Summary The effects of fat content and charcoal types on the formation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs) in various barbecued fish (trout, sea bream, seabass, salmon and shad) were investigated. Fish samples were also analysed in terms of fat content and fatty acid profile. Total saturated fatty acids (∑SFA) contents reduced while the total polyunsaturated fatty acids (∑PUFA) contents increased after barbecuing. Both fat content and charcoal type had an effect on the amount of PAHs and HAAs. The amounts of ∑PAHs ranged between 6.95 and 99.03 ng g−1 in barbecued fish. Notably, the highest amount of ∑PAHs was found in shad as well. The amounts of ∑HAAs ranged from non‐detectable levels to 2.29 ng g−1. The amounts of ∑PAHs and ∑HAAs were higher in samples barbecued with charcoal briquette compared to those barbecued with wood charcoal. Hence, we would suggest the use of wood charcoal in barbecuing. The effects of fat content and charcoal types on the formation of PAHs and HAAs in barbecued fishes.