Every seasoned angler knows that the key to a successful fishing trip goes beyond just having the right fishing gear.
The trusty fishing pocket knife is an essential tool that should always be noticed.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into fishing pocket knives, exploring their importance, features, and why they are an indispensable companion for any angler.
The Swiss Army Knife of Fishing
A fishing pocket knife is often called the Swiss Army knife of the fishing world, and for good reason.
These versatile tools are designed to tackle many tasks that can arise while you’re out on the water.
A high-quality fishing pocket knife can do everything from cutting fishing lines to opening stubborn hooks, scaling fish, or even preparing a quick meal by the campfire.
Key Features of a Fishing Pocket Knife
Blade Quality: The blade is the heart of any pocket knife; a sharp and durable blade is paramount for anglers.
Look for knives made from stainless or high-carbon steel, as these materials are known for their corrosion resistance and edge retention.
Multiple Tools: The best fishing pocket knives come equipped with various tools, including a main blade, scissors, fish scaler, hook remover, and a corkscrew, among others.
Having various tools at your disposal ensures you’re ready for any situation.
Size and Portability: A fishing pocket knife should be compact and easy to carry.
It should fit comfortably in your pocket or tackle box, making it readily accessible when needed.
Safety Features: A locking mechanism prevents accidental closure of fishing pocket knives while in use, which is found on many fishing knives. Safety should always be a top priority.
Handle Comfort: The handle should offer a secure grip, even when wet. Look for knives with textured handles or ergonomic designs for comfort and control.
Rust Resistance: Since fishing involves water exposure, choosing a knife with rust-resistant materials is essential. Stainless steel or titanium-coated blades are excellent choices for longevity.
Best fishing knife
When it comes to fishing, the right tool can make all the difference, and our fishing knives are a cut above the rest.
From effortlessly filleting your catch to scaling with precision, our knives are designed with anglers in mind.
Crafted from premium materials, they’re built to withstand the rigors of the great outdoors, ensuring you’re always prepared for whatever the water throws your way.
With blades that stay sharp and ergonomic handles for a secure grip, you can trust our fishing knives to deliver top-notch performance on every angling adventure.
So, cast your line, reel in the big one, and let our knives do the rest – because success starts with the right tool when it comes to fishing.
“Slice through your fishing challenges with precision – the perfect catch starts with the right knife.”
Determining the “best” fishing knife can be subjective and depends on your needs and preferences.
However, several well-regarded fishing knives are known for their quality and functionality.
- Buck Knives 220 Silver Creek Folding Fillet Fishing Knife
- Rapala Fish ‘N Fillet Knife
- Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife
- Gerber Controller 8 Saltwater Fillet Knife
- Benchmade Griptilian AXIS Lock Knife Orange
- Victorinox 1.4733.72 Fisherman Red Fishing Knife
1. Buck Knives 220 Silver Creek Folding Fillet Fishing Knife
Regarding fishing, having the right tools can make all the difference. The Buck Knives 220 Silver Creek Folding Fishing Fillet Knife is a versatile and reliable companion for anglers.
“From scaling to filleting, our fishing knives are your trusted companions on the water.”
Features
Forever Warranty: Buck Knives has a long-standing tradition of offering a lifetime product warranty dating back to 1902.
This demonstrates their commitment to quality and the durability of their knives.
Reliable and Durable: The Buck Knives 220 Silver Creek Folding Fillet Knife boasts a titanium-coated blade that enhances flexibility and provides excellent corrosion resistance.
This is a crucial feature for a knife often exposed to the elements during fishing trips.
Anti-Slip Grip: The knife features a rubberized anti-slip grip on the handle, ensuring you maintain control even in wet conditions.
This is a crucial safety feature that prevents accidents while handling the knife.
Stainless Steel Safety Guard: Safety is paramount, especially when filleting fish.
Stainless steel safety guards provide extra protection, reducing the likelihood of accidents.
