Top 13 Best Folding Fishing Knives on the Market
During fishing, various troubles can occur that interfere with the process. And to solve it, you may need a fishing pocket knife. One of the fisherman’s accessories is a folding knife. Every fisherman should have it, depending on their preferences. I prefer the classic simple design of the folding knife, which is easy and convenient to use. Therefore, for my review, I chose these models of knives.
For me, it is important that the knife has a high-quality blade that is always sharp and doesn’t rust from seawater. The knife should be held comfortably in my hand, so the handle of the knife shouldn’t slide in my hand. You may need a knife for some repair work or to prepare a fillet of fish. In this article, I will tell you how to choose the right knife, what to pay attention to, and show the best models in my opinion. After reading the article, you can already choose a pocket knife.
What Types of Folding Knives Are There?
- The knife blade is opened by hand
- The blade pops out and opens automatically
You can find knives in three types:
- Manual Folder – Folding Tactical & Combat Knives
- Fixed Blade – Fixed Blade Knives
- Multi-tool – Multi-Tools Pocket Knives & Pocket Tools
My best choice is Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops SWA24S 7.1in S.S.
Its key features:
- The knife comes with a pocket clip
- The blade is made of black oxide stainless steel
- Blades don’t slip
Best Fishing Pocket Knives for Hunting & Fishing
1# Smith & Wesson Extreme SWA24S – Best Pocket Knife
This is one of the most high-quality and convenient knives that I used. Its blades are made of black oxide stainless steel. It is high-carbon stainless steel and is considered to be harder, stronger, and sharper when compared to usual stainless steel.
There are also clip-on blades that are partially serrated. It doesn’t slip so it’s safe. I never had any scratches or cuts while using it. Thanks to the high-quality material, the knife serves me for many years. It is very convenient to take with you. This is really a pocket knife. Its length is 7.1 inches when opened. And the blade length is 3.1 inches. The knife is light. Weighs only 3.5 ounces. When I have it in my pocket, it doesn’t make me uncomfortable. Because it is compact and foldable, it easily fits in your pocket.
I also love this knife for its extra features. The first is a pocket clip. I can clip it in my pocket or to my other fishing gear. If you are left-handed like me, then the knife is for you. Its double construction allows you to use the knife both right and left-handed.
The blade never opens on its own. It doesn’t open due to the presence of a liner lock. Also, the knife has an index flipper, jimping, and ambidextrous thumb handles. If you want to get an affordable, convenient, and durable knife, then choose this model!
2# Spring Assisted Knife Pocket Folding Knife Military Style – Best Knife For Fishing
The perfect knife that you can take with you on a fishing trip and not only. It is small and light in weight. Its locking mechanism is reliable, the knife won’t open itself and you will not get hurt. Don’t worry about the unexpected discoveries of a knife. These aren’t common cases for knives in this price range. So, it’s a good choice. It is also convenient to carry in your pocket thanks to the clip. You can set the knife for the pocket and it will hold perfectly.
The clip is strong and long enough. It is made of stainless steel. The material is durable; the knife will be in excellent condition for a long time. The most important thing is that this material resists corrosion. It has spikes for the thumb of both the left and right hand. So if you’re left-handed, don’t go any further. This knife is what you need. You will be satisfied with this purchase and it will be a great helper for you during fishing!
3# MTech USA Ballistic MT-A705 Spring Assist Folding Knife – Best Folding Knife
If you want to have not just a black knife, but a color and attractive one, then choose this model. This knife has not only good quality but also an interesting design. You can find this knife in different colors, choose your favorite. This folding knife has a spring that allows you to quickly open the knife. And a spring-loaded lever locks the knife in place.
The knife cuts perfectly, but its functions don’t end there. You can use it to open the bottle because the knife comes with a bottle opener. Use as a screwdriver or for bending wire and more. It can help you deal with any situation. The handle is made of titanium aluminum. And the blade is made of stainless steel with a titanium coating. Convenient to carry thanks to the pocket clip. A knife that will become indispensable for you!
4# Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Pocket Knife – Best Compact Knife
A compact knife which you can take on a fishing trip. Its opening is quick and intuitive. You don’t need to put much effort into it. The blade holds the edge perfectly and has low visibility. There are no notches that can complicate the process so sharpening is reasonable. With constant use for a year, you will need to sharpen it 1-2 times. It is safe to use; the blade stays in place thanks to the liner lock. The knife has a stylish and smooth design. If you want to solve all problems with one knife, then you have found it. You don’t need to buy many knives for all uses. This knife is suitable for all your tasks!
5# Sterling Brooke Folding Knife – Best Small Knife
The manufacturer took care not only about the usability and functions of this knife but also about its design. It doesn’t look like an ordinary knife, everyone will know that this knife is specially created for fishing and that you are fond of it. It is made in the shape of a fish. The blade is made of stainless steel and it stays in place when you open it thanks to the lock. The blades are sharp and durable. It has a small size so it feels great in your pocket. You can attach it with a clip for convenience. Do you want to have a high-quality knife with an unusual design? Then choose this one!
6# SOG Wood Folding Pocket Knife
This is a thin and attractive knife that you can take with you on a fishing trip. It feels great in your hand. Its blade is sharp and works well. It is designed to be carried in your pocket and is easy to do with a special clip. Made of high-quality stainless steel that resists corrosion and is durable. Easy to open with one hand. In this knife, you will find everything you need from a knife!
7# TAC-FORCE TF606WS Engraved Tactical Assisted Opening Pocket Knife
Oh, this knife is perfect as a gift. If you are looking for a good gift for someone who is fond of fishing, then don’t look any further. Why is this knife a great gift? It’s personalized. You can choose the label on it that you want. Select the text you want to dedicate to the person and it will be engraved on one side of the handle. The text is easy to read because it is dark. The knife itself is high-quality and works well. The blade is long, sharp, and partially serrated. The handle is wooden and there is a clip. Perfect gift for your loved ones!
8# Atomic Bear Folding Knife – Best Functional Knife
The knife has an excellent appearance and functionality. Excellent handle material. It is rough enough to provide a good grip, but it is comfortable to hold in your hands. The clip holds the knife well in your pocket. The knife is compact so it fits perfectly in your pocket. The blade is made of stainless steel. It copes well with precise slicing. Thanks to the teeth, you can cut very rough material.
9# Pocket Knife Spring Assisted Folding Knives – Best Sharp Pocket Knife
A knife with high-quality blades. The blade is sharp as a razor, well sharpened. And as necessary, it is easy to sharpen it to a very sharp state. This is a great knife that you can take with you on a fishing trip!
10# Western Active Honey Badger Pocket Knife – Best High-Quality Knife
A knife that will be a great helper during fishing. It is small in size, so just put it in your pocket. It’s safe, it doesn’t open on its own. The blade is well sharpened and cuts perfectly. Good quality knife at an affordable price!
11# Grand Way Gentleman’s Folding Knife – Best Stainless Steel Knife
The wooden handle of this pocket knife won’t leave you indifferent. It is comfortable, the hand doesn’t slip and doesn’t sweat. The material is stainless steel 440 C. it is resistant to corrosion and durable. The blade is sharp but safe.
12# GVDV Pocket Folding Knife
A great wooden knife that you can take with you on a fishing trip. The material is stainless steel. It is resistant to rust and corrosion. You can not only gut fish, but also cut paper, cardboard and so on. There is a belt clip for easy carrying.
13# Police Tactical Knife for Law Enforcement
Sharp, functional, and attractive pocket knife. There you will find a built-in glass-breaking tip, as well as a seat belt cutter. And of course a sharp stainless steel blade. For your safety, the knife has a safety lock and a spring assistant. This is a quality knife for a good price!
What Is The Best Fishing Knife For You?
There are things that distinguish fishing knives from others. Below I have given the characteristics that you should pay attention to.
Type of Knife
The type of blade depends on your purpose of using the knife. If you want a sturdy knife that will remain in your fishing gear. Then a fixed blade will be the best option for you. If you are looking for a more compact portable knife, choose a folding knife. It is easier to carry, takes up less space, and is safer. Choose the type of blade that will fit your needs.
