Go Fish: Lenten Season Drives Up Friday Fish Fry Demand

It’s season of Lent for many Christians, and for them, that means Friday fish fries.

“You know, I think it’s really popular, and it continues to grow,” said Troy Reding, the owner/operator of Rock Elm Tavern in Plymouth. “Especially when you do something special for it.”

Rock Elm Tavern serves up a special order of bluegill, fries and a side of tartar sauce this time of year. It’s an item they sell exclusively on Fridays during Lent.

The bluegill at Rock Elm Tavern is only available on Fridays through April 7.

On a typical Friday, staff members say they get several dozen orders of the bluegill special, and that’s not counting the other fish items that customers gravitate toward as they abstain from eating meat on Fridays.

“I think it’s tradition,” Reding said of the Friday fish fries. “You know, people think of Wisconsin’s fish fry, and we have so many Wisconsinites that are over here, and supper clubs have become popular again. All revolve around this fish fry sort of theme.”

Rock Elm Tavern expects to sell more than 400 pounds of bluegill between now and April 7.

Related: Brooklyn Center American Legion Serves Up Walleye Special During Lent

Plymouth