Fishing knives – Buying guide, Reviews & Comparison
If you’re in the market for a new fishing knife and find it hard to sift through the countless user reviews you might have come across, this paragraph can be of assistance. Based on the sales figures, consumer reports, and all of the forums we have analyzed, it seems that the Morakniv M-11818-P is the fillet knife you should consider. Its blade is made from stainless steel, which adds to its overall durability. While the product is available in several sizes ranging from 3.5 to 6.1 inches, we recommend a 6-inch one if you need an all-around fillet knife. From what we’ve gathered by looking at the feedback offered by some buyers, it seems that the blade of this choice is really sharp, enabling you to cut through fish as you would through butter. Should the Morakniv M-11818-P no longer be available, maybe you should give a try to the Rapala HDEFAC.
Comparison table
Our Top Choice
This model comes with all the features of a quality fillet knife. It has a stainless steel blade and a high-friction handle. The Sandvik 12C27 steel out of which the blade has been manufactured is sharp, tough, and corrosion-resistant. So, the knife has a good chance of withstanding the test of time. The product is manufactured in Sweden.
Some customers argue that the sheath is made from a cheap material, which is why it might not hold up well over time.
It seems that this product is an excellent fillet knife with a blade made from quality stainless steel.
2nd Best
If what you are after is a convenient electric fillet knife, this Rapala model should be right up your alley. It’s made from resilient materials and comes with blades that can be cleaned in the dishwasher. Plus, the features of this choice are superior to those of many of its competitors as it can achieve twice the speed of many other alternatives.
There have been anglers who have complained about this electric knife making too much noise when it is used.
The Rapala HDEFAC is a good-quality electric fillet knife that needs a bit of mulling over if you haven’t decided just yet.
Also To Consider
Even though it is one of the most affordable choices that we were able to track down, the RSB4 offers plenty of value. It boasts a 4-inch blade made from stainless steel, with a serrated upper portion. The grip handle is comfortable to hold, so there won’t be any accidents catching you off-guard. Also, the product is accompanied by a plastic sheath.
Several fishermen and women who have purchased this unit say that it does not hold an edge for too long.
If you need a dependable 4-inch bait knife, you should check out the Rapala RSB4 as it’s efficient.
What is a fishing knife and why do you need one?
Fishing knives are said to be a crucial part of the activity in general, as these units help serve a plethora of purposes both when you’re doing your fishing and when you’ll be doing your cooking. The versatility of such a product cannot be denied, considering that aside from filleting the fish per se, you may want to use it for removing excess line or cutting the ends of a knot. The same item can serve when it comes to building riverside fires, after an entire day of standing in the middle of the river with a good pair of waterproof waders, that you will find more about by reading this informative post.
Most of the models that are now available in today’s market can be split up into two types: fishing knives that are used while fishing and the ones that are used to prepare the catch for cooking. The first category is small in size and very practical and is mostly thought of as an all-purpose item. One of the advantages of such a model is that it’s very easy to carry and have around in your fishing or hunting bag and you can learn more about what a good backpack is on our site. You should also know that some of the knives have flexible handles or blades and can become compact so that they fit into the user’s pocket.
Fillet knives are different, as they can be utilized to clean fish, remove the guts and bones, and sometimes even the skin. They’re larger and more durable as many units are made of stainless steel. In the end, the best fishing knife is the one that satisfies your needs and expectations in terms of ease of use and sharpness.
Buying guide – Best filleting knife
Choosing the right fish filleting knives
Nothing beats a home-cooked meal out of the fish you’ve just caught. Here’s where fillet knives come in handy and any fisherman will know how valuable they can be when it comes to boning and taking the guts out of a fish. Since the market is overflowing with good-quality alternatives, we’ve thought about giving you a hand so that ultimately, you are able to pick the right product for your preferences. Whether it is a vintage fishing knife, a fly fishing knife, or just one that gets the job done no muss, no fuss, have a look at our buying guide to learn how to select it.
