Fishmongers would sell fresh fish that had been caught that day. They would typically set up their stalls in the market square or near the harbor. Fishmongers would also sell smoked and salted fish, which could be stored for longer periods of time.
2. Preparing fish
Fishmongers would clean and prepare fish for their customers. This included removing the head, tail, and fins, and gutting the fish. Fishmongers would also sometimes salt or marinade fish before selling it.
3. Cooking fish
Some fishmongers would also cook fish for their customers. This could include boiling, frying, or grilling the fish. Fishmongers would typically serve fish with bread or vegetables.
4. Delivering fish
Fishmongers would sometimes deliver fish to their customers' homes. This was especially common for customers who lived in wealthy households. Fishmongers would typically charge a delivery fee for this service.
5. Selling other seafood
In addition to fish, fishmongers would sometimes sell other seafood, such as shellfish, squid, and octopus. They would also sometimes sell fish eggs, which are commonly known as caviar.
6. Trading fish
Fishmongers would sometimes trade fish with other merchants. This was especially common for fishmongers who lived in coastal areas. Fishmongers would trade fresh fish for other goods, such as salt, spices, and cloth.
7. Storing fish
Fishmongers would need to store fish in a cool and dry place in order to keep it fresh. They would typically use ice or salt to preserve the fish. Fishmongers would also sometimes smoke or dry fish in order to preserve it.
8. Selling fish to restaurants
Fishmongers would sometimes sell fish to restaurants. This was especially common for fishmongers who lived in large cities. Fishmongers would typically sell fish to restaurants at a wholesale price.