Best Fishing Filet & Bait Knives of 2025

Paul Tilton Avatar
Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Fishing filet and bait knives are essential tools for any angler. These knives are designed to effortlessly and precisely cut through fish and bait, making them a must-have for cleaning and preparing fish for cooking. They come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit different needs, from compact folding knives to larger, fixed-blade models. Many fishing knives are made from high-quality stainless steel, ensuring durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, a good fishing filet and bait knife is an investment that will make your fishing trips more enjoyable and productive.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

KastKing Fishing Fillet & Bait Knives Cover #TOP 1
KastKing Fishing Fillet & Bait Knives
ftb score rating icon 9.9
KastKing Intimidator Bait Knife and Filet Knives Cover #TOP 2
KastKing Intimidator Bait Knife and Filet Knives
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Mossy Oak Fishing Knife Cover #TOP 3
Mossy Oak Fishing Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Fishing Filet & Bait Knives

#TOP 1

KastKing Fishing Fillet & Bait Knives

Speed Demon Pro
D: 9'' fillet knife
FK-9"
KastKing Fishing Fillet & Bait Knives Cover
KastKing Bait Knife and Fillet Knife, Boning and Food Prep Knives, 9 inch Fillet Knife

The KastKing Fishing Fillet & Bait Knives are made of premium G4116 German stainless steel blades that are razor sharp and maintain their edge longer. The non-slip super polymer grip ensures safety and comfort while providing a solid grip. The 5” bait knife has a serrated top edge for quick and easy cutting of frozen bait, while the 6”, 7” & 9” fillet knives have perfect flexibility to follow the natural contours for perfect fillets. The 9” steaking knife is a powerhouse for steaking big game fish. The knives come with a light-weight and durable sheath to protect the blade and keep you safe. These affordable knives are available in various lengths and shapes with total peace of mind warranty against the workmanship and materials for the original owner.

What We Like
Super sharp blade
Great grip
Easy to sharpen
Flexible for filleting
Durable and long-lasting
What We Don't Like
Sheath can be tricky
#TOP 2

KastKing Intimidator Bait Knife and Filet Knives

KTACPCKNF-KNFSP5
E: Combo Kit
KastKing Intimidator Bait Knife and Filet Knives Cover
KastKing Intimidator Bait Knife and Filet Knives, Ultra-Sharp G4116 German Stainless-Steel Blades, Fresh or Saltwater, Non-Slip Handle, Durable Storage Bag, and Honing Rod

KastKing Intimidator Knives are a must-have for any angler. Made with sharp G4116 German Stainless-Steel blades, these knives are perfect for cutting bait, filleting fish, and removing meat from the bone. The 5" knife with a serrated top edge is great for cutting frozen bait fish, while the 7" and 9" filet knives are thinner and more flexible, making precise filleting a breeze. The thermoplastic elastomer grip ensures a comfortable and non-slip handle, while the included durable storage bag provides convenient carrying and storage options. Plus, with the bonus honing rod, you can easily maintain a razor-sharp edge on your knives. Get the KastKing Intimidator Knives and experience the ultimate in cutting precision and convenience.

What We Like
Extremely sharp blades
Comfortable, non-slip handles
Easy to resharpen
Great for fish and meat
Good quality for the price
What We Don't Like
Handles could be improved
Blades may detach easily
#TOP 3

Mossy Oak Fishing Knife

Blue
Mossy Oak Fishing Knife Cover
Mossy Oak Fishing Knife & Bait Knife, 4" Fish Fillet Knife with Protective Sheath, Razor Sharp 5Cr15MoV Stainless Steel Blade, Ergonomic Non-Slip Handle, Fishing Knife for Open Back and Boning

Mossy Oak Fillet Knife is a versatile fishing tool designed for anglers. The razor-sharp 5Cr15MoV stainless steel blade ensures durability and precision for tasks like scaling fish and boning. The long-lasting black PP sheath provides safety and easy carrying, while the ergonomic handle offers a comfortable and non-slip grip, reducing hand fatigue during extended use. This fishing knife makes a perfect gift for fishing enthusiasts, offering a blend of functionality and style.

What We Like
Well made for the price
Excellent grip and comfort
Sturdy materials
Rust resistant and retains sharpness
Great handle design
What We Don't Like
Could be sharper
#TOP 4

KastKing Paradox Fishing Tool Set

Orange
KastKing Paradox Fishing Tool Set Cover
KastKing Paradox Fishing Tool, Complete Fish Clean & Prep Set, 9" Fillet Knife, 9" Multi-Purpose Bait Shears, and 12" Honing Rod, Durable Stainless Steel, with Non-Slip Handles and Custom Sheaths

KastKing Fishing Tool Set includes versatile 9-inch Bait Shears that can be used for descaling, precise cutting, gut hooking, and more, making it a multifunctional tool. The set also features a 9-inch Precision Fillet Knife made with German stainless steel for flexible filleting. An Advanced 12-inch Honing Rod ensures sharp blades for efficient cutting. With Ergonomic Non-Slip Handles, you can have a secure grip even in wet conditions, catering to all your fishing needs.