Blade material
The norm when it comes to the blade material of a good fishing knife seems to be stainless steel. We couldn’t disagree with that as stainless steel is among the most durable and strong materials ever to have been invented. However, if the majority of products you’ll come across while doing your research will claim to have been made of steel, many manufacturers leave out certain details about the composition of the blade. Thus, a fisherman might not be aware of the purity of the stainless used in the construction of his or her fillet knife. The simplest way of picking a model that has a corrosion-resistant and sturdy blade is to choose one from a reputable brand. What’s more, you should check out some of the best fishing knives reviews to find out what fishermen and cooks had to say about the model you might be interested in purchasing.
Blade size and flexibility
The larger the fish, the longer the blade. If you don’t really know the species you’ll be catching during your every fishing trip, we recommend getting a 6 or 7-inch alternative as it seems to raise up to par regardless of the size of the catch. However, if you’re a bit pickier, we’d like to point out that having multiple fillet knives with many blade lengths can never hurt.
Handle
Even using a regular knife can be dangerous if you plan on cutting something wet or slimy. That’s why you ought to know that you can hold the item properly in your hand so that you don’t accidentally hurt yourself or someone else in your proximity. In spite of the fact that wood seems to be the preferred material for various other products, in this case, it is not the most recommended one. Firstly, wood is somewhat unreliable as it can get very slippery when wet. What’s more, wood somehow manages to retain fish smells over time, which means that basically, your fishing knife will end up stinking even when it’s not being used.
Two of the preferred handle materials nowadays are molded rubber and plastic, and for good reason, too. For one, they are resistant to corrosion. Secondly, they’re sometimes even more affordable compared to their wood counterparts. Besides, many of these products will offer an excellent grip, as is the case with rubber, for instance, which can even be squeezed. It might also be worth noting that plastic and rubber can be cleaned with ease, and some are virtually impervious to moisture and smells.
Manual or electric
Some fishermen still prefer the manual version of a good fishing knife, and that’s mostly due to the fact that they have been using one for many years. As such, they’ve acquired a high degree of experience when it comes to operating the item so that it virtually poses no health or safety risk to them while preparing the fish for cooking. In other words, manual options are excellent if you’re a well-seasoned fisherman and cook.
Electric options were invented not long ago. These units are destined for individuals who like to eat a lot of fish, cook for their entire family, or at least eat fish very often. If you go out and do your fishing once a week, you’ll probably benefit from using such a model, as they can be employed both efficiently and easily. In actuality, they can cut through fish like it was butter. It goes without saying that they’re a tremendous help when boning the catch.
Electric fillet knives are very convenient, but one needs to be aware of the fact that they can be utilized using two different energy sources. Some units come with rechargeable batteries and these are usually thought of as being the most efficient as you won’t need to operate the knife and be bugged by a wire hanging around its handle. Others, by contrast, have to be plugged in all the time. In short, the ones that come with batteries are top choices of individuals who also want to take their fillet knife out for a fishing trip and not just keep it in their kitchen forever.
16 Best Fishing Knives (Reviews) in 2024
Now that you know what to look for, you can select the fishing knife that best suits your needs. Remember to estimate your budget and decide what you want to spend but keep in mind that quality is more important than affordability, especially when it comes to a knife. Spending several extra dollars can allow you to select a high-quality alternative that is more efficient and durable.
Vintage fishing knives
1. Mora Unisex Outdoor All-Round Knife available in Black
The Morakniv model is probably the best fishing knife with sheath that money can buy these days. The design features a blade that has been constructed out of stainless steel blade, a material that significantly adds to the overall item durability.
The blade length and thickness depend on the size you feel most comfortable with. Thus, prospective buyers have the freedom to choose from any of the available sizes that range from 3.5 inches to 6.1 inches. Keep in mind that a 6-inch alternative is one of the most convenient ones as it can be utilized with various types and weights of fish.
As it is to be expected, the Morakniv M-11818-P is a manual fishing knife that does what it’s supposed to do with little to no hassle on the part of the user. While it does not feature the convenience of a rechargeable battery, it seems to be the top choice of individuals who are well-seasoned in the art of slicing through fish like a hot knife through butter while on the field. Over 70 buyers were kind enough to express their satisfaction and write detailed positive reviews about the Morakniv M-11818-P. Seeing how this model can be bought for less than forty dollars, it’s a bargain to consider.
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2. Rapala NK03039-BRK Fish N Fillet
Rapala is among the world-known manufacturers of fishing tools and maintenance equipment, most of which are top-rated alternatives. This is a remarkably affordable option that you should take into account if you’re in the market for a Rapala filleting knife.
