For those looking for the best fillet knife on the market, the choices have become quite overwhelming. With so many jaw-dropping options to choose from, it’s easy to become flustered and leave the best knife on the table.
With timely and useful information from reliable fillet knife reviews, you can’t go wrong in finding the right fillet knife that suits your purpose.
Here you will find highly recommended fillet knives as well as useful tips and information on what to look for in selecting your fillet knife. You will also learn how to use your fillet knife, as well as get answers to the most frequently asked questions from users.
5 Best Fillet Knife For Catfish: Editor Pick’s
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Whether you are a chef, fisherman, homemaker, or someone who loves using fillet knives, the information provided here will help you. Even if you are using fillet knives for the first time, this information introduces you to this handy and indispensable kitchen accessory.
[toc]Best Fillet Knife For Catfish Review:
1. Rapa la Fish n Fillet Super flex Knife
- Incredible extra thin blade allows the greatest flexibility and control ever.
- PTFE non-stick coating lets fillets effortlessly fall away.
- Razor-sharp handground stainless steel blade features through tang construction.
- Polished brass ferrule.
- Tooled leather sheath.
The Rapa la brand is known for more than forty years as the best fish fillet knife trusted by chefs, fisher folk, and users the world over. Not only is this fillet knife designed with a baked birch handle that is hand-rubbed, but it also comes with a non-stick coating that does not leave harmful residue.
The blade is super flexible and razor-sharp. Trust the Rapa la Fish n Fillet Super flex Knife for its durable stainless-steel blade that cuts through fish and meat like butter.
It also comes with a tooled leather sheath to keep it secure and sharp. You don’t have to stress about keeping your fillet knife sharp as you are also supplied with the Lansky PS-MED01 Blade Medic to sharpen and hone the blade.
Expect nothing less than the best quality filleting experience with the highly recommended Rapal a Fish n Fillet Super flex knife.
Highlighted Features
- Super sharp blade;
- Excellent for various fish and meat. You would need a longer fillet knife to prepare the larger fish;
- Sturdy and durable fillet knife;
- A flexible blade that works well with every type of fish and meat;
- It comes with a sheath and sharpener to protect and sharpen the blade.
2. NK03039-BRK Fish N Fillet
- Each Fish 'n Fillet features a full-tang Swedish stainless steel blade with the classic Rapala reinforced birch varnished handle.
- The genuine leather sheath and single-stage sharpener seal the deal
- making it the "go-to" fillet knife in the fishing world.
Another choice for you is the NK03039-BRK Fish N Fillet Knife. This knife is considered among the best fishing knife offerings on the market. Although Martini knives make it out of Finland, this fillet knife carries the highly respected Rapa la brand.
An essential feature of this fillet knife is its lacquered handle, designed to make it easier to handle with wet fish. It also comes with a high-quality leather sheath with a polymer insert for added protection.
You also get a ceramic sharpener that is the pull-through type with your purchase. While it is not ideal for full-blown sharpening, it is OK for touching up your knife’s edge to prevent it from getting too dull.
That said, the NK03039-BRK Fish N Fillet knife is a handy tool for fishers, chefs, and others who must prepare fillet on any occasion.
Highlighted Features
- Flexible blade;
- Very sharp cuts through any fish or meat;
- Comes with a quality leather sheath and ceramic sharpener
- Lacquered handle for easy use when wet;
- Durable fillet knife.
3. WÜSTHOF Classic 7 Inch Fillet Knife with Leather Sheath
- WÜSTHOF CLASSIC SERIES – 7" Thin Fish Fillet Knife with full tang triple riveted synthetic polypropylene handles that resist fading, discoloration, heat and impact. The WÜSTHOF Classic Series has been our best-selling series for generations
- PRECISION FORGED – WÜSTHOF's Classic Series Knives are forged from a single block of High Carbon Stainless Steel and tempered to 58-degree HRC. The Precision Edge Technology (PEtec) yields a blade that is 20% sharper with twice the edge retention than previous models
- FISH KNIFE – 7" Fillet Knife with Leather Sheath has a very thin flexible blade used for deboning and filleting fish. The long narrow blade enables the knife to move smoothly along the backbone of the fish and easily removes the fish skin
- DURABLE – WÜSTHOF Cutlery is crafted to resist corrosion and dulling. This German made Kitchen Knife set Comes with a limited Lifetime Warranty. WÜSTHOF Classic Series Knives feature a full bolster and finger guard
- CENTURIES OF TRADITION – Family owned for seven generations, WÜSTHOF was founded in Solingen, Germany over 200 years ago. WÜSTHOF’s cutlery carries the Solingen name, a designation reserved for products that meet the strictest quality standards
You can be sure of the finest and most precise cuts of fish and meat with the WÜSTHOF Classic 7 Inch Fillet Knife, Model 4622WS. Expect a very sharp fillet knife that separates the skin and bones from the flesh of any fish.
Any discerning chef or fisherman will appreciate the excellent craftsmanship of this superb tool, which is the best fillet knife for fish.
