The Ultimate Guide to Fishing Knives: Types, Uses, and Fishing Knife Maintenance

The Ultimate Guide to Fishing Knives: Types, Uses, and Fishing Knife Maintenance

Jun 05, 2025
By Smith's

Fishing Knifes - Fillet Knife for Fishing

Types, Uses, and Maintenance

The Short Answer: When you're out on the water, having the right fishing knife can make all the difference. Whether you're slicing bait, filleting your catch, or cutting line, the right tool enhances both performance and enjoyment. At Smith's Products, we offer an expertly curated selection of fishing knives built for durability, sharpness, and ease of use.

In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of fishing knives, how to choose the best one for your needs, and how to properly care for it so it remains a reliable companion on every fishing adventure.

Understanding Fishing Knives

Fishing knives are essential tools for any angler, no matter your skill level. From filleting your catch to prepping bait and cutting through tough materials, these knives are engineered for precision and control.

Key Features of Fishing Knives:

  • Sharp, flexible blades for clean, accurate cuts

  • Ergonomic handles for comfortable grip and control

  • Rust-resistant materials like stainless steel, designed for harsh environments

There are several types of fishing knives tailored to different tasks:

  • Fillet Knives: These feature thin, flexible blades that make it easy to remove skin and bones with precision.

    Smith's 9" Stainless Fillet Knife
    Features a razor-sharp 420 series stainless steel blade with a non-slip TPE soft grip ergonomic handle and a breathable protective sheath. Ideal for filleting large catches. 

  • Bait Knives: Often sturdier with serrated edges, these are ideal for cutting through tougher materials like bait, rope, and scales.

    Smith's 3.25" Bait Knife
    Features a razor-sharp corrosion-resistant 3Cr13 stainless steel blade and a non-slip ergonomic handle. Perfect for cutting bait with ease. 

At Smith's Products, our fishing knives are crafted with high-quality materials and thoughtful design to ensure they perform exceptionally—trip after trip.

Choosing the Right Fishing Knife

Choosing the right knife depends on your fishing style, the species you target, and the environments you frequent.

Consider the Following:

  • Fish Type: Larger fish require longer, more rigid blades, while smaller species are best handled with short, flexible knives.

  • Blade Material:

    • Stainless Steel: Highly resistant to corrosion, especially in saltwater conditions

    • High-Carbon Steel: Holds a sharper edge and is easier to sharpen but needs more care

    • Titanium or Coated Blades: Ideal for saltwater fishing due to enhanced corrosion resistance

Whether you're fishing in freshwater lakes or saltwater bays, Smith’s offers a diverse lineup of fishing knives to suit your every need.

Caring for Your Fishing Knife

A quality knife is an investment—and like any tool, proper care is key to performance and longevity.

After Each Use:

  • Rinse in fresh water to remove salt, sand, and debris.

  • Wash with mild soap and a soft sponge.

  • Dry thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth to prevent corrosion.

Sharpening Tips:

  • Use a whetstone or quality knife sharpener to maintain a razor-sharp edge.

  • Follow the recommended sharpening angle—typically 20° for fishing knives.

  • Sharpen regularly to ensure clean cuts and reduce strain on your hands.

Storage:

  • Store in a protective sheath or knife roll to avoid dulling and moisture damage.

  • Keep knives dry and out of damp environments to prevent rust—especially with high-carbon steel blades.

With proper care, your Smith’s fishing knife will remain sharp, safe, and ready to perform—trip after trip.

Ready to Upgrade Your Fishing Knife?

Explore the full range of fishing knives at Smith's Products, and find the tool that’s right for your next adventure. Whether you're filleting a trophy catch or prepping bait on the fly, we’ve got the sharp, reliable gear you need

!