Here’s how to create these delicious crispy fried fish sandwiches:

1. Prep the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve the desired crispiness.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Prepare Wet Mixture: In another bowl, pour the buttermilk.
4. Dredge the Fish: First, dip each fish fillet in the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Next, coat each piece in the flour mixture, pressing down to ensure a good coverage.
5. Heat Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat around ¼ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers but does not smoke.
6. Fry the Fish: Carefully place the coated fish fillets in the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you can do this in batches if needed.
7. Drain and Cool: Once fried, transfer the fish to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let them cool slightly.
8. Toast the Buns: If desired, toast the hamburger buns in the same skillet for a minute or until golden.
9. Assemble the Sandwiches: On the bottom half of each bun, place a layer of lettuce, then add a crispy fish fillet. Top with pickles, if using, and a dollop of tartar sauce before placing the top bun on.
10. Serve: Enjoy your hungry guests’ reactions as you serve these crispy fried fish sandwiches fresh!