Convenient Size: With a closed length of 7 1/4 inches, this folding knife is compact and easy to carry on any fishing trip.
Its foldable design makes it a space-saving and convenient addition to your fishing gear.
Easy Opening Mechanism: The knife features a nail notch on the blade, making it easy to open even with wet hands.
This ensures quick access to the blade when needed.
Lock Back Mechanism: The lock-back mechanism further enhances Safety and reliability, which secures the blade in the open position.
You can trust that the knife will remain open and stable while you work.
Pros
- Durable Construction: The titanium-coated blade and stainless steel safety guard make this knife highly durable and capable of withstanding the rigors of regular fishing use.
- Compact and Portable: Compact size and folding design enable it to be carried in pockets or tackle boxes, saving valuable space.
- Anti-Slip Grip: The rubberized handle ensures a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions, reducing the risk of accidents.
- Lifetime Warranty: Buck Knives’ lifetime warranty is a testament to their confidence in the knife’s quality and durability.
- Corrosion Resistance: The titanium-coated blade adds an extra layer of protection against corrosion, extending the knife’s lifespan.
Cons
- Price: While the quality justifies the cost, some anglers might find the initial investment relatively high compared to other fishing knives on the market.
2. Rapala Fish ‘N Fillet Knife
The Rapala Fish ‘N Fillet Knife is an iconic and time-tested tool in the world of fishing.
Crafted by Marttiini, a trusted name in premium fillet knives for over 50 years, this knife has earned its reputation as a must-have for anglers worldwide.
“Gear up for your angling adventures with knives designed for the demands of the great outdoors.”
Features
Premium Heritage: This fillet knife is part of the Rapala legacy, with a history spanning over 50 years.
It’s a testament to the enduring quality and performance that Marttiini, the maker of Rapala fillet knives, has consistently delivered.
Versatile Blade: The knife’s blade is progressively tapered and made from European stainless steel.
This Fishing knife with a sheath design allows flexibility, making it ideal for precise filleting tasks.
The blade is also full-tang, ensuring durability and longevity.
Classic Birch Handle: The legendary birch handle provides a timeless, natural aesthetic and a comfortable and secure grip.
It allows anglers to maintain control during filleting, even when hands are wet.
Safety Notch: The notch secures the tang to a brass ferrule, enhancing the knife’s overall stability and Safety during use.
This feature ensures that the blade remains firmly in place.
Fine-Tooled Leather Sheath: The sheath includes a ‘safety-first’ free-swing belt loop, which keeps the sheath and blade clear of the body.
Single-Stage Sharpener: Included with the knife is an easy-to-use single-stage sharpener.
This sharpener helps maintain the blade’s razor-sharp edge, ensuring it’s always ready for precise filleting.
Pros
- Time-Tested Quality: With over 100 million units sold to date, the Rapala Fish ‘N Fillet Knife has proven its reliability and performance in fishing camps, charter boats, and among countless fishermen worldwide.
- Versatile Blade: The progressively tapered, flexible blade is ideal for various filleting tasks, from delicate fish to larger catches.
- Durable Construction: The full-tang blade, brass ferrule, and birch handle ensure the knife’s durability, even under demanding fishing conditions.
- Elegant Sheath: The fine-tooled leather sheath protects the blade and adds a touch of classic style to the knife.
- Sharpener Included: The included single-stage sharpener makes it easy to maintain the knife’s edge, ensuring it remains razor-sharp over time.
Cons
- Price: While the Rapala Fish ‘N Fillet Knife is a top-quality tool, it may be considered relatively expensive compared to other fillet knives.
Rapala is a trusted name in fishing gear, and their Fish ‘N Fillet Knife is a popular choice among anglers.
The fishing knife with sheath comes in various blade lengths, is made from stainless steel, and has a comfortable handle for extended use.
3. Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife
The Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife is a versatile and reliable tool designed to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts.
Whether you’re camping, backpacking, fishing, hiking, or preparing for survival situations, this knife is designed to handle it all.
