The Essential Guide to Finding the Best Fish Gripper + Reviews
Are you looking for the best fish gripper out there, but, so far, you’ve been out of luck? You are in the right place, as we will tell you right away all you need to know to make an informed choice. In this paragraph, you will find the product that has managed to get on top of the competition due to its outstanding features and pricing. We’re talking about the Entsport Fish Lip Gripper, an easy to use gripper that will help you catch and release fish in any environment. As it is made from stainless steel, it doesn’t corrode, and for its price, it is a solid investment you will never regret. A measuring tape is included, allowing you to measure the fish you catch with excellent ease. If this particular model is out of stock, the next recommendation in line is the Rapala 9″ Floating Fish Gripper.
Comparison table
Our Top Choice
The first thing you will notice about this model is the sturdy construction. It should be no surprise, seeing how it is made from stainless steel and resistant to corrosion. The EVA handle is non-slip and also comfortable. Use the lanyard offered so that you don’t lose the gripper.
Although there’s a scale included, don’t expect it to be as accurate as dedicated products of the same type.
Made from top-notch materials, this affordable model is ideal for all types of fishing. It is also easy to use, and it’s convenient to carry around due to the extra lanyard provided by the manufacturer.
2nd Best
This corrosion-resistant gripper may just be the most reliable companion you can have with you when you go fishing. The quick-release mechanism is very handy when you need to hold a fish, as well as when you need to release it back into the water. A lanyard is provided for easy carry.
One issue of this model is that it cannot hold really heavy fish at all, and you shouldn’t force its limits.
For catch-and-release, there is hardly another gripper that can provide as much satisfaction as this well-made model from Rapala. Resistant to corrosion, it is the ideal option for saltwater and freshwater fishing.
Also To Consider
Instead of getting several tools to help you when fishing, get this set. Besides the gripper, you will get a pair of pliers that helps you remove hooks with ease and a weight scale that allows you to measure the weight of fish up to 40 pounds. The non-slip handle is an added plus for anglers of all types.
Fish that are too lightweight won’t pull the scale hard enough for you to make an accurate reading.
This handy toolset for anglers is the optimal choice for anyone who doesn’t want to haul around a heavy box of tools. You get a pair of pliers, a gripper, and a weighing scale, all very convenient to have on fishing trips.
10 Best Fish Grippers (Updated Reviews) in 2023
Any angler who wants a high-quality fish gripper will find that there are dozens of options out there. That could make his or her choice particularly challenging, which is why we compiled a list with excellent models that are currently popular due to their performance and proper pricing.
1. Entsport Fish Lip Gripper
If you are looking for an affordable fish gripper, look no further than this one. Made from stainless steel, it is the perfect companion for any angler, as it resists corrosion, and you will be able to use it regardless of conditions. You will like the extra-wide opening that makes it easy for you to pick any fish and hold it securely.
Also, the handle is comfortable and non-slip. A wrist strap completes the picture, making it challenging to lose even when you are caught in the process of dragging out of the water a large fish. This feature also makes it easy to carry around.
Its one-handed operation is yet another reason for you to consider it. If you cast your line in an area with catch-and-release rules and regulations, this model will come in handy. Its weight capacity is 15 kg, so you can catch some pretty large fish and hold them with this gripper.
Pros
A professional-grade fish gripper, this model will provide you great satisfaction by working as intended and providing you with seamless operation.
No matter where you go fishing, be it saltwater or freshwater spots, you can take this fish gripper with you as rust and corrosion won’t be an issue due to its stainless steel construction.
A comfortable EVA handle makes its use a breeze, and you will love that it is entirely non-slip so that you don’t drop your fish back in the water by accident.
The convenient lanyard makes it portable, and you don’t have to be afraid of losing it by accident, either.
It comes with a retractable tape measure that allows you to see the length of the fish right away.
Cons
Although it comes with a scale for weighing the fish you catch, don’t expect it to be particularly helpful as it is a bit difficult to read.
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2. Rapala 9” Floating Fish Gripper
For all your catch-and-release fishing trips, you can hardly find a better gripper than this model. After you catch the fish, you can hold it with just one hand so that you can measure and weigh it before throwing it back into the water. All this time, you can rest assured that no harm will come to the fish.
