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A fishing knife is often overlooked during such an experience. Most anglers consider their fishing equipment and invest in new tools and upgrades. With all these, everything requires a bit of attention and a fishing knife is worth some research too. While you may not always need it, it is handy to cook your fish on a barbecue or even deal with some of the tools you have. Any knife could do some of the work, but it is undoubtedly easier to do it with a specialized tool.
Choosing the best fishing pocket knife is a bit challenging though. There are more options out there and each of them promises you the world. Some units stand out in the crowd though. They come from reputable manufacturers hence benefit from a great reputation and positive reviews. However, you have to analyze your personal needs before making a final decision. After all, what works for some anglers may not work for you.
So, what are the top-rated fishing pocket knives on the market, and what makes them so special?
2024’s 5 Best Fishing Pocket Knives
CASE XX WR 320094 F SS
Versatility – This knife is a versatile middle choice between a series of different knives. It makes a good folding knife, as well as a fishing knife, a camping knife, and a classic Swiss pocket knife. In other words, apart from the actual knife, you also have a scaler blade, not to mention the hook disgorger at the end of it.
Sizing standards – When closed, the knife measures 4.25 inches. That is the size of the handle. The blade is similar in size. The same rule applies to the scaler blade. You can take both blades out by unfolding them or you can only work with one, just like if you had a traditional Swiss knife.
Multiple uses – The unit has a few different features that make it ideal for fishing, such as the scaler blade. But at the same time, it is excellent for a plethora of other applications. It can be used in hunting as well, not to mention outdoor camping experiences or small fixes around your home.
Materials – The knife is built with case true sharp stainless steel. This type of steel is based on high carbon. It helps maintain the edge sharp or ages – much better than classic steel. It also provides extra strength, not to mention its resistance to corrosion and rust. If you use it for fishing, you probably know that saltwater can be quite corrosive.
Blades – The long clip blade can be used as a multipurpose unit. It is excellent for detailed operations. On the other hand, the scaler blade is serrated. It is not extremely sharp, but only because you need to get under scaled without damaging the skin. As for the hook disgorger, you can remove the hook more easily and comfortably.
Pros
- Specific features to make fishing a breeze
- Made from durable and corrosion-resistant materials
- Multiple blades for multipurpose uses
- Scaler blade specifically built for fish
Cons
- Not extremely sturdy, but good enough and compact for more intense operations
Benchmade Mini Griptilian 556 EDC
Versatility and uses – This unit is made to perform, regardless of what you need it for. While it is excellent during your fishing adventures, it is just as handy for a plethora of other operations. It is a folding knife that could go with you anywhere and handle all kinds of necessities. It is sturdy and feels durable.
Blade design – The blade is partially serrated. You have a few serrations on each side of the blade. It is made of 154CM stainless steel. Not only will it resist rust and corrosion (common in saltwater), but it will also maintain its edge sharpness overtime. You also have a precision drop point design for exquisite precision.
Handle – The handle is just as important. It is fully ambidextrous, so it makes no difference whether you are left or right-handed. Other than that, the grip is textured, so it is less likely to slip out of your hands. It is made of glass-filled nylon. No matter what kind of abuse you give your knife, it will easily pass the test of time.
Locking mechanism – The locking mechanism is often the element that makes the difference when looking for the best fishing pocket knife. This model comes with an axis locking mechanism. Not only is it safe and can prevent accidents, but it is also very smooth to open or close. It has a reversible clip, as well as a lanyard hole for various carry options.
Sizing and maintenance – The blade measures 2.91 inches. When opened, the whole knife measures 6.78 inches. It is compact and easy to use. It weighs under three ounces. In terms of maintenance, do it manually – just clean it with tap water and a bit of soap after each use, then let it dry before closing it. Avoid cleaning it in a dishwasher.
Pros
- Textured grip to prevent slipping
- Durable 154CM stainless steel
- Smooth opening and closing mechanism
- Serrations on both sides of the blade
Cons
- The black finish will most likely wear off with time and constant uses
Knife Knation Handmade Damascus Steel
Handmade features – Knife Knation has gained a reputation for creating knives from scratch. Most of its knives are handmade, so each of them has something unique. This unit is versatile and can be used for a series of applications. You can use it on your fishing trip, but you can also use it in survival adventures or camping.
Sizing standards – When closed, the knife measures 3.75 inches – the size of the handle and approximately the same size for the blade. When open, the unit measures 6.5 inches. It is relatively lightweight for how sturdy it seems, but still heavier than other units in this price range – just over six ounces.
Blade – The blade brings in multiple layers of 1095 and 15N20 high carbon steels, as well as a nickel layer. The blade is treated for a solid HRC of 58 to 60. The Damascus layers add to its beautiful profile, as well as its durability. It can resist rust and corrosion, but it will also retain the sharpness for ages. The top side of the blade is partially serrated.
Handle – The handle is made of olive wood. It is one of the most durable types of wood on the market. It is inexpensive and it looks good, giving this knife a classic appearance. There are a few small bolsters to keep the blade in place, as well as a small guard. The material prevents accidental slipping.
Maintenance and package – Despite being built to take heavy-duty adventures and uses, this knife is quite fragile when cleaned in a dishwasher, so avoid it. It will dull the blade. Instead, open it and clean it with a bit of soap and some water. Let it dry completely before folding it. A leather pouch is also included in the package.