What We Like
High-quality materials
Sharp and effective knives
Versatile scissors with features
Lightweight and easy to handle
Great value for the price
What We Don't Like
Sheath quality could improve
Scissors may come apart easily
#TOP 5

Rapala 4-Inch Bait Knife

RSB4BX
Multicolor
Rapala 4-Inch Bait Knife Cover
Rapala 4-Inch Bulk Bait Knife

The Rapala Bait Knife is a compact and lightweight tool perfect for all your fishing needs. Made in China, this knife measures 11.684 cm in length, making it easy to handle and store. With a weight of just 0.022 lbs, it won’t weigh you down while you’re out on the water. This knife is designed specifically for filleting and preparing bait, ensuring you can work efficiently. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out, this knife will help you prepare your catch with ease.

What We Like
Very sharp out of the box
Compact and easy to clean
Inexpensive and functional
Good for cutting bait
Comfortable handle with lanyard
What We Don't Like
Rusts after limited use
Not very sharp initially
#TOP 6

FLISSA 5" Fish Fillet Knife

black
5 inch
FLISSA 5" Fish Fillet Knife Cover
FLISSA Fish Fillet Knife, 5" Fishing Knife & Bait Knife with Protective Sheath, Non-Slip Handle, Belt Clip and Razor Sharp 8Cr13MoV Stainless-Steel Blade, Boning Knife for Meat Cutting Butchering

The FLISSA Fillet Knife is designed for both fishing and kitchen use, featuring a 5-inch razor-sharp blade made from premium 8Cr13MoV stainless steel. This lightweight knife is perfect for precise cuts, ensuring you can easily fillet your catch or prepare meat. Its ergonomic handle provides a comfortable grip, allowing you to work for longer periods without hand fatigue. The included protective sheath not only enhances portability but also helps keep the blade dry and sharp, extending its lifespan. With these features, this knife is a reliable companion for all your culinary and outdoor adventures.

What We Like
Super sharp blades
Includes sheath and holster
Great value for money
Durable and comfortable design
Excellent customer service
What We Don't Like
Inconsistent sharpness issues
#TOP 7

KastKing Folding Fillet Knife

KK-KNFOR-65
Orange
6.5" Blade
KastKing Folding Fillet Knife Cover
KastKing Folding Fillet/Fishing/Camping/Hunting Knife, Razor Sharp G4116 German Stainless-Steel Blade, Non-Slip Handles, 13 ½ inch overall Length, only 7 ½ inch folded, Includes Sheath

The KastKing Folding Fillet Knife is a versatile tool that is perfect for fishing, camping, and hunting. Its razor sharp G4116 German Stainless-Steel blades have a non-stick finish, ensuring easy filleting of fish. The corrosion resistant finish improves long term durability, while the non-slip grips provide a comfortable and secure hold. With its compact size and easy storage, this folding fillet knife is convenient to carry in your tackle box or backpack. It also comes with a protective knife sheath for added safety. The KastKing Fillet Knife offers full-size performance in a compact design, making it an essential tool for any outdoor enthusiast.

What We Like
High-quality design
Comfortable ergonomic handle
Sharp and flexible blade
Includes durable carrying pouch
Great value for the price
What We Don't Like
Belt loop on sheath could improve
#TOP 8

Maxam Flex Fillet Fishing Set

SKFISH52
Orange
Maxam Flex Fillet Fishing Set Cover
Flex Fillet Fishing Cutlery Set with Sharpening Steel, Cutting Board and Durable Leymar Handles, 5-peice

The Maxam Fillet Set is an all-in-one solution for anglers looking to efficiently prepare their catch. With three knives, including a 7 1/2 inch and a 6 inch fillet knife, you can make precise cuts with ease. A 5 inch serrated knife handles bones and tough skin effortlessly. The included sharpening steel ensures your blades stay sharp, so you're always ready to fillet. Plus, the compact carrying case makes transporting your tools simple and convenient, allowing you to take the set wherever the fish are biting.

What We Like
Great value for the money
Knives are sharp
Good for fish filleting
Hand sharpener is effective
What We Don't Like
Knives arrived slightly dull
Minor packaging issues
#TOP 9

Pristis 9'' Fishing Fillet Knife

UTA II
Yellowish Orange
Pristis 9'' Fishing Fillet Knife Cover
Pristis 9'' Fishing Filet & Bait Knife, Stainless Steel Teflon Coated Blade, TPR Non-Slip Grip Handle, Fillet Knife for Fishing Hunting Boning Meat Cutting Kitchen, with Sheath and Sharpening Tool

The Pristis Fillet Knife features a durable 5Cr13MoV stainless steel blade that resists corrosion, making it easy to clean after a long day of fishing. Its non-slip grip ensures comfort and safety, allowing you to handle the knife confidently while preparing your catch. Weighing only 0.3 pounds, this knife is lightweight and portable, complete with a belt loop for easy carrying. Additionally, the protective sheath with ventilation helps keep the blade dry and clean, enhancing its longevity and usability during your outdoor adventures.