For one, the size of the unit makes it highly usable as this is a 7-inch model that works with most species of fish without advancing technical or safety difficulties to users. Secondly, it might be worth noting that the stainless steel in the blade of this product has been manufactured in Sweden, one of the most reputable countries when it comes to producing unparalleled fishing pocket knife materials.
What’s more, it’s safe to say that the knife is very good at doing its job as the classic Rapala reinforced birch varnished handle makes it both a sight for sore eyes and a winner in terms of usability. Keep in mind that handles made of wood can somewhat retain the fish smells. As such, they are best used occasionally, when one cannot be bothered by these scents. Since the model features a genuine leather sheath as well as a sharpener, it’s safe to say that twenty or thirty dollars aren’t too much to pay for such a high-quality model.
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3. Gone Fishing Gone Fishing Fillet Knife With Sheath Fillet Knife
It sometimes boils down to the cost of your fishing knife. As such, if you aren’t prepared to make an investment and break the bank in order to get a high-end alternative, perhaps you’re better of with the Gone Fishing model.
We couldn’t help noticing that this unit costs less than ten dollars, depending on the online retailer you will choose for your purchase. This model features a narrow and flexible blade that allows users to control it as best as possible thanks to the excellently designed handle.
While it might look somewhat traditional compared to the other units we’ve showcased earlier on, this one definitely does the trick if you’re looking for an entirely capable fishing knife that gets the job done and doesn’t cost a lot of money.
The size of the handle and the fact that it has been constructed with the user in mind make it worth considering if you’re still in the market for a fishing fillet knife. Since the blade of the Gone Fishing 25-YD601 measures 7.375 inches, it can be utilized for completing a variety of activities involving medium-sized fish. Many of the individuals that wrote reviews about this product claim that both the handle and the blade are well-made but the item has to be operated attentively so that users avoid cutting themselves.
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4. Sarge Knives SK-130 Fishing Kit with Fillet Knives
It would have been close to impossible to leave out this fishing kit from our list of recommendations as it comes with almost all the pieces you might require both in the field and in your kitchen. This set is composed of a series of knives and accessories that make it very hard to say no to.
For example, the Sarge Knives SK-130 is one of the few alternatives that include a cutting board, a carrying case, as well as a fishing knife sharpener. Two serious knives are included in the package of which the blade measures 6 inches and 7 inches, respectively. These are both fillet knives. Additionally, the owner might be happy to find that a 4-¾-inch blade serrated knife is also part of the deal, in this case.
The grips of all the knives are made of rubber, which is one of the most durable and corrosion-free materials we’ve talked about previously. In the end, it might be worth noting that the entire set is backed by a lifetime warranty, which gives users plenty of time to get in touch with the brand’s customer support and report any issues, should they occur.
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Electric fishing knives
5. Rapala Heavy Duty Electric Fillet Knife
Nothing’s better than the comfort and usability of electric knives. That’s why this model is among the most critically acclaimed ones we’ve encountered during our research.
Many fishers say that it’s the best Rapala electric knife for the money, and we’re not here to disagree. With a heavy-duty motor and a power of 110 volts, it goes without saying that the HDEFAC is worth having a look at. Besides, the model takes ease of use to a whole new level, what with its relaxed grip body.
The Rapala also features 7 and a half inch reciprocating style blades that make cutting through fish as easy as possible.
It’s not difficult to learn the works of the technique if you opt for this alternative, as it seems to be one of the top recommended choices of both experts and rookies. Sometimes, you might waste more time on cleaning your knife than you would on filleting your fish. That’s why Rapala was quick to meet the expectations of users and eventually make this model dishwasher safe. It goes without saying that the blades have to be separated from the motor before cleaning them using the dishwasher so that the electrical parts in the ensemble do not suffer any damage.
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6. American Angler PRO Professional Grade Electric Fillet Knife
On some accounts, the American Angler model is similar to the Rapala HDEFAC we were mentioning earlier on. For instance, this unit features the same amount of 110 Volt power so that the filleting is both consistent and smooth. That’s what we’re all looking for when trying to fillet a fish, isn’t it?
