The term “fishing knives” is a little bit nonspecific, but nonetheless, there are two primary qualities you should look for, which will be explored from a high level here. 

Demystifying the Term Fishing Knives 

First, we need to shed a little light on the term we’re using here in the first place because it could definitely mean different things to different people.

When some use the term “fishing knife” they might be talking about a filet knife, whereas another might be referring to a bait knife.

A filet knife is a specialized knife used for processing fish, specifically for fileting them, hence the name.

On the flipside, a bait knife is a general purpose fishing knife used to cut bait, trim line, and for other basic tasks while on the water. 

With that out of the way, here are two qualities you should seek in fishing knives, one of which is unique to filet knives. 

If It’s a Filet Knife: A Flexible Blade

While it doesn’t matter much if a bait knife has a flexible blade (and in some instances it might even be seen as detrimental) a filet knife with a stiff blade won’t be much use for anything at all.

A filet knife is good at fileting specifically because it has a flexible blade that can accommodate the bones of a fish, flexing around them so that meat can be removed from the rack efficiently and with minimal waste. 

A flexible blade is also more sensitive, allowing the user to feel through the blade where, and how deep in the filet, it actually is. 

Temper, not alloy, is the main driver of flexibility in a filet knife. Whatever you end up settling on, make sure you get one that can do what it’s supposed to do.

Regardless of What Type of Fishing Knife It Is: Corrosion Resistance 

Now, regardless of whether what you’re looking for is a bait knife to be used for general utility or a filet knife that you will specifically use for processing your catch, it benefits you to get a knife with a steel alloy that’s corrosion resistant. 

There are many such alloys that are relatively suitable for this, including but not limited to 440C, 420HC (if made by Buck), 14C28N, S35VN, and MagnaCut, to name just a few. Another good and cheap alloy that is relatively corrosion resistant is 8Cr13MoV. 

The reason corrosion resistance is such a critical factor here is that fishing knives, regardless of whether they are used in fresh or saltwater (although especially if they are used in saltwater) will be chronically exposed to wet conditions. 

Even freshwater will accelerate rust, but naturally saltwater is worse. If you start with an alloy that doesn’t offer a good degree of corrosion resistance, you are asking for trouble. 

Of course, this does not absolve you of the responsibility for properly caring for your fishing knives. Regardless of the model or the steel alloy, you should always clean them meticulously and wipe them dry before storing. The application of a drop or two of food safe oil like tsubaki oil will also prove beneficial as it will insulate the steel and help prevent rust.  

Shop Fishing Knives from the Top Brands 

Regardless of whether you landed here looking for a new filet knife or are in the market for a general purpose bait knife, The Knife Connection has fishing knives for your application, and represents the top brands. Explore top models from White River Knives, Joker and TOPS Knives and more on their website, and if you have any questions about anything before buying, get in touch with them for more information.

For More Information About Karesuando Knives and White River Knives Please Visit: The Knife Connection.