Dry, flavorless fish can kill a cookout fast. You fire up the grill, lay out the fillets, and somehow end up with something that tastes more like cardboard than the ocean. That frustration hits hard when you’ve spent time and money on quality seafood. The best fish to grill on cedar plank changes that narrative completely. Cedar planks act as a barrier, locking in moisture and infusing a gentle, woodsy aroma that transforms ordinary fish into something memorable. Whether you’re working with salmon, trout, or halibut, this method delivers consistent, juicy results that make every meal feel like a win. For those looking to expand their grilling skills, check out this guide on how to use a smoker box with a gas grill to add even more depth to your outdoor cooking. Pairing the right fish with the right plank setup takes the guesswork out of grilling and puts confidence back on the menu.
Texture and fat content determine how well fish holds up on the plank. Salmon leads because its natural oils keep it moist and allow the cedar smoke to soak in beautifully. But trout and mahi-mahi also shine when handled right. The key is understanding that the best fish to grill on cedar plank isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer; it’s about matching the fish’s structure to the cooking method. Fatty fish forgive mistakes, while leaner cuts need a little more attention. Either way, the plank does most of the heavy lifting. For more ideas on pairing proteins, take a look at best chicken breast marinade for grill to round out your backyard feast.
Pros
- Adds a delicate, natural smoky flavor that enhances grilled fish, meat, and vegetables
- Works seamlessly on any grill or oven, giving you flexible cooking options
- Easy to use with minimal prep – just soak, place, and cook
- Eco-friendly and made in the USA from responsibly harvested Western Red Cedar
Cons
- Planks must be thoroughly soaked before each use to prevent burning or flare-ups
- Typically single-use, so you need to buy more for multiple grilling sessions
- Not suitable for high-heat searing; best for gentle smoking and roasting
If you love cooking salmon on the grill but want to take it up a notch, the Wildwood Grilling 12 Pack Cedar Planks are exactly what you need. These planks are made from Western Red Cedar, sourced and produced right here in the USA. They give your food a subtle, smoky wood flavor that plain grilling just can't match. Think of them as a simple way to bring that restaurant-quality taste to your backyard.
These planks are a perfect fit for backyard grillers, BBQ enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys outdoor entertaining. Whether you are cooking up salmon fillets for a weekend gathering or trying cedar-planked pork chops for a change, they deliver consistent results. You can use them on a gas grill, a charcoal smoker, or even in the oven. That versatility means you are not tied to one cooking method.
Real-world performance is all about flavor and ease. The cedar imparts a gentle smokiness that infuses the food evenly without overpowering it. You don't need to watch the heat like a hawk because these planks act as a buffer, reducing flare-ups and keeping the fish moist. Cleanup is trivial – just toss the used plank. There is no greasy grate to scrub.
Build quality? These planks are solid, food-grade cedar with no chemical treatments. They are cut to a uniform thickness so they don't warp or crack during cooking. Since they come in a pack of 12, you have plenty for multiple meals. The only preparation required is soaking them in water for at least an hour before grilling. This step is crucial to prevent the wood from burning up too quickly.
One realistic limitation is that these planks are generally single-use. After a cook, they char and absorb food residue, so you will need a new plank next time. Also, they are not designed for high-heat searing like a steak on a cast iron griddle. If you want that kind of crust, stick to direct heat. But for salmon, pork loin, or even grilled pineapple, they work beautifully.
Overall, if you enjoy grilled fish or want to impress guests with minimal effort, grab a pack of these cedar planks. They solve the problem of adding wood smoke without a dedicated smoker. For tailgating or camping? They are compact enough to pack along if you have a grill at the campsite. Just don't forget to bring a bucket for soaking. Reliable, flavorful, and built to last – at least for one delicious meal.
These cedar planks shine when cooking delicate proteins like salmon, white fish, or shrimp. The gentle heat and smoke keep the fish flaky and moist. But they are also great for pork tenderloin, chicken breasts, or even grilled vegetables like asparagus and zucchini. For a twist, try cedar-planked brie or fruit like pineapple rings. The wood adds a subtle sweetness that complements both savory and sweet dishes.