The difference between these two alternatives is that this one features an ergonomic design so that the fatigue felt by the user is as little as possible. Of course, using an electric alternative is considerably more comfortable compared to any manual option, but not all electric models are created the same. This one stands aside from the plethora of cheap models that often times fail to raise up to par.
It’s capable of tremendous performance and gets the job done in a timely fashion, allowing you and your family to enjoy a healthy meal prepared with the fish you’ve caught as quickly as possible. Plus, the neat thing about this model is that it comes with its own carrying bag so that you can store it and carry the knife around depending on your purpose and occasional needs. Most of the reviews we’ve analyzed speak highly of the way the American Angler unit manages to perform, regardless of the thickness of the fish.
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7. Rapala Deluxe Electric Fillet Knife AC/DC
Filleting your catch doesn’t have to be a chore you end up hating. Rapala, a world-known brand in the industry, is well-aware of the expectations of users, which is why the company invested a lot of time and effort into designing the perfect electric knife.
With an amazingly quiet and long-lasting motor and a cutting-edge airflow design, this model should be checked out by any prospective buyer. Aside from the fact that it is efficient, it also takes the cake when it comes to defining the idea of user-friendliness. In a nutshell, the Rapala Deluxe PGEF1 is a corded alternative that comes with an 18-ft of power cable. However, the model is extremely versatile as the package includes adapters for the AC, a 12V lighter plug and 12V post clips.
This kit is composed of a variety of accessories but what makes it one of the highly recommended alternatives out there is the fact that it has both the 6-inch and 7 and a half inch reciprocating blades included. Plus, the travel case is part of the deal with this one, which makes it a bargain considering that it usually can be purchased for less than sixty dollars.
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Best knife while fishing
Choosing the right knives used while fishing
The best fishing pocket knife is hard to find these days. One has to go through a lot of trouble in order to pick the right unit for one’s needs. Some users prefer a multi-tool, whereas others know exactly what they have in mind and perhaps want to go for a fishing bait knife. If you’re feeling a bit puzzled about the entire decision-making process, have a look at the following tips and tricks we’ve put together for your consideration.
Size
Not only is the size of the pocket knife important depending on your purpose and activity you have in mind, but you also ought to be aware of the fact that the local legislation of some states prohibit users from carrying around pocket knives of which the dimensions exceed a limitation. For instance, in Chicago, you’re forbidden from carrying around fishing pocket knives of which the blade is longer than 2.5 inches. Look for information online before ordering a model that may prove to be unusable, in the end.
Single-blade, multi-blade, or multi-tool
A Swiss Army knife fishing tool is a net winner when it comes to convenience. You’ll be able to do all sorts of things thanks to this kind of model. From carving a piece of wood to skinning an animal or cutting your line, you name it; all of these can be achieved with the help of a multi-tool. However, we’ve seen that their efficiency is somewhat limited as they’re typically smaller compared to single or multi-blade alternatives. Furthermore, since they have more parts, they might be less durable or strong and last for a lower amount of time compared to the units we’ve mentioned above. Even so, having a Swiss Army knife at hand is a good idea for when you can’t know what task you might feel like using it for.
Single-blade and multi-blade options are characterized by simplicity. The shape and sizes vary depending on the preferences of the buyer, but the fact of the matter remains that these units are better at doing their job compared to their complex multi-purpose counterparts. In many cases, they’re far better built and more sturdy, in spite of the fact that they somewhat lack variety. Many come with their own sheath and carrying bag, which is why they’re perfectly safe to carry around in one’s pocket.
Blade material and blade size
Stainless steel is the norm when it comes to blade material and that’s mainly due to the fact that no other material can be compared with it in terms of resistance to corrosion and durability. As such, we recommend getting a pocket knife with a blade made of steel regardless of what other people might try to tell you.
As for the size, you need to consider what you have in mind. If you’re looking for a dependable option that you can utilize just for cutting line, perhaps you’d be interested in purchasing a 2-inch single-blade alternative. By contrast, if you plan to use your knife for cutting through the fish you catch while on the boat or while relaxing with your friends on the shore, perhaps you’d be better off with a 6 or 7-inch option.