“Don’t let your catch of the day slip away – equip yourself with the finest fishing knives.”
Features
Bushcraft Knife: The Morakniv Companion is touted as the perfect all-in-one knife for outdoor activities.
It’s suitable for various tasks, making it a valuable addition to any outdoor adventure.
Premium Blade: The knife boasts a 0.08-inch thick hardened Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel blade.
This Fishing knife with sheath material is known for staying sharp longer than carbon steel and being less prone to rust, making it ideal for various outdoor applications such as carving, food preparation, and cutting tinder.
High-Friction Handle: The ergonomic polymer handle is designed with a soft friction grip and a finger guard, ensuring a secure and comfortable hold in all weather conditions.
This handle design enhances Safety and efficiency during use.
Protective Polymer Sheath: The knife has an easy-to-clean plastic sheath with a belt clip.
This feature allows you to conveniently attach the knife to your belt or rucksack, keeping it within easy reach.
Specifications: The knife’s specifications include a blade thickness of 0.08 inches (2.0 mm), a blade length of 4.1 inches (104 mm), a total length of 8.5 inches (217 mm), and a net weight with a sheath of 3.9 ounces (110 g).
Pros
- Durable Stainless Steel Blade: The Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel blade is sharp and rust-resistant, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Ergonomic Handle: The high-friction handle with a finger guard offers a secure and comfortable grip, enhancing Safety during use.
- Convenient Sheath: The plastic sheath with a belt clip allows for easy and secure storage and transportation of the knife, keeping it readily accessible.
- Affordability: Compared to some other outdoor knives on the market, the Morakniv Companion offers excellent value for its quality and features.
Cons
- Minimalist Aesthetics: Some users may find the knife’s design more useful than aesthetically pleasing. However, this is a personal preference and does not affect its performance.
While not specifically designed for fishing, Morakniv’s Companion knife is a versatile and affordable option.
It has a stainless steel blade, a comfortable grip and is known for its sharpness and durability.
4. Gerber Controller 8 Saltwater Fillet Knife
The Gerber Controller 8″ Saltwater Fillet Knife is a specialized tool designed to meet the demands of saltwater fishing.
With its flexible blade, innovative features, and robust corrosion-resistant construction, it’s tailored to deliver clean, smooth cuts even in challenging conditions.
The Gerber Controller 8 Salt is my go-to knife for saltwater fishing, and it’s built like a tank. The corrosion-resistant blade is a lifesaver in the harsh marine environment.
The grip is secure even when my hands are wet, and the ambidextrous design is a plus.
It’s a bit pricier than other knives, but the quality is undeniable. Worth every penny!
Features
Flexible Blade: The 8-inch blade is designed to provide just the right amount of flexibility, making it ideal for filleting fish.
This Saltwater fishing knife feature allows precise and smooth cuts while maintaining control.
GuideFins™: The intuitive GuideFins™ on the blade enhances your control over the knife.
They assist in guiding the blade along the fish’s contours, ensuring precision during filleting.
HydroTread Grip™: The tactile HydroTread Grip™ handle offers exceptional control, even in slippery and wet conditions.
This grip design enhances Safety by reducing the risk of accidents due to slippage.
SALT Rx™ Corrosion Protection: Engineered for the saltwater fisherman, the SALT Rx™ technology provides superior protection against corrosion, wear, and tough saltwater environments.
This Saltwater fishing knife ensures the knife’s longevity and performance in harsh conditions.
Pros
- Precise Filleting: The flexible blade and GuideFins™ make filleting fish a breeze, whether dealing with large or small catches.
- Excellent Grip: The HydroTread GripTM handle keeps the knife secure, even with wet or slimy hands.
- Saltwater Resistant: The SALT Rx™ technology offers superior corrosion protection, making this knife well-suited for saltwater fishing and ensuring its durability over time.
- Versatile Size: The 8-inch blade balances length and maneuverability, suitable for a wide range of fish sizes and species.