There is a quick-release mechanism that allows this. You will be pleased with how easily it holds the fish but without allowing it to escape; also, when you need to release it, the mechanism will operate smoothly and without a glitch.
You will like that you can use this gripper for saltwater and freshwater fishing since it doesn’t corrode. The material used is heavy-duty plastic that behaves admirably in many situations. Another useful feature is the included wrist lanyard. This way, you won’t ever lose the fish gripper attached to your hand.
Pros
The heavy-duty molded plastic used for its construction is resistant to corrosion, and you can use your fish gripper in any situation.
Its one-handed operation is convenient and allows you to take the measurements of the fish you catch with great ease.
You can count on the quick-release mechanism to hold the fish securely and release it without causing it any harm.
A wrist lanyard is included as a portability feature, and it is also handy for anyone who doesn’t want to use the fish gripper by accident.
The 9-inch size of the fish gripper makes it convenient for most anglers, and you will be happy with how easy it does its job.
Cons
Be aware that this fish gripper is suitable for what it was made for, and it cannot hold really large fish.
Although lightweight, it doesn’t float too well, and if you don’t catch it fast, it will sink.
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3. Z ZANMAX Fishing Pliers Fish Grip Tools Set
If you want more than just a simple gripper, we suggest this upgrade to the regular model that does only what was designed for. The Z ZANMAX Fishing Pliers Fish Grip Tools Set will allow you to catch and release to your heart’s content, and you will get some pretty neat extras you will absolutely love.
For instance, you will get a scale that you can use to weigh various types of fish, up to 40 pounds. Another thing you will like is the included pair of pliers that you can use when you have to remove a hook from the mouth of a fish so that you can release it back where it belongs.
Since it is made from aluminum, this model is resistant to rust and corrosion so that you can use it in saltwater environments without a problem. The jaws are made from stainless steel, and therefore highly resistant to water and other environmental agents, too.
Pros
You get more than just one tool when you purchase this model, as it comes with a scale and a pair of fish pliers for hook removal.
The weight capacity is 40 pounds, so that you will find this model handy for a large variety of situations and species of fish.
Made from aluminum, it is lightweight, yet durable at the same time; the jaws are made from stainless steel, to add durability.
The safety lock adds safety, and you will notice right away how the fish isn’t harmed while holding it with the gripper.
With the help of the built-in springs, you can use just one hand to operate this gripper and enjoy its benefits.
Cons
Don’t expect this unit to provide the same accuracy when you try to weigh really small fish; its weight scale is not particularly sensitive.
Also, the pliers are only standard and nothing to write home about.
Buy from Amazon.com
4. Piscifun Fish Lip Gripper with Scale
When you need to weigh the fish you catch, you may find it a little awkward to hold a gripper and do that operation. Piscifun thought about such situations and created a gripper with a rotatable handle that lets you manipulate it as you see fit so that you can read the weight of the fish you caught right away.
Even more, the scale numbers are written in legible symbols, so even if you wear glasses, you won’t have a problem with them. Another thing worth noting is that this model works for fish that weigh up to 33 pounds, which is pretty neat, seeing how you might stumble upon some trophy specimens during your fishing adventures.
You won’t have to worry about losing your gripper as it comes with a retractable lanyard. Also, the handle is anti-slip and very ergonomic, so it will be a pleasure to use it. Overall, the design of this model is aimed at your comfort.
Pros
Its anodized body makes it impervious to corrosion and rust, so you can rest assured that the gripper is a sound investment and won’t show signs of wear and tear anytime soon.
The camouflage design is nice, and you will find out that it works like a charm with the rest of your fishing gear and clothes.
You will find it ideal that this model can be used in both saltwater and freshwater environments without a problem.
Users will appreciate the rotatable handle that lets you move the gripper so that you can easily read the weight of the fish.
The maximum weight limit is 33 pounds, which is pretty good for most species of fish you might be after.
Cons
You may find this unit to be too bulky to operate it with ease, especially for people with smaller hands.