Pros
- Comes with a protective leather sheath or pouch
- Beautiful design due to the olive wood and Damascus blade
- A solid blade that can retain sharpness for ages
- Easy to fold and unfold
Cons
- While very sharp, the knife could still do with a bit of extra sharpening
GVDV Fishing Pocket Folding Knife
Versatility and looks – Mostly designed for outdoor uses, this knife is suitable for small repairs around your house too. It is a great fishing knife that can be used in outdoor and survival camping adventures too. Not only is it extremely useful and versatile, but it also looks good and can make a good impression.
Handle – The handle is ergonomic and durable. It measures 4.5 inches – the size of the knife when folded too. When unfolded, the knife will measure 7.9 inches. The handle consists of two different materials. You have stainless steel coated with titanium, but it is bolstered to a beautiful wooden part as well. It ensures a good grip and does not slip.
Blade – The blade is straight, meaning there are no serrations. It is based on 7Cr17 stainless steel, which resists rust and corrosion. It is titanium plated for more durability and great looks. Other metallic components are based on 2Cr13 stainless steel. The blade has a 55-58 HRC, while other accessories have 45-48 HRC.
Extras – In terms of extras, you have a mini handguard. Folding the unit is fairly simple – open or close it whether you are left or right-handed. It comes with a plastic protector tip to ensure safety, as well as some protection when folded. Other than that, you can carry it with no problems at all due to its belt clip.
Weight and maintenance – The knife is sturdy and solid It weighs just over 0.4 pounds, so it is a bit heavier than other units in this range. However, quality is never light. As for maintenance, make sure you clean it manually after using or soiling it. It should not be cleaned in a dishwasher. Also, let it dry before folding and storing it.
Pros
- Solid and sturdy materials in its composition
- Beautiful appearance for both the blade and the handle
- Easy to open or close
- Razor-sharp out of the box
Cons
- Titanium coating might fade with time
Spyderco C88PYL2
Superior materials – Spyderco might have created the best fishing pocket knife if durability is your primary concern. This knife can take lots of stress. Its handle carries the Salt 2 quality standards. It is made of solid fiberglass nylon. It is 100% rust proof and features nitrogen-based H1 steel. Every other metallic component is designed with rust-resistant materials. This knife will never fail on you.
Top-notch handle – The handle is a mix of polymer and glass fiber. It is then injection molded. The material is quite lightweight, so the whole unit barely weighs a couple of ounces. You can buy this knife in a few different colors. Quality is the same, but the handle will be the only different component.
Blade – The blade measures three inches in length. It is smooth and features no teeth or serrations. It comes with a pointy tip, which makes the knife more versatile. At the same time, it is worth noting that you have a thumb hole, which is superior to pretty much any other unit on the market.
Extras – The knife features bevels ground with a concave radius. You have a hollow grind. Furthermore, it is ideal for ambidextrous uses, meaning it makes no difference if you are left or right-handed. Plus, the handle features a textured surface, meaning it will not slip out of your hands if they are wet.
Sizing and maintenance – The blade is shorter than the handle. When closed, the knife measures 4.25 inches in length – the handle length. At the same time, it is 7.25 inches long when unfolded. Maintenance is fairly simple – just do not toss it in the dishwasher. Let it dry before closing and storing it.
Pros
- Durable textured handle to prevent slipping
- Rustproof materials used in its composition
- Razor-sharp blade with a large thumb hole
- Comfortable to open, close and use
Cons
- Finger hole might feel a bit too sharp out of the box
Frequently Asked Questions on Fishing Pocket Knives
Are folded knives better than fixed blade knives?
The answer is yes and no. It depends on what you need. A folding knife is more practical, easier to carry, convenient, and versatile. On the other hand, a fixed blade knife is sturdier and the blade is better stuck to the handle. However, while it has power and strength, it lacks versatility and convenience. Different people have different needs, so you will need to make this choice with your necessities in mind. It’s similar to choosing a fishing reel—the so-called “right one” will ultimately depend on your unique needs and preferences.
How many blades should I have in a fishing knife?
Generally speaking, one blade should be enough for pretty much any operation involved in fishing. But then, some knives come with a few different blades. You could have a straight sharp blade, as well as a scaling blade that will take scales out without ruining the skin and meat. It is only a matter of personal preferences and convenience.
What is the best way to scale a fish?
There are more ways to scale a fish, but some methods stand out in the crowd. You will need the back of a pocket knife for this operation or a scaling blade. You will have to hold the fish firmly by its tail. Scrape the tail from the tail towards the head. You will remove scales in a stroking movement. Some fish have easily flaking scales, while others require a bit of work. Make sure you wash the fish properly once you are done.
Conclusion
Any of the above-mentioned products could make the ideal fishing pocket knife. They come with a plethora of positive reviews and recommendations, so they work and can make your life easier. Which one is the best fishing pocket knife? It is totally up to you and your necessities.
Hi, I am Jay. I am the creator of Knife Guides, your one-stop site for everything related to knives. I am a computer engineer by profession, knife aficionado by passion. Here I work with a group of people who’ve always had a passion for knives and blades. Over the years we’ve kind of become experts and decided to share our knowledge and ideas. I am also an avid hiker and enjoy offshore gamefishing.
