Cups & Temps

How long does cooked fish last?

Cooked fish lasts 3-4 days in the fridge at 40°F or below. Frozen, it keeps best quality 4-6 months and stays safe indefinitely at 0°F.

Counter2 hoursrefrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
Fridge3–4 daysat 40°F or below
Freezer4–6 monthsbest quality

Storage times from USDA, FoodSafety.gov, FDA and university extension services. Checked .

When does it need to be eaten?

Pick the food and the day it went into the fridge or freezer. We count forward using USDA storage times.

Where

Pick a date to see the use-by day.

How long does cooked fish last in the fridge?

3–4 days at 40°F (4°C) or below.

Can you freeze cooked fish?

Yes. For best quality use it within 4–6 months. Best quality; safe indefinitely at 0°F.

  • Freeze in airtight containers to limit odor and drying.
  • Reheat gently; flakes dry out quickly.

After thawing: Thaw in the fridge and use within 3-4 days, or reheat straight from frozen to 165°F; fridge-thawed portions can be refrozen.

How long can cooked fish sit out?

No more than 2 hours at room temperature, or 1 hour when it's above 90°F (USDA's 2-hour rule). After that, throw it out.

How to tell if cooked fish has gone bad

  • Sour, rancid or ammonia odor
  • Slimy texture
  • Mold

Bacteria that cause food poisoning don't always change the look or smell of food, so go by the storage times above. When in doubt, throw it out.

Questions people ask

How long does leftover salmon last?

Cooked salmon, like other cooked fish, lasts 3-4 days in the fridge.

Can you eat cold leftover fish?

Yes, if it was refrigerated within 2 hours and is within 3-4 days.

How long does cooked fish last in the refrigerator?

Cooked fish keeps 3–4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.

How long can cooked fish be kept in the fridge?

Cooked fish keeps 3–4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.

How long can you keep cooked fish in the fridge?

Cooked fish keeps 3–4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.

How long can cooked fish stay in the fridge?

Cooked fish keeps 3–4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.

How long does cooked fish last in the fridge?

Cooked fish keeps 3–4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.

Sources