Dispatch

Ikejime is a Japanese method of humanely dispatching fish by spiking the brain, then destroying the spinal cord with a wire. It results in instant death and dramatically better flesh quality by preventing stress hormones and lactic acid buildup.

Massively. A fish dispatched immediately via brain spike (ikejime) and bled will have firmer, cleaner-tasting flesh that keeps longer compared to a fish that dies slowly. It's the single biggest factor in fish quality.

A brain spike (sharp pointed tool like Ikipik), and optionally a wire for spinal cord destruction. A sharp knife for bleeding the gills. That's it — simple tools, massive improvement in quality.

Each species has a slightly different brain location — generally between and slightly behind the eyes. Look for detailed species-specific guides. The key indicator of success is an immediate colour change and relaxation of the body.