Use them on any grill: gas, charcoal, or propane. If you are tailgating or camping, you can even place them on a campfire grate as long as you control the heat. In the oven, they work well for baking salmon at 375°F. Just be sure to soak the plank thoroughly first.
After grilling, simply let the plank cool completely and then discard it. These planks are designed for single use – the wood absorbs flavors and oils during cooking, so reusing them could lead to off tastes or uneven smoking. Cleanup is as easy as tossing the charred plank in the trash. There is no scrubbing or soaking required. For longer storage of unused planks, keep them in a dry place away from moisture.
Pros
- Imparts authentic cedar-smoked flavor to foods without a smoker.
- Natural and food-safe construction with no artificial additives.
- Easy to use with any grill – gas, charcoal, or electric.
- Versatile for a variety of proteins and vegetables.
- USA-made quality ensures safety and performance.
Cons
- Planks are single-use; need to be replaced each cook.
- Requires soaking in water for 1-2 hours before grilling.
- Size may be too small for large fillets (consider larger size).
If you love grilling but want to add a subtle, smoky wood flavor without investing in a dedicated smoker, these Wildwood Grilling Western Red Cedar planks are a fantastic solution. They are essentially thin boards of natural cedar that you soak in water, place on your grill, and cook food directly on top. The wood smolders gently, releasing aromatic smoke that infuses your food with that classic Pacific Northwest taste. This 6-pack gives you plenty of cooks for weekend BBQs, camping trips, or tailgating sessions.
These planks are designed for anyone who enjoys outdoor cooking – backyard grillers, campers, tailgaters, RV owners, and patio cooks. They work on any grill: gas, charcoal, or even electric. For campers, they are lightweight and easy to pack. For tailgaters, they let you serve up restaurant-quality salmon or veggies right from the parking lot. The 5x11-inch size is perfect for individual fillets or servings for 3-4 people, making them ideal for small gatherings or family dinners.
In terms of cooking performance, these planks deliver consistent, gentle heat. Because the wood is soaked, it smolders rather than burns, creating a humid environment that keeps food moist. This is especially great for delicate items like salmon, which can dry out on a hot grill. The smoke flavor is mild but distinct – it won't overpower your food, just enhance it. You can also use them for beef, chicken, pork, vegetables, and even desserts like grilled peaches. The planks prevent sticking, so your food releases easily.
Build quality is a strong point here. Wildwood Grilling sources and manufactures these planks in the USA from 100% natural Western Red Cedar. There are no glues, chemicals, or fillers – just solid wood. This is important because some cheaper planks use incense cedar or glued-together scraps, which can be unsafe for grilling. These are certified food safe and free from harmful additives. The wood is smooth and evenly cut, so it sits flat on your grill grates.
Setup is simple: soak the plank in water for 1-2 hours (weigh it down if needed), then place it directly on the preheated grill. Add your seasoned food, close the lid, and let the smoke work its magic. Cleanup is even easier – just dispose of the used plank. No scrubbing grates or dealing with stuck-on food. The only real limitation is that each plank is single-use, so you'll go through the pack. Also, you need to plan ahead for soaking. For larger fillets, Wildwood offers a 7x15-inch size, so check your needs.
Overall, these grilling planks are a practical, affordable way to elevate your outdoor cooking. They are especially recommended for beginners who want to experiment with wood-fired flavor without a big investment, and for experienced grillers looking for a convenient way to add variety to their menu. Whether you're cooking on your backyard patio, at a campsite, or before the big game, these planks deliver reliable, tasty results.
Pros
- Authentic cedar smoke flavor that elevates grilled seafood and veggies
- Made in the USA from safe, non-toxic Western Red Cedar
- Easy to use - just soak, place on grill, and cook
- Versatile for many foods beyond salmon, including chicken, fruits, and desserts
Cons
- Single-use planks require pre-soaking and can only be used once
- Size may be too small for large whole fillets or big groups
- Not suitable for direct high-heat grilling; planks can catch fire if not monitored
Wildwood Grilling's Signature Cedar Grilling Planks are a fantastic way to bring that classic wood-fired aroma to your backyard barbecue or campsite grill. These planks are made from Western Red Cedar sourced and manufactured in the USA, so you don't have to worry about unknown wood species or toxic chemicals. The 5x11-inch size is perfect for grilling two to three servings of salmon, chicken, veggies, or even fruit and desserts.
