix is perfect for you. With easy-to-follow instructions and two packets of brine mix per item, it's easy to use and will leave your meat juicy and tender. And the best part? This product is proudly made in the USA!

This brine mix is a meat choice that is perfect for smoking, grilling or baking salmon and other fish. Made with pure maple sugar, it gives your meat a sweet and savory flavor that is sure to please. The easy-to-follow instructions and two packets of brine mix per item make it simple to use and each packet makes one gallon of brine, with a total of two gallons per item. Your fish will turn out juicy, tender, and deliciously flavorful. And as a bonus, this product is proudly made in the USA!

Pros

  • Made with pure maple sugar for a unique and delicious flavor
  • Easy-to-follow instructions and two packets of brine mix per item
  • Perfect for smoking, grilling, or baking salmon and other fish
  • Leaves meat juicy, tender, and deliciously flavorful
  • Proudly made in the USA

8. Smoked Salmon Sliced From Scotland – Approx. 2 Lb – Overnight Guaranteed

Experience the exceptional taste of Scottish smoked salmon, a world-renowned delicacy that's perfect for your finest entertaining. Pinnacle of Scotland has perfected the smoking process using oak wood chips, resulting in a delicate, tender flesh that boasts a gorgeous orange-pink color, setting it apart from its Norwegian counterpart. The salmon undergoes a meticulous process of drying, curing with salt and sugar, and cold smoking to achieve its subtle yet exquisite flavor. This product comes pre-sliced and is best kept refrigerated. Indulge in the luxurious taste of Scottish smoked salmon today!

Pros

  • Expertly smoked using oak wood chips for a delicate, tender flesh
  • Meticulous process of drying, curing with salt and sugar, and cold smoking for a subtle, exquisite flavor
  • Beautiful orange-pink color sets it apart from Norwegian smoked salmon
  • Pre-sliced and ready to serve for your convenience
  • Perfect for entertaining or indulging in a luxurious meal

9. Hi Mountain Seasonings Gourmet Fish Brine – Create Juicy, Tender, And Flavorful Fish

Introducing the ultimate fish brine mix by an American company, perfect for smoking, grilling or baking all varieties of fish. Made with a unique blend of brown sugar and maple sugar, this brine mix guarantees a sweet savory flavor that will make your fish juicy, tender and deliciously flavorful. Each item contains two packets of brine mix and easy to follow instructions, making it perfect for home cooks and chefs alike. With each packet making one gallon of brine, you can create up to two gallons of brine mix. Best of all, this fish brine mix is proudly made in the USA, ensuring top-notch quality and safety.

Elevate your fish game with this top-rated fish brine mix that is specifically formulated by chefs to bring out the best flavor in your fish. The brown sugar and maple sugar in this brine mix add a unique touch of sweetness that makes your fish taste amazing. This versatile brine mix can be used for smoking, grilling, or baking all types of fish, making it perfect for any occasion. With easy-to-follow instructions and two packets of brine mix, you can make up to two gallons of brine. So, whether you're a pro or a novice cook, this fish brine mix is a must-have in your kitchen.

Get ready to experience mouth-watering fish like never before with this high-quality fish brine mix. Made with brown sugar and maple sugar, this brine mix adds a sweet and savory flavor to your fish that will leave your taste buds wanting more. This fish brine mix is perfect for smoking, grilling, or baking all types of fish, so you can enjoy perfectly cooked fish every time. Each item contains two packets of brine mix and easy-to-follow instructions, making it easy to create up to two gallons of brine mix. Proudly made in the USA, this fish brine mix is a premium product that is trusted by chefs and home cooks alike.

Pros

  • Adds a unique sweet and savory flavor to fish
  • Perfect for smoking, grilling, or baking all types of fish
  • Easy-to-follow instructions and two packets of brine mix
  • Each packet makes one gallon of brine (two gallons total)
  • Proudly made in the USA

10. 6" X 8" Smoked Salmon Fish Charcuterie Boards Gold / Silver Food Vacuum Deli Bakery Boards 50 Pack

Introducing the Smoked Salmon Fish Board, a versatile and practical addition to your kitchen. Measuring 6 inches by 8 inches, this fish board is perfect for serving smoked salmon, sushi, or any other delicacy that requires an elegant presentation. The board is reversible, with one side featuring a luxurious gold color and the other a sleek silver tone. This allows you to choose the color that best complements your food and decor.

Made from high-quality wet-resistant cardboard, the Smoked Salmon Fish Board is durable and long-lasting. It also features a laminated foil layer on each side, which helps to protect it from moisture and grease. This makes it ideal for both commercial and home use, as it can withstand heavy use and still look great.

In addition to its practical features, the Smoked Salmon Fish Board is also an attractive and stylish serving option. Its gold and silver colors add a touch of elegance to any setting, and its sleek design complements any decor. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just looking for a new way to serve your favorite foods, the Smoked Salmon Fish Board is sure to impress.