Fishing knife types
Selecting the best fishing knife for your purpose doesn’t have to be a process that you loathe. If you have enough patience to check what others have to say about the model you’re considering, you have a high chance of making the right call. Now you know what to look for so that you pick the right product to suit your preferences.
Bait knives
8. Rapala 4-Inch Bait Knife
The Rapala RSB4 is an affordable alternative that has people raving about the benefits it offers all thanks to its amazing features. This is a 4-inch stainless steel model that does what it’s supposed to do without forcing users to go through a lot of trouble.
The serrated upper blade, the grip handle, as well as the finger guard seem to be among the most critically acclaimed characteristics of this unit. What’s more, an easy clean open sheath is provided in the package, which makes it possible for owners to carry the knife around without worrying they’ll hurt their fingers or other fishing accessories.
When it comes to brand and item recognition, almost no other model can be compared to the Rapala RSB4 as it has garnered some of the best reviews in the line. Various individuals claim that the product met and exceeded their expectations as it’s sharp and sturdy and its serrated edge makes cutting through bait as easy as possible. Other buyers have spoken highly about the reasonable price of this alternative, considering that most online retailers sell it for as little as nine dollars. This detail is what makes it the top choice for beginners and rookies looking for a cheap bait knife.
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9. South Bend SBBK
This product is rather straightforward and easy to use, and the coolest thing about it is that it doesn’t even cost a fortune. It can be used to scar bait fish both conveniently and efficiently, thus allowing you to focus on the art of angling a whole lot better. Plus, it comes with a handy scaling edge
The thick, durable handle can make it possible for you to have a good grip on the situation. The blade is resistant to impact, which is why it might be able to serve you for many angling seasons to come.
Some of those who have purchased this South Bend alternative say that they use it for a variety of purposes ranging from braining to spearfishing. It appears to do a good job at both of these despite being one of the most budget-friendly choices in the line of bait knives. Described as a decent, no muss no fuss tool that does precisely what it has been designed to do, this South Bend model should definitely make your list.
Something that we need to point out is at the time this article was written, this product hadn’t received any complaints regarding its blade corroding.
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10. Berkley 3.5-Inch Bait Knife, Black
The Berkley is one of the simplest models we’ve come across during our entire research. For one, it’s a 3.5-inch bait knife that does a wonderful job when it comes to slicing through bait.
While it is true that its size is somewhat smaller compared to the Rapala model we’ve mentioned earlier on, the Berkley is still worth having a look at as the fact that it can be purchased for less than three dollars definitely means something. Featuring an uncomplicated design, the Berkley BCBK3.5 can be utilized for scarring bait in a secure fashion, all thanks to its non-slip grip handle.
As is the case with any other fishing item you might be interested in getting online, we recommend going through the ratings and reviews of the Berkley as well. While the number of opinions expressed about the quality of this unit is rather limited, the fact of the matter is that the vast majority of the reviews we’ve stumbled upon praise the value offered for the price. The only minor inconvenience of the product is that it features no sheath and as such has to be transported in a secure manner. It’s a nice addition to any tackle box.
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11. American Angler 30104
American Angler is one of the most respected brands in the industry of fishing tools and such. It goes without saying that this model is in complete accordance with the standards imposed by the company. Therefore, the 30104 features a German stainless steel blade and a set of specs that seem to be very attractive and that somehow manage to increase the ease of use of this unit.
The Santoprene handle in the 30104 lets users benefit from a comfortable and secure grip without sacrificing anything in terms of comfort. The same goes for the side thumb grips that make precise controlling a breeze.
As for the stainless steel, this one has been engineered in such a way so that it withstands the harsh conditions of saltwater and the less aggressive ones of saltwater. In short, this is a corrosion-resistant alternative that’s worth taking into account particularly if you’re looking for extreme sharpness that doesn’t go away over time. Based on the ratings gathered by the knife, it’s safe to say that it’s both lightweight and offers just the right amount of balance while remaining perfectly safe to use. In other words, it seems to be a bargain to consider.
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Utility fishing knives
12. Morakniv M-11827-Parent
Utility knives have to be a lot of things, but one of the most important ones seems to be versatility. This is a single-blade alternative that speaks to the needs of owners who aren’t interested in a multi-purpose option particularly because it might ultimately fail to raise up to par. The high-friction grip of the Morakniv model is one of the details that makes it a winner in terms of comfort and ease of use.