For backyard grillers and outdoor entertainers, these planks offer a simple yet effective method to infuse food with delicate, earthy smoke. You don't need a dedicated smoker - just soak the plank for about an hour, place it on a preheated grill, add your food, and close the lid. The plank smolders gently, releasing aromatic smoke while the moisture inside the wood creates a gentle steam that keeps fish flaky and veggies tender.
In terms of cooking performance, the planks work best for low-to-medium heat grilling. They add a subtle but distinct cedar flavor that pairs beautifully with salmon, trout, shrimp, and even chicken breasts. I've also tried them with pineapple rings and peaches for a smoky-sweet dessert. The planks don't provide the same direct sear as a cast-iron grate, but that's not their purpose - they're all about flavor and moisture.
Build quality is solid. Each plank is cut from real cedar with a consistent thickness of about 3/8 inch, so they hold up well during grilling without splitting prematurely. Wildwood Grilling produces them in a food-safe facility using food-grade lubricants on machinery, which adds peace of mind. The planks are 100% natural with no additives or chemicals.
Setup is straightforward: soak the plank in water or another liquid (wine, apple juice) for at least one hour, then drain and place on a hot grill. Cleanup is just as easy - the plank is single-use, so you simply discard it after cooking. No scrubbing or scraping required. Storage is simple too; the pack of 12 planks takes up minimal space in your pantry or camping gear.
A realistic limitation is that these planks are disposable and only good for one cook. If you're feeding a large crowd, you might need multiple packs or the larger 7x15 size. Also, you need to watch the plank during grilling to prevent flare-ups if the wood gets too dry. But for a weekend BBQ with friends or a campfire salmon dinner, these planks deliver fantastic results. Highly recommended for any outdoor cook who loves that touch of wood smoke.
Pros
- Adds authentic smoke flavor without needing a smoker or extra equipment
- Thick cedar planks hold up well on hot grills, resisting warping or burning
- Simple to use—just soak the plank, add food, and grill for infallible flavor
- Works on nearly any grill, from propane camp stoves to offset smokers
Cons
- Single-use design means you'll need to replace after each cook—planks aren't reusable
- Planks can catch fire if not soaked long enough or if grill runs too hot
- May not provide as intense smoke flavor as a dedicated smoker for large briskets or ribs
Grill Gourmet Cedar Grilling Planks are a straightforward way to bring real wood-smoked flavor to your outdoor cooking without firing up a bulky smoker. Each 5.5x11 inch plank is cut from American cedar, sanded, and textured to maximize smoke release as the wood heats up. They work on virtually any grill—gas, charcoal, pellet, or even a campfire grate—making them a solid choice for backyard BBQs, camping trips, tailgates, or patio cooks.
These planks are best suited for salmon, trout, chicken breasts, pork chops, vegetables, or even cheese for a smoky appetizer. The thick 1/3-inch board releases steady cedar smoke for about 20–30 minutes on a medium-high grill, enough to infuse a mild, sweet woodiness without overpowering the food. You don't need to watch temperatures super closely—just soak the plank in water for at least an hour, place it on the grate, add your seasoned food, and close the lid. The plank acts as a natural barrier, so your food steams and smokes at the same time, staying moist inside while picking up a golden-brown exterior.
Build quality is solid for a natural wood product. These planks are sourced and manufactured in the USA, so you get consistent thickness, no splintering, and a clean cedar aroma. They don't warp or crack prematurely like thinner planks sometimes do. Since each plank is single-use, you avoid the hassle of scrubbing burnt wood residue—just toss it after cooking. That also means no cross-contamination between different foods, which is handy if you're cooking for people with allergies.
In terms of outdoor practicality, these planks shine for convenience. You don't need extra gear, special skills, or careful temperature control. They store flat in a pantry or camping bin, and the 12-pack covers several cooks or one big party. Cleanup is as quick as pulling the used plank off the grill and letting it cool before disposal. Grease and juices drip onto the plank instead of through the grates, so your grill stays cleaner overall—fewer flare-ups and less scrubbing.