Also, it is not as easy to operate as other models available on the market.
Buy from Amazon.com
5. ZACX Fish Lip Gripper Muti-Function Pliers Set
With the help of this multi-tasker, you will find your fishing adventures more enjoyable than ever. First of all, you will get an easy to operate gripper that will allow you to hold the fish you catch so that your fishing buddies can snap a picture of your success.
Also, you will get a pair of pliers, something that should never be amiss from your supplies as an angler. These are made from aluminum, and they have a nice hollow cut construction that reduces their overall weight. Seeing how you most certainly need to have the possibility to cut the line, remove hooks, and complete other tasks, the pliers are nice to have.
The spring-loaded handle makes the gripper comfortable to use. Even with one hand, you will be able to operate it so that you can easily snap that selfie you were after when catching a bigger fish.
Pros
The 4.3-inch EVA handle is ergonomic and non-slip, so ideal to use in wet environments without a problem.
Use the included pliers to remove the hooks from the fish you catch so that you can release them back into the water.
Because it is a multi-tool set, you will get some pretty useful extras that you will greatly appreciate as an angler.
One-handed operation makes this particular fish gripper very easy to use, and you will be pleased to see how comfortable it is even for someone who isn’t particularly strong.
Due to the high resistance to saltwater environments, the gripper is highly durable, which is why many don’t hesitate to offer the set as a gift to their best friends.
Cons
The included pliers are a bit on the short side, which means that, for some fish, you might have to use other pliers to get the hook out.
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6. Rapala Floating Fish Gripper Scale Combo RFFGSC
With the help of this fish gripper, you will be able to hold the fish you catch without hurting them, and, also, you can weigh them as a mini digital scale is included with your purchase. The maximum weight limit of the scale is 50 pounds.
What makes this model different from others on the market is that it floats when you drop it in water by accident, so you will not lose it quickly. Another great thing about it is that you can make great use of the quick-release mechanism and that without applying too much force. The hooks will open and close quickly, helping you hold any fish.
Since the scale is digital, it serves to know that it has an automatic shut-off function after 4 minutes. Overall, it is an excellent simple tool that will help you with your fishing.
Pros
This tool comes with both a gripper and a scale so that you can easily weigh the fish you catch, every time you land one.
Because the scale is digital, its readings are a bit more accurate than what you can find in other models on the market.
You will find this design easy to use since it is made to hold the fish without applying too much pressure so that your catch isn’t hurt.
Its quick-release mechanism works smoothly, helping even anglers with less experience hold their fish and weigh them.
This gripper floats if you drop it in water by accident, which makes it almost impossible to lose.
Cons
Don’t expect this gripper to work too well on smaller fish, as the opening is too wide for that.
The weighing scale takes a while to start, so that’s some drawback you should also bear in mind.
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7. Piscifun Professional Fish Holder Lip Gripper
This lip gripper is so easy to use that you might just fall in love with it from the first use. It is more than just a small piece of fishing gear that can be used to hold a fish, as it comes with other handy extras that are pretty much indispensable in an angler’s life.
For instance, you will love how ergonomic the handle is. Since it is rubberized, it provides you with an excellent grip, and that means that you won’t be taken by surprise by a larger fish and let the gripper slip from your hand.
Both a tape measure and a scale are included and incorporated in the construction of the model so that you can quickly see if the fish you caught is either required to be released or a trophy you want to take home with you. The stainless steel construction is highly durable.
Pros
An excellent companion for all your fishing adventures, this durable lip gripper offers all the necessary tools for taking the measurements of your fish in one tool.
The measuring tape is included in the construction of the gripper, and you only need to pull it from its socket; it has 3 feet.
Also, there is a scale built inside the gripper, with a weight limit of 40 pounds, which is enough to weigh any fish you catch.
You will like the non-slip rubberized handle that’s also very ergonomic and will allow you to hold your fish firmly.
The steel construction is ideal for any type of environment.
Cons
Retracting the measuring tape is a bit iffy since the springs that operate it don’t appear to be of superior quality.
While it is water-resistant, don’t let it in contact with salty water for too long, or it will catch rust.