This is a 4.1-inch model of which the blade has been constructed using Sandvik stainless steel. All things considered, the Morakniv seems to be the right fit for people looking for a convenient and reliable outdoor knife that can be used for a large variety of activities, since the material used in the build of this product is a long-lasting type of steel that is corrosion and oxidation-resistant.
The Morakniv line is being developed in Sweden using high-quality pieces that make cutting small limbs, preparing food, and even using the knife for bait or fish on the spot some of the activities to look for. After all, skinning and filleting are two of the jobs this model has been created for.
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13. Morakniv Craftline 546
If you need a somewhat shorter utility knife, you should definitely check out the specs of the Craftline 546. It’s one of the most convenient and easiest to use alternatives that we have come across, and since we analyzed over one hundred choices, it’s safe to say that it is worth taking it into account.
Let’s see what makes this knife stand out from the crowd. On the one hand, the blade that it has been equipped with is made from stainless steel, which means that you have nothing to worry about in terms of it rusting. What’s more, the unit has been outfitted with a handle made out of impact-resistant plastic.
Best of all, the model comes with a handle that is larger when compared to that of other choices, which means that you will be able to grip it properly. Although it is reasonably priced, this model comes accompanied by a combi-sheath. Since Morakniv is world-known in the industry of manufacturing quality knives for fishing and hunting, it doesn’t come as a surprise that the brand is offering a lifetime guarantee on this product.
Having acquired the appreciation of over fifty satisfied customers, we say that this model is at least worth giving some thought to.
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14. 3oaks Filet
When it comes to durability and convenience, prospective buyers should also consider the 3oaks Filet option as it has been named one of the most well-made units in the line.
The versatility of this utility knife comes from the fact that its sure grip handle floats in virtually any kind of water, be it saltwater or freshwater. As for the actual purpose of the knife, you won’t have any trouble utilizing it regardless of your preferred use considering that it can cut through meat and bone just as well. The sharpness of the product has been praised by many buyers all over the world, particularly fishers who enjoy family experiences such as long expeditions.
From what we have gathered by reading the reviews received by the 3oaks Filet, the handle is extremely easy to hold and this is mainly due to the fact that it is lightweight and allows owners to benefit from all the control they might feel is necessary. While there have been various consumers who have reported that the fish needed a bit of sharpening right out of the box, it seems that it managed to maintain its edge so that buyers were not forced to repeat the sharpening process.
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15. Cressi Borg RC559100
In spite of the fact that the Cressi Borg is considerably less affordable compared to other alternatives we’ve showcased above, it seems to be worth every penny. After all, any fisher knows that getting a good utility knife can sometimes be an investment they have to make so that they no longer have to purchase other models that are more efficient than their first choice.
The Cressi Borg stands out from other models thanks to its blade made of 304 stainless steel, which is said to resist corrosion a whole lot better when compared to carbon steel and other materials. This is a 2-sided alternative, one of which has a straight edge and the other is serrated. As such, this product is fit for various activities ranging from cutting a net or fishing line to cleaning the fish you might have caught.
Furthermore, the Cressi Borg comes with a sheath that has been uniquely designed to make sure that users are safe at all times. The locking mechanism for one-handed release is what makes this diving knife a winner regarding usability. The model has garnered over 50 positive Amazon reviews which just shows how well-made and sharp it really is.
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16. Rogue River Tactical USMC
Even though the Rogue River Tactical USMC isn’t a particularly heavy-duty product, it might be a good option for individuals looking for a utility knife that costs less than twenty dollars. This seems to be the standard price whether you choose to order it from Amazon or any other online retailer of your choice.
This product is a 12-inch knife of which the blade measures 7 inches, thus letting owners cut through fish and even make some fillets on the field. As is the case with other models we’ve gone through during our research, this one comes with its own sheath that has been constructed out of hard plastic. Subsequently, once the knife has been inserted into the sheath, it has no risk of harming the owner.
We’ve seen that many individuals choose to attach it to their belts, in spite of the fact that there have been buyers who claim that they didn’t find this method as the most comfortable thing in the world. In the end, the combat-style knife seems to do exactly what it has been designed for, although it might be less versatile or high-end when compared to units such as the previously described Cressi Borg model.