Realistically, these aren't meant for low-and-slow smoking of large cuts like brisket or pork shoulder—they simply don't produce enough smoke volume for that job. Also, you need to soak the planks ahead of time, so last-minute grilling requires some planning. If you run the grill too hot (above 450°F), the plank may catch fire, so keep an eye on your temperature. But for quick outdoor cooks—especially fish and chicken—they deliver a consistent, pleasing wood-fired taste without any fuss.
If you enjoy grilling salmon on a cedar plank or want to try something different at your next tailgate or campsite meal, Grill Gourmet's thick planks are a reliable pick. They're affordable, easy to use, and produce smoky results that feel special without requiring a smoker or hours of your time. Keep a pack in your camping gear or backyard cabinet for spontaneous outdoor cooks that taste like you put in more effort than you did.
Pros
- Pre-soaked design eliminates soaking time – truly grab-and-go for quick grilling.
- Cedar wood adds authentic smoky flavor and keeps food moist, especially for fish and seafood.
- Planks are sturdy enough for direct grilling and double as attractive serving boards.
- Compact size (6.5x3.5 inches) fits small grills and is perfect for single portions or appetizers.
Cons
- Single-use only, so you’ll need multiple packs for larger gatherings or multiple cooks.
- Small plank size may not accommodate larger fillets or whole vegetables without cutting them down.
- Pre-soaked planks can produce more steam than dry planks, which may reduce intense smoke flavor for some purists.
If you love the rich, smoky flavor that comes from grilling on wood planks but hate the hassle of soaking and waiting, the Jaccard Ready 2 Grill Pre-Soaked Cedar Planks are exactly what you need. These are premium red cedar planks that come already soaked with the perfect amount of water, so you can skip the prep and get straight to cooking. Whether you’re a backyard griller, a tailgater, or a weekend camper, this simple product makes plank grilling easy and accessible.
These planks are best suited for anyone who wants to elevate their outdoor cooking without extra effort. Backyard BBQ enthusiasts will love using them for salmon, trout, or chicken breasts on a gas or charcoal grill. Campers and RV owners can toss a pack in the cooler for a quick, flavorful dinner at the campsite. Tailgaters can use them to serve up impressive appetizers or main dishes right from the grill to the table – the planks double as rustic serving boards.
When it comes to cooking performance, the cedar delivers a gentle, even heat that prevents delicate seafood from overcooking or falling apart. The pre-soaked plank creates a moist cooking environment, locking in natural juices and infusing a mild, sweet smokiness into the food. While it won’t produce the heavy smoke of a dedicated smoker, it’s perfect for quick grilling sessions where you want that wood-fired flavor without the long cook times. Heat consistency is solid across the plank surface, and there’s no issue with flare-ups because the plank acts as a barrier between the food and the flames.
Build quality is straightforward: these are thin but sturdy cedar planks with a smooth surface. They’re not meant to last – they are single-use – but that’s the trade-off for convenience. The high-tech packaging keeps them moist for up to two years, so you can store them in the pantry and grab a pack whenever the grill calls. No special storage or prep needed. Cleanup is a breeze since you simply throw the used plank away. No soaking, no scrubbing – just grill, serve, and toss.
One realistic limitation is the size: each plank measures 6.5 x 3.5 inches, which is fine for individual fillets or smaller portions, but you’ll likely need multiple planks for a family meal or a party. Also, because they’re pre-soaked, they generate a bit more steam initially, which can slightly mellow the smoke intensity compared to dry planks you soak yourself. But for the vast majority of home cooks and outdoor enthusiasts, the convenience far outweighs this minor detail.
Overall, the Jaccard Ready 2 Grill planks are a practical, no-fuss accessory that delivers real results. They’re ideal for anyone who wants to try plank grilling without the usual preparation and cleanup. Whether you’re cooking salmon on a Saturday afternoon, impressing guests with a cedar-plank chicken breast at a backyard party, or whipping up a quick campfire trout, these planks make it simple. For the price, they offer a great way to add variety to your outdoor cooking routine.