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8. Piscifun Fish Lip Gripper with Digital Scale
While other grippers on the market come with a mechanical scale incorporated inside their bodies, and others have scales on the side offered by manufacturers, this one has a digital scale integrated with its construction. That makes it easy for you to see all the details once you catch a fish and hold it.
The maximum weight limit is also higher than what you can see in other models on the market. Compared to them, this one can weigh fish up to 60 pounds, so its loading capacity is something to write home about. That also means that its construction is sturdy and can accommodate fish this large.
For both freshwater and saltwater environments, it is an excellent option, as it is made from stainless steel and highly durable. Also, it is completely sealed to make sure that it won’t get damaged even if you drop it in water.
Pros
With its easy to read digital scale, this gripper offers you the possibility to measure the large fish you catch right away.
Also, the LCD light helps with placing the gripper even when you go fishing in low light conditions, whether it is in the evening or before dawn is breaking.
There is a memory mode on the scale that helps you memorize up to 10 readings, so that means that you will be able to keep track of the fish you catch.
As it is water-resistant, this model has better durability than other models on the market.
It has a rotatable handle that allows you to see the weight of the fish with excellent ease.
Cons
The digital scale is an added plus, but its accuracy when it comes down to ounces is not particularly exceptional.
Also, the position of the wrist strap is not the most convenient.
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9. Booms Fishing G11 Fish Gripper
Everything you need in your fish gripper, you will find in this model from Booms Fishing. First of all, you will be impressed with its sturdy construction that makes it a good choice for all year use and any environment. At the same time, the hooks are easy on the fish and won’t hurt them when you catch them and hold them.
Any slippery fish will be no match for you, and you will like how you can keep your hands clean when handling it. Also, if you’re interested in catch and release, or you simply need to put back into water fish that are too small or unfit for harvesting, this tool is also a great choice.
The incorporated spring scale is an excellent add-on, and it can weigh fish up to 52 pounds. The 304 stainless steel material used for the body of the gripper offers high durability.
Pros
This gripper will allow you to hold fish securely, but without fear that you might hurt them or damage them in any way.
You don’t have to worry about the gripper slipping from your hands, as it is designed to be anti-slip and will work for various situations.
Its 304 stainless steel body is made with durability in mind, and works for both saltwater and freshwater environments, without taking damage.
With the help of the spring scale included, you can weigh fish up to 52 pounds.
The hooks are designed to apply gentle pressure, and they are easy to release, too.
Cons
At first, the gripper may feel a bit stiff, so it’s a good idea to use some lubricant and make it start to work smoothly.
Other grippers in the same price range also come with a measuring tape, which this one doesn’t have.
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10. Fiblink Portable Fish Lip Grabber
Anyone looking for a cheap fish gripper will discover that the Fiblink Portable Fish Lip Grabber is a great choice. The fact that the manufacturer also throws in a 5-foot ruler for no additional charge makes this pick an even better deal. This way, you will be able to get a pretty indispensable tool for anglers but without breaking the bank.
You can rely on the adequate tension applied by the internal mechanism on the jaws when you use it on a fish. This way, you will be able to hold the fish securely but without causing any damage. The grip hooks are designed to last, and they will close just as it’s needed.
Other features make this model a good choice. For instance, the EVA handle is comfortable for the user and also non-slip. You can also rely on the lanyard included so that you don’t lose your gripper by accident.
Pros
The main body of this gripper is made from stainless steel, which means that it is pretty resistant against corrosion and rust.
With the help of the included scale, you can weigh fish up to 40 pounds, just in case you catch some trophy specimen.
Its smooth operation is one of its most significant selling points, as you will only need one hand to operate it.
Adequate tension is applied by the hooks when you use the gripper so that the fish doesn’t get damaged in the process; this also helps with catch and release.
Some comfort-oriented features, such as the lanyard included, and the EVA handle, make this particular gripper an excellent choice for first-time buyers.
Cons
Since the tape is made from steel, you will not be too happy with using it in saltwater environments.
People who wear prescription glasses might have a hard time reading the scale.
