Preheat the broiler. Lightly grease a cookie sheet.

Mix together water, sugar, and salt in a large saucepan. Add fillets to water mixture; add more water to fully submerge fillets if needed. Bring water to a boil over medium-high heat. Boil for 3 to 5 minutes.

Remove fillets from water and blot dry on paper towels. Brush with 6 tablespoons melted butter; sprinkle with paprika.

Broil in the preheated broiler until fillets are golden brown, 8 to 10 minutes per inch of thickness. Serve with remaining melted butter.