Pros
- Adds authentic smoky flavor without needing a smoker or special equipment
- USA-made from Western Red Cedar ensures quality and food safety
- Versatile - works with fish, chicken, veggies, fruit, and even desserts
- Easy to use - just soak, place on grill, and cook
Cons
- Single-use product - planks are disposable after one cook
- Requires pre-soaking for 1-2 hours before grilling
- Smaller size may not fit large whole fillets or big cuts of meat
If you love grilling salmon or other delicate proteins but want to add a subtle smoky flavor without firing up a smoker, the Wildwood Grilling Signature Cedar Grilling Planks are a fantastic tool for your backyard BBQ setup. These planks are made from 100% natural Western Red Cedar, sourced and manufactured right here in the USA. That means you get a clean, food-safe product with no mystery woods or toxic additives - just pure wood that infuses your food with a gentle, earthy aroma and taste.
These planks are best suited for backyard grillers, patio cooks, and outdoor entertainers who enjoy cooking fish, seafood, chicken, veggies, or even fruit on their gas or charcoal grill. They're also great for campers and tailgaters who want to bring a touch of gourmet flavor to their outdoor meals without hauling a smoker. The 5x11 inch size is perfect for 2-3 servings of protein, making them ideal for small gatherings or weeknight dinners on the grill.
In terms of cooking performance, cedar planks work by creating a gentle steam and smoke barrier between the food and the grill grates. As the plank heats up, it releases aromatic oils that infuse the food with a delicate, woodsy flavor. This method is especially good for salmon, which stays moist and flaky while picking up that signature smoky taste. The planks also work well with chicken breasts, shrimp, scallops, sliced veggies, and even pineapple or peaches for a sweet-smoky dessert. You don't need precise temperature control - just a medium heat on your grill (around 350-400°F) and you're good to go.
Build quality is solid - these are thick, sturdy planks that hold up well during cooking. They're made from Western Red Cedar, which is naturally resistant to cracking and splintering when soaked properly. The planks come in a 2-pack, so you get two uses right out of the box. They're also food-safe, produced in a facility that uses food-grade lubricants and no chemicals or additives. That's a big plus for anyone who cares about what goes into their food.
Setup is straightforward: soak the plank in water for 1-2 hours (or up to 4 hours for more smoke), then place it directly on the grill grates. After a few minutes, the plank will start to smoke, and you can lay your food on top. Cleanup is easy - just discard the used plank after cooking. No scrubbing grates or dealing with stuck-on food. Storage is simple too - keep the unused plank in a dry place until you're ready to use it.
One realistic limitation is that these planks are single-use, so you'll need to buy more for multiple cooks. Also, the 5x11 size is on the smaller side, so if you're cooking a whole side of salmon or a large roast, you might want to look for the larger 7x15 planks from the same brand. But for most home cooks and outdoor enthusiasts, this 2-pack is a convenient and affordable way to experiment with plank grilling. If you enjoy trying new techniques on your grill and want to impress your guests with restaurant-quality salmon or veggies, these cedar planks are a solid buy.
These cedar planks shine when you want to add a delicate smoky flavor to foods that might otherwise dry out or stick to the grill. They're perfect for grilling salmon fillets, trout, or other fish - the plank keeps the fish moist while infusing it with a gentle cedar aroma. You can also use them for chicken breasts, shrimp skewers, scallops, or even thick-cut vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus. For a sweet treat, try grilling pineapple rings or peach halves on a cedar plank for a smoky caramelized dessert.
These planks are ideal for backyard BBQs where you want to offer something a little special without a lot of extra work. They also work great for camping trips - just soak the plank in a stream or cooler before cooking over a campfire or portable grill. Tailgaters can use them on a gas grill at the stadium parking lot to impress friends with gourmet grilled fish. And for patio cooks who love experimenting with different wood flavors, cedar is a classic choice that pairs well with a wide range of foods.
Cleaning up after using cedar grilling planks is about as easy as it gets. Once you're done cooking, simply remove the plank from the grill and let it cool. The plank is single-use, so you can toss it in the trash or compost bin. There's no need to scrub grates or deal with stuck-on food - the plank acts as a disposable cooking surface. Just make sure to discard any charred or heavily burned pieces. For storage, keep the unused plank in a dry, cool place away from moisture. If you plan to use it within a few weeks, a pantry or cupboard works fine. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or damp areas to prevent warping or mold.