Buy from Amazon.com
Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
When you are looking for the best fish lip gripper, you may feel a little overwhelmed, seeing how many models are available. To make an informed decision, you need to know what these tools are all about, and how you can make the best out of the offers currently sold by manufacturers of fishing gear. Follow the next advice to get a hold of the necessary information for making a great choice.
One-handed operation
The fish gripper you choose should be easy to use. That is why you will find many products advertised as requiring only one-handed operation. These models are comfortable and ergonomic, and they allow you to enjoy your fishing at maximum. It is the particular design these models have that would enable this.
The arms that hold the fish are spring operated, which means that you don’t have to apply a lot of strength to hold a fish. You will be happy to hear that if arm strength is not something you’re mainly known for. Certain advantages can be drawn from such designs, as you can hold the fish with one-handed and snap a picture with your phone so that you can brag to your friends.
This design is also helpful for catch and release. You will only need to lower the fish gently into the water and release it just for the joy of fishing.
Weight limit
You will notice that more often than not, fish grippers come with a scale that is incorporated in the design. Some even have a built-in measuring tape so that you can measure the length of the fish you catch.
Such simple extras come in handy, so you will be pleased to have them with you, and even integrated with your gripper. Many fishing spots have clear rules and regulations about the fish you can catch, and most of the limits are drawn in regards to the length of the fish, according to which the young can be separated from adult specimens.
A hefty weight limit should be something to aim for if you plan to catch some trophy fish. The manufacturer usually volunteers this information so that you have easy access to it.
Are there other tools included?
From all the fish gripper reviews you will read, you will notice that some praised models are those that come as a multi-tool set. Why are they preferred? The answer would be that such buyers prefer the convenience of having normally separated tools brought together.
You can find models that come with an extra pair of pliers, which can really come in handy when you want to remove the hooks from the lips of the fish.
Resistance to water and other conditions
Fish grippers can be made from various materials, and those preferred are heavy-duty plastic, stainless steel, and aluminum. They are highly resistant to corrosion and rust, so you will be able to use them in various conditions, and also for saltwater and freshwater fishing alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a fish gripper?
A fish gripper is a pretty neat tool that any angler should have. When you pull the fish out of the water, sometimes after some struggle, you want to hold it so that you can weigh it or take a picture with it, and that’s when a gripper comes into play.
This simple tool holds the fish without causing any harm to it, which is the most critical point. The small hooks gently sustain the weight of the fish, and you can measure it or perform other tasks. Because of the one-handed operation most have, grippers are excellent fishing tools that will allow you to engage in catch and release tasks without a glitch.
Some models can float when dropped in water. Others come with wrist straps so that you can hold them securely. The idea is that you will have the perfect tool for holding a fish without hurting it.
Q: How does a fish gripper work?
There are situations where other tools, such as a net, are not extremely convenient. A gripper will work like a charm under such circumstances. For instance, grippers are pretty good when you must handle a fish that can bite. Holding it by the lip, but without the risk of causing irreparable damage, will keep your hands away from the fish.
Also, if you deal with a fish that struggles a lot, as long as it’s not too large, you can use such a tool. The gripper works by closing the gap between its hooks, usually with the help of a spring mechanism inside the handle. This allows you to adjust the pressure so that you don’t damage the fish.
When you have to release the fish into the water, or you want to move it to another area, a gripper can prove an invaluable tool.
Q: How do you use a fish lip gripper?
A fish lip gripper is a pretty great tool to have if you don’t want to deal with some bloodied thumbs when pulling a fish out of the water and trying to hold it by its lip. Even if it may not be very visible, many fish have teeth, and that’s why you can cut your hands when trying to hold one like this.
A lip gripper is what you need to prevent such situations. Also, when you want to remove the hook from the fish’s lips, you will find this type of gripper to be convenient. To use a lip gripper, you will need to activate the clamping mechanism, and gently apply pressure until you can hold the fish with one hand.
By depressing the lever handle, you will decrease the pressure and will be able to release the fish. As you can see, operating such a tool is pretty straightforward.
Bibliography:
1) Why Everyone Needs “The Fish Grip”
4) Fish grippers are useful to weigh fish
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