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Most popular fishing knife brands
Rapala
Rapala is one of the world-known manufacturers in the industry, whether you’re looking for a Rapala filleting knife or just a fishing folding knife. The beginnings of the brand originate in 1936 in Finland, when Lauri Rapala came to the conclusion that, in order to catch bigger fish, he needed a small but entirely capable carving knife with the help of which he needed to prepare bait such as tiny fish. Gradually, the man decided that he would make his own lure and gear, which are two product categories that remain among the most popular ones developed by Rapala even today.
The quality of the products built by the company became so well-known that the brand eventually decided to create Northern American subsidiaries so that both American and Canadian fishers could benefit from the technological innovations of these units. Today, Rapala knives are being sold in more than one hundred and forty countries across the world. It appears that the brand is one of the few manufacturers of various tackle categories that range from reels and rods to tools and electric fishing knives. What’s more, it might be worth pointing out that it’s also one of the unique companies that still manufactures lures made of wood.
Morakniv
Everyone knows that American fishermen can sometimes be nationalists and thus be interested in purchasing a 100% U.S.A.-made fishing knife, whether it’s for sale or not. Occasionally, it’s not a bad idea to check out other products as well, such as the ones manufactured by Morakniv. This brand is based in Sweden. Subsequently, all of the units designed by the company, be they destined for the food service or food industry or intended for sports and recreation, are constructed out of high-quality Swedish materials. Morakniv has over one hundred years of experience in the field and even today, the brand manufactures its products in a small factory in Ostnor, Mora.
In spite of being a somewhat traditional company, Morakniv has managed to understand the expectations and needs of modern users, thus starting to include various technological developments in their products. Some of the most critically acclaimed units belonging to the brand include knives used for hobby and woodcarving, professional food industry, and hunting, fishing, and exploring. Most of these units are made either with stainless steel or with carbon steel, and many come with their own sheaths. If what you’re wondering is how to sharpen fishing knife, you don’t have to worry about anything as Morakniv also manufactures diamond sharpeners for every taste and necessity.
Kershaw
Compared to other manufacturers in the same field, Kershaw is rather new on the market. The basis of the brand was set in the 1970s in the United States but it is worth stating that this is a manufacturer that belongs to a Japanese premier blade producer, Kai. Why is this detail so important? Kai has been in the area of product development for over one hundred years during which time the company has focused on quality, innovation, and excellent design. The same principles are applied to every Kershaw product, currently manufactured in Tualatin, Oregon. In other words, if you’re looking for an American fishing knife, you’re all set with Kershaw.
The units built by this company are fit for various users as some are utility knives that are very easy to use and get the job done no muss no fuss, whereas others are high-end filleting alternatives that have even chefs raving about them. Other models you might be interested in range from shears and K-tools to storage bags and blade sharpeners. The price of all these units differs depending on the purpose of the buyer and the quality he or she is aiming for. Some models can be as affordable as thirty dollars and the price of others can go well beyond one hundred dollars.
Buck Knives
And so we come to one of the oldest companies in the field. With Buck Knives, what seems to be worth noting is that it’s an all-American brand that started out in Kansas back in 1902. For fifty years, all of the products manufactured by this small company were hand-made, right up until the 1960s, when Al Buck made a breakthrough innovation by building the Model 110 Folding Hunter. While current units are mass-produced, you needn’t worry about anything if you want to choose one from Buck Knives as the brand stands by its quality standards and treasures its customers.
As one of the leading manufacturers in the industry, it’s safe to say that there’s little to no chance of getting a poorly built Buck Knives unit. After all, this is a family-owned business that’s mostly focused on durability and value, which is why many of its items are backed by a forever warranty. What this means for the end-user is that he or she will have the freedom to return the products that have somehow suffered from defects in workmanship or material. In short, whether you’re hunting for a new folding knife or fixed blade model, you’re likely to have your cake and eat it with this esteemed brand.
How to take care of your fishing knife
Keeping your chosen knife in perfect working condition can be done with ease, as long as you stick to some ground rules and learn how to sharpen it efficiently. Out of all of the fishing knives you might be the owner, it’s safe to say that pocket and utility knives require the most care. Because of all the tiny places everything goes in the right place, they might need a little more patience than cleaning a single-blade unit. When possible, use a drop of light oil to improve the smoothness of the blade action.