Overall, the Smoked Salmon Fish Board is a must-have for any chef or home cook who values style, durability, and practicality. With its reversible design, wet-resistant cardboard construction, and laminated foil layers, it is the perfect choice for serving smoked salmon and other delicacies in style.

Pros

  • Reversible design with gold and silver color options
  • Made from high-quality wet-resistant cardboard with laminated foil layers
  • Durable and long-lasting, ideal for both commercial and home use
  • Attractive and stylish design adds a touch of elegance to any setting

Best Woods For Smoking Fish FAQs

Are there any potential health risks associated with using certain types of wood for smoking fish?

Yes, there are potential health risks associated with using certain types of wood for smoking fish. The smoke produced during the smoking process contains compounds that can be harmful to human health. For example, using softwoods like pine, cedar, and spruce can release high levels of creosote, a compound that is known to cause cancer. Additionally, using wood that has been treated with chemicals like pesticides or fungicides can also pose a health risk.

To avoid these risks, it is recommended to use hardwoods like oak, hickory, and fruitwoods for smoking fish. These types of woods produce a cleaner smoke with fewer harmful compounds. It is also important to source wood from a reputable supplier and to avoid using any wood that has been chemically treated.

Overall, smoking fish can be a delicious and healthy way to prepare seafood, but it is important to be mindful of the type of wood used and to take steps to minimize any potential health risks.

Can you mix different types of wood when smoking fish?

Yes, you can mix different types of wood when smoking fish. In fact, mixing different types of wood can enhance the flavor and aroma of the fish. However, it is important to choose the right combination of woods that complement each other and do not overpower the fish. Some popular wood combinations for smoking fish are apple and cherry, hickory and maple, and mesquite and oak. Apple and cherry woods provide a sweet and fruity flavor, while hickory and maple offer a rich and smoky taste. Mesquite and oak woods are perfect for adding a bold and robust flavor to the fish. It is advisable to experiment with different wood combinations to find the perfect blend for your taste. When smoking fish, it is also important to remember to soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before adding them to the smoker to prevent them from burning too quickly.

How long should fish be smoked using different types of wood?

The length of time that fish should be smoked will depend on various factors such as the type and size of fish, the temperature used for smoking, and the type of wood used. Generally, smoking fish may take anywhere between 1 to 4 hours, but this can differ based on the aforementioned factors. For instance, cold-smoking fish can take longer than hot-smoking, and larger fish may require more time to smoke than smaller ones.

When it comes to the type of wood used for smoking fish, there are different options available, each with its unique flavor profile. For example, alder wood is a popular choice for smoking salmon, while hickory wood is ideal for smoking stronger flavored fish like tuna or mackerel. Applewood is also a great choice for smoking fish as it provides a sweet and mild flavor that complements the fish's natural taste.

In conclusion, the length of time that fish should be smoked will depend on several factors, including the type of fish, size, temperature, and wood used. It is advisable to experiment with different smoking techniques and wood types to find the perfect combination for your taste preference.

What are the differences in flavor between various woods used for smoking fish?

The type of wood used for smoking fish can have a significant impact on the flavor of the final product. Different woods impart different flavors and aromas, so it is important to choose the right wood for your desired outcome.

For example, alder wood is commonly used for smoking salmon and other fatty fish, as it has a mild and slightly sweet flavor that complements the delicate flavors of the fish. Hickory, on the other hand, is a stronger and more intense wood that is often used for smoking heavier meats like pork or beef. Oak is another popular choice for smoking fish, as it has a strong, smoky flavor that can add depth and complexity to the final product.

Other woods that can be used for smoking fish include cherry, apple, mesquite, and maple. Each of these woods has its own unique flavor profile, so it's important to experiment and find the one that works best for you.

Ultimately, the key to a successful smoked fish dish is finding the right balance of smoke and flavor. Whether you prefer a mild and subtle flavor or a bold and intense one, there is a wood out there that can help you achieve your desired outcome.

What types of wood are best for smoking fish?

When it comes to smoking fish, selecting the right type of wood can make all the difference in the flavor of the final product. The best types of wood for smoking fish are those that impart a mild, sweet flavor without overpowering the delicate taste of the fish. Some of the most popular woods for smoking fish include alder, cherry, apple, and hickory.

Alder wood is a favorite among many fish smokers, as it produces a subtle, slightly sweet flavor that complements the natural taste of the fish. Cherry wood is another great option, as it adds a hint of fruitiness to the smoke. Apple wood is also a popular choice, as it produces a light, sweet smoke that pairs well with most types of fish.

If you prefer a stronger flavor, hickory wood can also be used for smoking fish. However, it is important to use it sparingly, as it can easily overwhelm the taste of the fish. Whatever type of wood you choose, be sure to use only hardwoods that are free from resin and chemicals, as these can negatively affect the taste and quality of your smoked fish.

Leave a Comment