How to Build a Fish Cleaning Table

A fish cleaning table is a necessity for docks and fishing marinas. They allow your customers a convenient place to clean their fish, and can also offer a place for boaters to congregate after the catch. This means they can add some promotional value. Putting a banner or display near the table can improve the effectiveness of the advertising, you can also put your table near your dock tackle store or charter boat ticket windows.

Instructions

1

Cut your stainless steel metal posts to a height of 40 inches.

2

Cut one 3/4" thick maple or oak plywood sheet to a width of 3' by 2 1/2' or any other width you decide is appropriate for your dock's needs. Charter fishing docks on the ocean might want to consider a 4'-wide table or larger for filleting bigger fish.

3

Router the edges of the plywood sheet using a 1/4" simple round router bit.

4

Sand the sheet with 120 grit sand paper. Then prime and paint the board with high-gloss marine paint. Mix a smaller batch of the marine paint with 1 part sand, and 5 parts paint, then apply a second layer right on top to provide grip. Let dry over night.

5

Attach two 3" aluminum plates or mounting brackets to your tabletop in the center of each end. You will have to drill holes in the board and secure it with bolts, which we will cover up later. Attach two more brackets the same distance apart on the dock.

6

Weld the poles to the dock brackets using a TIG welder, then attach the tabletop to the poles, spot welding both in place with the help of an assistant. Check and level the table, then complete your weld.

7

Cut one strip of 1" by 3" wood and drill 1" holes into the bottom so it will fit over the bolts that are coming through the table top. Then secure it to the cleaning table surface using regular wood screws.

8

Paint this piece of wood using primer and marine paint to complete your secure, fillet table.