Select a slab of sweet hardwood (birch, maple, apple) 2 or 3 inches thick, 2 foot long and somewhat wider than the opened fish. Prop it in front of a bed of coals until it is sizzling hot or place in the fire to char. Split the fish down the back but do not cut through the belly skin. Clean and wipe it quite dry. Grease the plank and spread the fish out on it like an open book, the skin side down. A few pieces of bacon may be spread over the fish for basting. Secure the fish to the plank with pegs whittled from hardwood or with wire nails. Prop before a reflector fire. When the fish becomes flaky it is done. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, lemon juice and butter and serve while hot.
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