Benefits of Using Pocket Knife
Most fishing knives are fillets that are used for cleaning and cooking fish. Then there are knives for zooming, baiting, eviscerating, and other various useful functions. Maybe you don’t need a knife, and a good pair of fishing scissors, pliers will do you good.
Size – Best Optimal Size Fish Knife
If you need a knife for cutting fillets, the blade is likely to be 4″-8″. Folding knives and multipurpose tools sporting blade is in the category of 2”-4”. If you plan to carry your fishing knife in your pocket, it’s obvious that a smaller blade will be easier and more convenient.
Material – Best Steel Fish Knife Materials
Fishing knives are made for simple tasks such as cutting a line or gutting a fish. That’s why they don’t produce the most prestigious steels on the market. The most popular steel in the fishing knife:
- 420 Steels
- 5CR Steel
- 7Cr Steel
- Stainless Steel
The list is not exhaustive, but it covers most fishing knives. And if you noticed in my review, stainless steel is used most often.
Handle – Fish Handle Pocket Knife
The handle is also an important factor in fishing knives. You need one that will allow a firm grip when wet. You should be comfortable using it with a sweaty hand. All of the above handles provide a reliable grip and will be durable. The most popular handle materials:
- Rubber
- Polymer
- Cork
- Nylon
- Micarta
- G-10
- FN
Most Popular Fishing Knife Brands
Smith & Wesson Pocket Knives
This is a well-known company that has been on the market for many years. It won the trust of its customers. Today, the company produces a wide range of high-quality knives at an affordable price. Smith & Wesson knives are designed for a wide range of consumers: fishermen, hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and so on.
Grandway Knives / Grand Way
The knives of this brand are famous for their sharp blades. But they are safe to use. They have comfortable handles. Every fisherman will find what he needs.
MTech Knives
The brand is engaged in the production of affordable, reliable, and beautiful models of pocket knives. They are famous for their interesting and attractive handles. It is important for every fisherman to find a convenient handle. This brand gives you this opportunity.
Sterling Brooke Knives
The company differs from others because it pays special attention to each pocket knife. There is no one similar. Each one is made individually for you. On your knife will be the text that you want to see. Attractive and unusual design, as well as high-quality knives, is what attracts buyers.
Kershaw Knives
This company has been on the market for more than 100 years. She knows better than anyone what it is to produce high-quality, innovative, and stylish products. It offers a large selection of fishing knives. Everyone will find what they would like.
SOG Specialty Knives & Tools
The knives of this brand are only useful. There is nothing superfluous in them. They are easy to use, durable, and attractive. And most importantly safe. You will hear from many fishermen that the knives of this brand are wonderful.
Fishing Knife Laws
The fact is that knife laws vary widely at the state level. Some states allow carrying knives of any type, while others only allow carrying knives of a certain length. In other States, there are exceptions for fishing and hunting knives. Check the fishing knife laws for your state. This is the only way to find out if you can buy this new fillet knife for your upcoming fishing trip. Don’t neglect this item as it is very important if you don’t want to have problems.
Conclusion
A fishing knife is an important piece of equipment for any fisherman. When you are looking for a fishing knife, look for it by certain characteristics. Such as:
- Type
- Size
- Use
- Materials and construction
- Price
I hope this guide was useful to you. And I wish you all the best of luck in finding your perfect fishing knife!
Tags: #best fillet knife / #best fish fillet knife / #best electric fillet knife / #best fillet knife for salmon / #who makes the best fish fillet knife / #what is the best electric fillet knife
I live in Tenerife (Canary Islands) for the last 10+ years and share my daily fishing experiences on my website. Many years of personal experience as a fisherman and the vast experience of my friends allow me to write professionally on any fishing topics (from choosing a flashlight and equipment to deep-sea fishing).
All of my advice is based on practical real-world experience and will be useful to both novice anglers and professionals. Read more about the author.
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As someone who has owned and used the Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops SWA24S S.S. Folding knife, I can confidently say that it is a great addition to any collection.
Firstly, the knife is well-built with a sturdy and durable stainless steel blade. The handle has a great grip and is comfortable to hold for extended periods, which is important for tasks that require a bit more time and effort.