What We Like
Sharp blade
Easy to use
Non-slip grip
Secure sheath
Lightweight design
What We Don't Like
Plastic sheath
No belt loop
#TOP 10

Gonex G4116 Fish Fillet Knife Set

GXGN2245
Zebra-Black&White
9 inch/22.86cm
Gonex G4116 Fish Fillet Knife Set Cover
Gonex Fish Fillet Knife Fishing Boning Knives, Fishing Gear Tool Set for Meat Cutting, G4116 German Stainless Steel Blade, Non-Slip Handle, Protective Sheath & 2-Stage Sharpener, 9in

The Gonex Fillet Knife Set features a sharp G4116 German stainless steel blade that makes filleting and cutting fish quick and easy. Its Teflon finish enhances corrosion resistance, ensuring durability. The knife is equipped with a non-slip polymer handle, designed for comfort and a secure grip, allowing you to work efficiently in wet or dry conditions. With a sleek design and two available blade lengths, you can choose the perfect size for your needs. Additionally, the included two-stage sharpener keeps your knife in prime condition, making it a reliable tool for all your fishing adventures.

What We Like
Sharp and durable blade
Easy to sharpen
Good grip with gloves
Quality material
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Flimsy construction
Initial dullness
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is special about a fillet knife?

Fillet knives are designed to be flexible, allowing for precise cuts when filleting fish or delicate meats. The flexibility of the blade enables it to easily cut through fish and separate it from the skin, ensuring clean and precise cuts.

2. What are the 2 most common knives used in fish?

The two most common knives used in fish preparation are the fillet knife and the boning knife. Fillet knives are popular for their ability to fillet fish, while boning knives are similar in function and can also be used for filleting and deboning. Additionally, the Japanese-style Deba knife is also commonly used for cutting fish or meat.

3. Do you really need a fillet knife?

Having a fillet knife can greatly enhance your ability to prepare fish with precision and minimize the risk of damaging the delicate flesh. A well-sharpened fillet knife allows for careful scale removal and deboning with surgical precision. While it can also be useful for thin cuts of meat, its primary purpose is for filleting fish.

4. Is a straight or curved fillet knife better?

Both straight and curved fillet knives serve different purposes. Curved fillet knives are commonly used for separating skin and bones from the flesh, making them ideal for delicate meats like fish. Straight blades, on the other hand, are better suited for detaching larger chunks of meat, such as beef. The choice between straight and curved depends on the specific task at hand.

Editor's Notes

During our fishing filet & bait knives research, we found 24 fishing filet & bait knives products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 55,689 customer reviews through our big data system to write the fishing filet & bait knives list. We found that most customers choose fishing filet & bait knives with an average price of $17.25.

The fishing filet & bait knives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of fishing filet & bait knives, including KastKing, Mossy Oak, Rapala, FLISSA, Maxam. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 826 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Paul Tilton Avatar

Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.

Fishing Filet & Bait Knives Comparison Table

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Brand KastKing KastKing Mossy Oak KastKing Rapala FLISSA KastKing Maxam Pristis Gonex
Color D: 9'' fillet knife E: Combo Kit Blue Orange Multicolor black Orange Orange Yellowish Orange Zebra-Black&White
Blade Material Stainless Steel Stainless Steel 5Cr15mov blade G4116 German stainless steel Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Alloy Steel 5Cr13MoV stainless steel Stainless Steel
Handle Material Stainless Steel Slip-Resistant PP+TPR Rubber Plastic Stainless Steel Rubber - Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE), Rubber Golf-Style Rubber
Recommended Uses For Product Fishing and Food Preparation Fishing Fishing Fishing, Outdoors - Hunting, Fishing, Camping Camping - Hunting, Kitchen, Carving, Fishing, Boning Outdoor Fisherman, Indoor Cook
Special Feature Non-slip Non Slip Lightweight, Non Slip Fishing - Ergonomic Handle Folding,Lightweight - Stain Resistant, Non Slip, Rust Resistant Sharp, Multipurpose
Style Modern Modern Modern 9" Fillet Knife - Modern Compact - Modern Modern
Blade Length 9 Inches 9 Inches 4 Inches 9 Inches - 5 Inches 6.5 Inches - 9 Inches 9 Inches
Item Weight - 2.23 Pounds 0.35 Pounds 1.52 pounds - 4.59 Ounces 8.1 Ounces 1.85 Pounds 4.8 ounces 8.82 ounces
Blade Edge - Asymmetrical Flat Plain Serrated Flat - Serrated Single Bevel Plain
Item Length - 16.61 Inches 8.5 Inches 16.53 Inches - 11 Inches 7.5 Inches 19.05 Centimeters 14.8 Inches 15 Inches
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
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