What word means to prepare a fish?

There isn't one single word that perfectly encompasses all aspects of "preparing a fish." It depends on what you mean by "prepare." Here are some options depending on the context:

For cleaning and gutting:

* Dress: This is the most common term for removing the scales, guts, and head.

* Clean: This is a more general term that can also include scaling and gutting.

* Gut: This specifically refers to removing the internal organs.

* Scale: This refers to removing the scales from the fish.

For cooking:

* Prepare: This is a very general term and can refer to any steps involved in making the fish ready to cook.

* Season: This refers to adding spices and herbs.

* Marinate: This refers to soaking the fish in a marinade.

* Fillet: This refers to removing the bones and slicing the fish into thin pieces.

* Pan-fry: This is a specific cooking method.

* Bake: This is another specific cooking method.

Other:

* Catch: This refers to the initial act of getting the fish.

* Process: This is a broad term that can refer to any steps involved in preparing the fish, from catching to cooking.

The best word to use will depend on the specific context and what you are trying to communicate.