One of the standout features of this knife is the assisted opening mechanism, which allows for easy one-handed opening with just a flick of the wrist. This feature comes in handy in situations where you need to quickly access your knife, and it has never failed me yet.
Another great feature of this knife is the pocket clip, which makes it easy to carry around and access whenever needed. The price point is also reasonable for a knife of this quality, making it a great value for money.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, the blade is quite sharp out of the box, so it’s important to be cautious and take your time when using it. Additionally, the knife may be a bit heavy for those who prefer a lighter option, but I find that it adds to the overall sturdiness and durability of the knife.
I highly recommend the Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops SWA24S S.S. Folding knife to anyone in need of a reliable and sturdy everyday carry knife. It has exceeded my expectations and has become one of my go-to knives for any task.
The MTech USA Ballistic Spring Assisted Folding Knife, I can say that it is a great addition to any collection.
One of the standout features of this knife is the spring-assisted opening mechanism, which makes it incredibly easy to deploy with just one hand. Once open, the blade locks securely into place with the liner lock, ensuring safety during use. The blade itself is 3.75 inches long and 3mm thick, made of sturdy stainless steel.
The handle of the knife is made of aluminum and even has a bottle opener, making it a versatile tool to have on hand. It also comes with a silver stainless steel pocket clip, which makes it easy and safe to carry around. The knife measures 4.5 inches when closed, making it a convenient size to carry in your pocket or bag.
What’s more, Mtech USA offers a wide range of tactical folding knives, fixed-blade knives, archery products, and security items at competitive prices. The Mtech USA ballistic line, in particular, consists of all spring-assisted opening folding knives.
I highly recommend the Mtech USA Ballistic Spring Assisted Folding Knife to anyone in need of a reliable and versatile everyday carry knife. It has exceeded my expectations and has become one of my go-to knives for any task.
I’ve been contemplating getting a pocket knife for quite some time now, but the overwhelming number of options out there always held me back. Every time I tried to choose, I found myself feeling intimidated and indecisive.
But one day, I stumbled upon the Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops SWA24S S.S. Folding knife on sale for about $10, and since I’ve always known Smith & Wesson to be a reliable brand, I thought I’d give it a try. I figured that if it didn’t meet my needs, I wouldn’t be losing out on much.
To be honest, I was torn between choosing a manual/thumb-assisted or spring-assisted opening knife. However, when I saw this knife, I knew that a manual/thumb-assisted opener would be perfect for my first knife. (Although, I eventually ended up getting both types – more on that later!)
Once I received the knife, I was impressed with its weight and construction. It felt great in my hand and locked securely. I knew that it would be ideal for my everyday cutting tasks.
I’m glad that I finally made the decision to get a pocket knife, and I’m even happier that I chose the Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops SWA24S S.S. Folding knife as my first one. It’s a great knife at an affordable price, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who’s looking for a reliable and functional pocket knife.
I present my opinion on the best folding portable knives for fishing and filleting. I’ve gone through my fair share of folding knives. Over the years, I’ve tried out various models and brands, and these are my top picks for the best folding knives for fishing:
These are all great options for fishing knives. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what features you value most in a knife, but any of these would be a solid choice.
As someone who loves to cook and fish, finding the best folding fillet knife is always at the top of my mind. I know how important it is to have a reliable knife in the kitchen or out on the boat, and a folding knife is especially handy since it can easily fit in my pocket.
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a folding fillet knife is the quality of the blade. I prefer high-quality carbon steel blades because they are easy to sharpen and make quick work of any fish. However, it’s important to remember to dry off the blade after using it to prevent rust.
A good folding fillet knife can make all the difference in the kitchen or on the boat. It can transform a simple catch into a delicious meal, quickly and efficiently. But selecting the wrong knife can ruin your meal and even cause frustration and injury.
That’s why I’ve taken the time to review and compile a list of the top folding fillet knives available on the market. These knives have been rated based on quality, safety, durability, and customer satisfaction, and are suitable for any budget.
