During Lent, many Catholics do not eat meat on Fridays. Because of this tradition, fast-food restaurants often add fish items to their menus for a short time.
Instead of choosing a grilled cheese sandwich, many customers turn to fish sandwiches. This year, several large chains are bringing back popular seafood items — most made with wild-caught Alaskan pollock.
Here is a simple guide to some of the fish options available this Lenten season.
Wendy’s: Crispy Panko Fish Sandwich
Wendy’s has brought back its Crispy Panko Fish Sandwich for Lent.
The sandwich features a wild-caught Alaskan pollock fillet coated in crispy panko breadcrumbs. The fish has a mild, buttery taste with hints of garlic and onion seasoning. It is served on a bun with toppings.
The company says this sandwich has built a loyal fan base over the years.
Wendy’s suggests pairing it with:
- Hot & Crispy fries
- Cheese Fries
- Chive Baked Potato
The sandwich will be available until Easter.
Bojangles: Bojangler Fish Sandwich
Bojangles has also brought back its Bojangler Fish Sandwich for the Lenten season.
The original sandwich includes:
- Crispy, panko-breaded Alaskan pollock
- Bojangles’ signature seasoning
- A slice of American cheese
- Duke’s tartar sauce
- A toasted bun
Customers can upgrade to the Bojangler Deluxe, which adds:
- Shredded lettuce
- Sliced tomato
- Pickles
The Deluxe version offers extra crunch and freshness.
Del Taco: Shrimp and Fish Tacos
Del Taco is not offering a traditional fish sandwich, but it has seafood tacos for Lent.
For a limited time, customers can buy:
- Jumbo Shrimp Tacos – crispy shrimp with pico de gallo, cabbage, and secret sauce in a flour tortilla, served with a lime wedge. Two tacos cost $6.
- Beer Battered Fish Taco – made with wild-caught Alaska pollock, topped with fresh ingredients and served with lime.
The chain is also offering three fish tacos for $7.
Dairy Queen: Wild Alaska Fish Sandwich
Dairy Queen has added its Wild Alaska Fish Sandwich to menus nationwide for Lent.
The sandwich includes:
- Fried Alaskan pollock
- Lettuce
- Tartar sauce
- A toasted bun
The company describes the fish as flaky and mild in flavor. However, Dairy Queen says the sandwich is only available for a limited time.
Whataburger: Whatacatch Sandwich
Whataburger’s Whatacatch Sandwich is also back.
It includes:
- Wild-caught Alaskan pollock coated in seasoned panko breadcrumbs
- Lettuce
- Two slices of tomato
- Tartar sauce
- A soft bun
Customers can add American cheese or Creamy Pepper Sauce for extra flavor.
A Whatacatch meal, which includes medium fries and a drink, costs $9.49.
Arby’s: Fish Sandwich Options
Arby’s is offering two fish sandwiches for a limited time.
- King’s Hawaiian Fish Deluxe Sandwich
- Crispy fish fillet
- Cheddar cheese
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Tartar sauce
- Served on a toasted King’s Hawaiian roll
- Crispy Fish Sandwich
- Crispy fish fillet
- Lettuce
- Tartar sauce
- Toasted sesame bun
Both sandwiches are available only for a short time at participating locations.
Why fish sandwiches are popular during Lent?
Fish sandwiches have become a tradition during Lent because Catholics avoid eating meat from animals like beef, pork, and chicken on Fridays. Seafood is allowed, so restaurants offer fish options to meet customer demand.
With many chains offering limited-time seafood items, customers have plenty of choices this Lenten season.
I’m Emma Parker, the writer and founder behind Emma’s Home Guide. This blog was created to share practical ideas, honest experiences, and helpful guidance for everyday living. My goal is to make home life feel easier, warmer, and more enjoyable, without pressure or perfection.
