Prep the snoek fish fillets: Rinse the snoek fish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season the fillets with salt, black pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Prepare the coating: In a shallow dish, mix together equal parts all-purpose flour and cornmeal or breadcrumbs. Season the mixture with additional salt and pepper, if desired.
Coat the snoek fillets: Dip each snoek fillet into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly. Press gently to adhere the coating to the fish. Shake off any excess coating.
In a deep fryer or large deep skillet, heat vegetable oil to around 350°F (175°C). Make sure there is enough oil to submerge the fish fillets.
Carefully place the coated snoek fillets into the hot oil, in batches if necessary. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Flip them once during cooking to ensure even browning.
Using tongs or a slotted spoon, remove the fried snoek fish fillets from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes.
Transfer the crispy fried snoek fish fillets to a serving platter. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, lemon wedges, or traditional accompaniments like tartar sauce. The crispy coating and tender fish inside make for a delightful seafood experience.