Baked Whole Fish

Directions

1. 1
   Soak the fish in cold, salted water for 15-30 minutes; drain and dry slightly.
2. 2
   Preheat oven to 400.
3. 3
   Season cavity with lemon slices, celery, onion, salt, and pepper and 2 TBS lemon juice.
4. 4
   Close the fish and place bacon strips on top or around fish.
5. 5
   Sprinkle with salt, pepper, onion salt and remainder of lemon juice.
6. 6
   Cover with pats of butter and bake until flesh is white and flakes apart with fork (about 30 minutes for a 2 1/2 pound fish or 40-45 minutes for a 3 pounder).
7. 7
   the fish may be broiled at the end to brown the bacon.
8. 8
   Cut into 1 1/2 inch wide sections and serve with lemon wedges.
9. 9
   Serves 2-4, depending on size of fish.
10. 10
    Note: Other vegetables such as potatoes and tomatoes may be cooked with the fish if desired.