As for sharpening, not all knives are created the same. Japanese models are typically made of carbon steel, which is why they require more maintenance as they’re more prone to corrosion compared to their stainless steel counterparts. The first thing you have to do is decide whether you want to utilize a whetstone or a knife sharpener. Mechanisms are significantly easier to use by amateurs as a set of water stones can be a bit daunting for a first-time user. The perfect degree of most models seems to be a 15 to 17 angle and a secondary edge with a 20 to 23-degree angle. Cut by moving the edge away from you because these things can be quite dangerous if you’re not paying attention all the time. Moreover, we recommend you try to refrain from using a power-driven grinding wheel, although you might own one. Aside from the fact that it has not been primarily designed for the task, it might take a grave toll on your knife and burn the temper of the blade.
Best knife sharpeners
Work Sharp WSKTS-KO
This electric model is a sharpener you should bear in mind as it can be used both for knives and some of your other tools. The abrasive belts that it has been outfitted with can make it possible for the blades to regain their sharpness and edge in as little time as possible.
The neat thing about the WSKTS-KO is that it can be utilized for a variety of tasks that can range from actual sharpening to grinding. Granted, this choice might be slightly less affordable compared to others, especially manual sharpeners.
Nonetheless, it seems to be worth the effort as over one thousand of those who have purchased it seem to have nothing but good things to say about its performance and features.
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Smith’s PP1 Pocket Pal
Manual sharpeners might be more or less effective depending on what you intend to use them for. If buying an electric makes little to no sense because you either think that it is too expensive or it would mean for you to sharpen your fishing knife only when you’re at home, then the Pocket Pal is a great choice for you.
It’s affordable, efficient, and above all, portable. You will be able to use it to sharpen all of your fishing knives with the services ensured by this tool as its diamond components work even on serrations and gut hooks.
Besides, the blades and stones that this model comes outfitted with can be replaced. If you’re in the market for an affordable and compact knife sharpener, we suggest you try this one out.
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Presto 08810
If you want to combine business with pleasure, which is to say you need both a kitchen knife sharpener and one that works with all of your hunting and fishing models, perhaps you should give a shot to this Presto choice.
It comes with interchangeable blade guides that can make it possible for you to sharpen your knives at any angle. Besides, the coolest thing about the product is that its blades automatically adjust the angle depending on the specific features of your knife.
One thing that we have to add, however, is that this product can’t be used with really small knives considering its size. You might have a bit of trouble utilizing it for bait knives, so it’s not particularly designed for this purpose.
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Lansky LKCLX
This system is among the most affordable yet fully functional alternatives out there as it is more than fit to complete the sharpening of any kitchen or hobby and hunting knife.
This is a 5-stone set that includes extra-coarse, coarse, medium, extra-fine, and fine hones. Making the difference between one and the other isn’t difficult as they have been color-coded. The manufacturers are also offering a special honing oil so that the task is even more at hand.
A knife clamp, as well as a carrying case, are part of the deal with this one, which is downright impressive considering that it costs less than forty dollars.
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GVDV 3-in-1
The GVDV is a winner when it comes to versatility which seems to be one of the amazing benefits it offers even though it costs less than twenty dollars.
This is a small and lightweight alternative that has been tested by various consumers in the United States who claim that it’s their top choice when it comes to sharpening both kitchen and hunting and fishing knives. However, it might be worth underlining that this is a very coarse sharpener that may fail to impress users who are looking for a somewhat finer alternative.
Even so, it offers great value for the price and has received a wide degree of appreciation.
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Pro Blade 3 Stage
One of the neat things about the Pro Blade model is that it can be used both for hunting and fishing units and for regular kitchen knives.
Whether your model is manufactured with stainless steel or carbon steel, it doesn’t really matter as this product can sharpen it. Additionally, the rubber grip of this option makes it a safe choice for users who might be a little worried about operating a sharpener.
Fortunately, this one can be placed on a cutting board or table so that all you have to do is move the knife through the triple-action sharpeners of the unit.
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Bibliography:
1) Fish knife our most pretentious utensil
2) The Basics of the Fish Knife
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