Pros
- Genuine Western Red Cedar delivers authentic smoky aroma and taste
- XL size accommodates large fillets or multiple items at once
- Easy to use with any grill - gas, charcoal, or campfire
- 8 planks per pack provide plenty for several grilling sessions
- Sourced and made in the USA for quality assurance
Cons
- Planks need to be soaked before use, which requires some planning
- Not reusable indefinitely - planks char and degrade after one or two uses
- May not impart as intense smoke flavor as a dedicated smoker for longer cooks
If you love grilling fish, chicken, or vegetables but want that deep, woodsy smoke flavor without firing up a smoker, the Wildwood Grilling Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks are a fantastic choice. These XL planks measure 7 by 15 inches, giving you plenty of room for a whole salmon fillet or several chicken breasts. They're designed to be soaked in water for about an hour, then placed directly on your grill grates. As the planks heat up, they release fragrant cedar smoke that gently cooks and flavors whatever you put on top.
These planks are ideal for backyard grillers, campers, tailgaters, and anyone who enjoys outdoor cooking. They work beautifully on gas grills, charcoal grills, and even over a campfire, making them versatile for patio parties or campsite dinners. The natural cedar smoke pairs especially well with salmon, trout, and other fish, but don't hesitate to try them with chicken, pork chops, or veggies like asparagus and bell peppers. The result is a subtle, smoky taste that enhances without overpowering.
Using these planks is straightforward. Soak them for an hour, place your seasoned food on top, and put the plank on a preheated grill. The wood chars and smolders, creating a gentle heat that cooks evenly while infusing smoke. You don't need to flip the food, which keeps delicate fish intact. Cleanup is simple - just discard the used plank. While you can reuse a plank if it's not too charred, most folks find one use per plank is easiest.
One thing to keep in mind is that planks are a one-time or limited-use product, so you'll need to stock up for frequent grilling. The 8-pack gives you a good start, but if you entertain often, you might want to buy multiple packs. Also, the smoke flavor is milder than what you'd get from a dedicated smoker, so if you're after intense, long-smoked flavor, you may want to combine planks with a smoke box or wood chips.
Build quality is solid - these are real Western Red Cedar, sourced and made in the USA. They're free from chemicals or glues, so you're getting pure wood that's safe for cooking. The planks are sturdy enough to hold up during grilling, though they will char and may crack slightly after use. That's normal and expected.
Overall, the Wildwood Grilling Western Red Cedar Grilling Planks are a practical, affordable way to add authentic smoky flavor to your outdoor cooking. They're especially great for salmon lovers and anyone who wants to impress at a backyard BBQ without extra hassle. If you enjoy grilling fish or want to try something new on the grill, these planks are a solid buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reuse cedar grilling planks?
No, cedar planks are designed for single use only. Reusing them can introduce bacteria and create uneven smoke. After grilling, the plank absorbs moisture and oils from the fish, making it unsuitable for another round. Always start fresh for best flavor and safety.
How long should I soak cedar planks before grilling?
Soak planks for at least 1 hour, but 2 hours is better if you have time. Submerge them completely in water, or add apple juice or wine for extra flavor. Pre-soaking prevents the wood from catching fire and produces a steady, gentle smoke that infuses the fish.
What type of fish works best on a cedar plank?
Fatty fish like salmon, arctic char, and trout are top choices. Their high oil content keeps them moist and helps absorb the smoky cedar flavor. Leaner white fish like halibut or cod can work if oiled well, but they require careful timing to avoid dryness.
Do I need to oil the cedar plank before grilling?
Oiling the plank is optional but helpful. Lightly brush the surface with vegetable oil or olive oil to reduce sticking and add a subtle richness. This also helps the fish release cleanly when done, especially with delicate fillets.
Can I grill chicken or vegetables on a cedar plank?
Yes, cedar planks work well with chicken, vegetables, and even fruits. The smoke adds a delicate, earthy note that pairs nicely with mild flavors. For chicken, try pairing it with a marinade from our best chicken kabob recipe for a complete meal.

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