- Innovative Design: Including features like GuideFins™ and the HydroTread Grip™ demonstrates Gerber’s commitment to designing a knife tailored to the needs of saltwater anglers.
Cons
- Specialized Use: While the knife excels in saltwater fishing, there may be better choices for those primarily fishing in freshwater environments. It’s a specialized tool for a specific audience.
Gerber’s Saltwater Fillet Knife is designed for saltwater anglers, with a corrosion-resistant blade and a comfortable, non-slip handle.
It comes in various blade lengths to suit different fish sizes.
5. Benchmade Griptilian AXIS Lock Knife Orange
“The right knife is the difference between dinner and disappointment – choose wisely.”
Features
Orange Noryl GTX Handle: The knife features an eye-catching grip-textured molded orange handle.
This handle is not only visually appealing but also exceptionally strong and lightweight. It provides a secure grip even in challenging conditions.
Corrosion-Resistant Blade: The knife boasts a satin-finished drop-point blade from Bohler N680 steel.
This steel is known for its excellent corrosion resistance, making it ideal for tasks in wet or humid environments.
Ambidextrous Design: The AXIS lock system is a hallmark of Benchmade knives, and it’s no different in this Griptilian model.
It’s designed for easy one-handed opening and closing, and it’s fully ambidextrous, catering to both right and left-handed users.
Dual Thumb Stud Opener: Including dual thumb studs allows for quick and easy blade deployment, regardless of your dominant hand.
Reversible Pocket Clip: The pocket clip can be reversed for both right and left-handed individuals, providing versatility in how you carry the knife.
Pros
- Corrosion Resistance: The Bohler N680 steel blade ensures superior corrosion resistance in wet or marine environments.
- High-Quality Construction: Benchmade is renowned for its precision and craftsmanship, and this knife is no exception. It’s built to last and withstand tough conditions.
- Versatile Design: The Griptilian is a versatile EDC and outdoor knife, suitable for various tasks such as cutting, slicing, and general utility use.
- Ambidextrous Use: The AXIS lock system and reversible pocket clip cater to right- and left-handed users, making it accessible to a broader audience.
- Secure Grip: The textured handle provides a secure grip, even when wet or in adverse conditions, enhancing Safety during use.
Cons
- Price: Benchmade knives are known for their quality but have a premium price tag.
Benchmade is renowned for its high-quality knives, and the Griptilian 551H20 is versatile.
While not specific to fishing, it features a corrosion-resistant blade and a strong locking mechanism for Safety.
6. Victorinox 1.4733.72 Fisherman Red Fishing Knife
The Victorinox 1.4733.72 Fisherman Red Swiss Army Knife is a compact and versatile tool symbolizing utility and smart design since 1897.
Its durable construction, many functions, and Swiss precision make it a dependable companion for a wide range of tasks.
Features
Durable Swiss Construction: This Swiss-made pocket knife is crafted from stainless steel and is known for its strength and resistance to corrosion.
It’s encased in popular red ABS/Cellidor scales, providing durability and a slim profile.
Compact and Portable: Despite its 18 functions, the Victorinox Fisherman is designed to be compact and easy to carry.
It’s the perfect companion for daily adventures, fitting comfortably in your pocket.
Multifunctional: This pocket knife is truly a multitasker, capable of handling various situations.
It’s a versatile tool, from basic tasks like cutting and opening bottles to more specialized functions like fish scaling and sewing.
Trusted Quality: Victorinox is renowned for its Swiss precision and quality.
Pros
- Versatile Tool: With 18 functions, this Swiss Army Knife is ready for almost any task you can throw at it. It’s an all-in-one tool perfect for outdoor adventures, everyday use, or emergencies.
- Compact Design: Its slim profile makes it comfortable to carry in your pocket without adding bulk.
- Durable Materials: Stainless steel construction and ABS/Cellidor scales make this knife robust and resistant to wear and tear.