It’s important to note that many of these knives come with extra features like serrated blades, making them even more versatile. I’ve learned the hard way that low-quality folding knives can be difficult to handle and even dangerous, so I hope these reviews will help others make a more informed decision when choosing a folding fillet knife.
I understand that choosing the right folding fillet knife can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available in the market. Therefore, I have compiled a list of high-quality knives that cater to different needs and budgets, ensuring that you don’t have to compromise on quality and performance.
One of my top picks is the Columbia River Knife and Tool Clark Folding Knife. It has excellent durability and performance, making it perfect for filleting fish. Additionally, the Gerber Controller Fillet Knife is a great option for saltwater fishing. When selecting a filleting knife, it’s essential to consider investing in the best fillet gloves for fishing. These gloves provide excellent hand safety and a strong grip.
After reviewing and testing various knives, I am confident in recommending these top-rated fillet knives to you. Along with the knives, I also suggest investing in a good knife sharpener to keep your blades sharp and ready to use at all times.
I cannot emphasize enough the importance of maintaining and caring for your knife. Neglecting to do so can not only make your job harder but also poses a risk of accidental injuries due to a blunt or dirty blade.
To ensure that your knife is properly cleaned, sharpened, and lubricated, it is crucial to read and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. Additionally, it’s essential to set a cleaning schedule that you can stick with.
If your knife doesn’t come with care instructions, then hand soap, a toothbrush, and warm water are your best bet for cleaning. First, thoroughly brush the blade, handle, and scale with soapy water. Rinse it well, ensuring that the insides are clean and dry.
For tougher grime and buildup, soak the knife in warm water for a few minutes before scrubbing it with soapy water. However, it’s important to check if your knife handle is made of natural materials such as wood before doing this, as soaking may damage it.
After cleaning and drying, it’s time to sharpen and lubricate your knife. For pricey knives, use a whetstone, and for cheaper ones, use a knife sharpener. Lastly, ensure to oil the slides, locking surfaces, and pivot.
By regularly maintaining your folding fish knife, you not only extend its lifespan but also ensure that it functions optimally when you need it most.
I can say that choosing the right fishing knife is crucial for a successful fishing trip. When shopping for a fishing knife, it’s important to consider its intended usage. There are four main purposes for fishing knives: filleting, portioning bait, cutting line, and slaughtering fish. If you’re looking to fillet fish, then you’ll want a knife with a flexible, long, and thin blade.
For portioning bait, a bigger and sturdier blade is necessary. For the cutting line, any sharp-edged blade will suffice. If you plan on slaughtering fish, then you’ll need a knife with a hard and solid handle to knock out your catch with one hit.
When it comes to the blade material, you’ll want a good-quality metal that is resistant to rust and easy to sharpen. Carbon steel, stainless steel, and tool steel are the best blade materials for fishing knives. There are different grades for each type of steel, but as long as it is one of those three, you’ll be good to go.
The blade edge is also an important consideration. Most fishing knives will have either a hollow grind or a flat grind. Hollow grind blades are ideal for fillet knives because they are thinner, sharper, and more flexible. Flat grind blades are better for boning because they are fatter, less sharp, and stiffer. Regardless of the type of blade edge, it’s crucial to keep it sharp to ensure it functions optimally.
The coating is another factor to consider when purchasing a fishing knife. A coating on the blade helps resist corrosion and scratches. While there are many different coatings available, it’s not necessary as long as your blade material is of high quality.
Lastly, it’s important to consider the legalities of carrying a fishing knife. In most countries and states, carrying a fishing knife is legal as long as you have a valid reason. However, laws vary from place to place, so make sure to check with your local authorities to avoid any legal trouble.
I found this article very helpful in choosing the right fishing knife. As an avid fisherman, having a good fishing knife is essential for me to easily fillet, portion bait, cut lines, and even slaughter fish. After reading this article, I now know the importance of considering the intended usage of the knife, the blade material, the blade edge, and even the coating.
I particularly appreciate the recommendation for the Bubba Tapered Flex. It seems like a great option with excellent sharpness, corrosion resistance, and sturdiness. Plus, the fact that it can be used for both filleting and boning is definitely a plus.