Cons
- Size Limitations: While it’s versatile, the size of the tool limits the size of some functions. For heavy-duty tasks, a larger dedicated tool might be more suitable.
- Specialized Use: Some functions, such as the fish scaler or sewing awl, may only be relevant for some, depending on their activities and needs.
When choosing a fishing knife, consider the type of fishing you do, the size of the fish you typically catch, and your preferences for blade length and handle material.
Additionally, always prioritize Safety by selecting a knife with a locking mechanism and a comfortable, non-slip handle to prevent accidents while handling fish in wet conditions.
Ultimately, the best fishing knife suits your needs and feels comfortable in your hand.
Why Every Angler Needs a Fishing Pocket Knife
Versatility: As mentioned earlier, a fishing pocket knife is incredibly versatile. Whether cutting lines, removing hooks, or preparing bait, it’s the go-to tool for many fishing tasks.
Time Saver: Instead of fumbling around with different tools, a fishing pocket knife streamlines your fishing experience by providing everything you need in one compact package.
Emergency Tool: A fishing pocket knife can be a lifesaver in unforeseen situations.
It can be used for first aid, cutting rope, or even as a makeshift tool in survival situations.
Convenience: Carrying a separate tool for each task can take time and effort. A fishing pocket knife eliminates the need for multiple tools, saving space and reducing clutter.
How to hold a fish knife
Holding a fish knife properly is essential for safety and effective filleting or cutting. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to hold a fish knife:
Select the Right Knife: Ensure you have the appropriate fish knife before you start.
Fillet knives are designed for precision cutting, while other knives may be better suited for scaling, gutting, or general tasks.
Secure a Stable Surface: Place the fish on a clean and stable surface. A cutting board is ideal, as it prevents the knife from slipping and makes the process more controlled.
Grip the Knife Handle: Hold the knife handle with your dominant hand. Make sure your grip is firm but tight enough.
Wrap your fingers around the handle, ensuring your thumb rests on it for added stability.
Position Your Fingers: Your index finger should rest along the top of the blade, near the blade’s base (the part closest to the handle).
This finger helps guide the knife and maintain control. Your other fingers should grip the handle securely.
Use a Claw Grip: To protect your non-dominant hand while handling the fish, use a “claw grip.”
Curl your non-dominant hand’s fingers slightly and hold the fish in place by gently pressing your fingertips onto the fish’s skin. Keep your fingers away from the area where you’ll be cutting.
Angle the Blade: Position the knife blade at a slight angle, typically about 20-30 degrees, with the cutting edge facing you.
This angle helps you slide the knife along the fish’s spine and remove the fillet efficiently.
Begin Cutting
- Start your cut by placing the knife’s tip near the head of the fish, close to the dorsal fin.
- Apply gentle, controlled pressure as you run the blade along the spine, moving towards the tail.
- Maintain a smooth, continuous motion, following the contours of the fish’s body.
Follow Through
- As you cut, let the blade do the work.
- Avoid using excessive force, which can lead to uneven or damaged fillets.
- Continue cutting until you reach the tail, keeping the blade in contact with the bones.
Repeat as Needed: For the other side of the fish, turn the fish over and repeat the process. You should end up with two fillets, one from each side of the fish.
Practice Safety
- Always be cautious when handling sharp knives and fish.
- Keep your fingers away from the blade’s path, and be mindful of your surroundings.
- If you’re new to fish filleting, consider using a fish glove or a cut-resistant glove for added protection.
Remember that practice makes perfect when it comes to fish filleting. Over time, you’ll become more skilled and confident in your knife-handling technique.
Conclusion
In the world of fishing, preparation, and adaptability are key to success.
A high-quality fishing pocket knife is a valuable addition to any angler’s toolkit, offering versatility, convenience, and Safety in one package.
So, before heading out on your next fishing adventure, ensure you have your trusty fishing pocket knife.
It may be the difference between a good day on the water and a great one!
Visit our website to learn more about the Topwater Frog.