The extra-flexible blade is skilfully handcrafted for a perfect cut through any meat and fish. The triple-riveted handle is also firm so that your filleting won’t be affected by the handle coming loose.
Along with the fillet knife, you receive a sheath so you can store your knife securely. So, you can’t go wrong with this precision-forged high-carbon knife made by Wusthof.
Highlighted Features
- The 7-inch blade is super thin and flexible, just right for a Fish Fillet Knife;
- The full tang handle is triple-riveted and made of synthetic Polypropylene that does not fade or get discolored;
- This classic Series Knife is forged from a single High Carbon Stainless Steel. With Precision Edge Technology (PEtec) the blade is 20 percent sharper than other blades;
- It comes with a durable leather sheath;
- WÜSTHOF fish fillet knife is made to resist dulling and corrosion;
- It also features a full bolster with finger guard;
- This high quality, German-made knife has a limited Lifetime Warranty.
4. Buck 0220BLS Knives Silver Creek Folding Fillet Fishing Knife
- FOREVER WARRANTY - Since 1902 Buck Knives has offered a lifetime warranty on our knives because we believe in the integrity of our products.FOREVER WARRANTY - Since 1902 Buck Knives has offered a lifetime warranty on our knives because we believe in the integrity of our products.
- RELIABLE AND DURABLE - This folding fillet knife has a titanium coated blade and is designed for added flexibility and corrosion resistance, a rubberized anti-slip grip and a stainless steel safety guard. The convenient size when folded makes this knife convenient to carry on any fishing trip! Length 7 1/4" closed. Imported.
- STRENGTH AND SAFETY - Easy to open with a nail notch on the blade. The lock back mechanism locks the blade open for reliable strength and safety while you work.
How about the Buck 0220BLS Silver Creek Folding Fillet Fishing Knife, which can be considered the best fillet knife for catfish and other fish? With its seven 5/8-inch length, this folding fishing knife is larger than most people expect. It certainly gets the job of filleting fish done thanks to its super thin, and stainless titanium coated flexible blade.
Its blue glass-reinforced Polypropylene and TPE rubberized handle help with getting a firm grip while filleting. You can use this well-designed fillet knife to remove the fish skin from the flesh without making a mess of things. The handle is angled forward, so you have enough pulling power when you fillet your fish and meats.
The Buck 0220BLS Folding Fillet Fishing Knife is easy to control, even when things get wet and slick. Unlike other folding knives, the Buck 0220BLS does not have side play when opened; you can fillet or even de-bone fish with firm strokes without worry that the folding knife will break. Also, the blade is quite sharp down to the tip so, filleting is easy and effective.
Highlighted Features
- Folding fishing knife with a sharp blade that works well to fillet fish;
- Non-slip rubberized handle;
- Securely Locks when opened and unlocks quickly to close;
- Can take reasonable amounts of pressure whenever needed;
- It is well-balanced so that filleting can be done with precision.
5. Bubba 9 Inch Tapered Flex Fillet Knife with Non-Slip Grip Handle
- DIMENSIONS: 15” overall length with 9” blade
- EASE OF USE: Non-Slip Grip handle for outstanding grip security providing ultimate knife control with trigger grip for added security
- RELIABLE: Features safety guards for protection from the blade and spines of fish
- DURABLE: Ideal for detailed precision cutting, a super thin 8Cr13MoV blade allows for effortless maneuvering to easily remove meat without loss, making it the ideal fishing knife
- CONVENIENT: The Ti-Nitride coated, rust resistant blade cuts through scales easily and features an extra sharp tip to make starting your cut a breeze and a sheath with a belt loop for close, hands free carry
If you are into fishing or fish preparation and need a reliable fillet knife, look no further than the Bubba 9 Inch tapered Flex Fillet Knife. The Bubba is among the best fillet knife for saltwater fish (also great for freshwater fish too).
Not only will you have a full tang knife that won’t fall apart on you, but also a non-stick blade coated to make filleting a breeze. The tapered edge gives you added advantage when filleting small and mid-sized fish.
The blade is coated so that it does not rust easily. Also, the edge allows you to make detailed fillet cuts with smooth strokes because it is super sharp. Even if you have a lot of fish to process in a day, this reliable Bubba Blade 9-inch Tapered Flex blade will make light work of this. Amazingly, the Bubba comes sharp out of the box and remains sharp throughout. You don’t need to sharpen it between tasks.
Highlighted Features
- The Bubba Blade Tapered Flex is 15-inches long overall with a 9-inch blade;
- Easy to control thanks to its handle that is non-slip. Added security with trigger grip;
- Comes with safety guards to protect against the blade and fish spines;
- Best for precision cutting wit
- The ultra-thin 8Cr13MoV edge makes it easy to separate meat without losing much;
- The blade is coated with Ti-Nitride to make it more rust resistant;
- Extra sharp tip allows you to begin your cut effortlessly and continue without a hitch;
- This fillet knife comes with a sheath and belt loop so you can keep it secure and carry hands-free.
6. Dexter-Russell S131F-6PCP Boning Knife
- Curved, flexible blade
- Grip-Tex handle for user safety
- Handle sealed around blade to make knife easy to keep clean
- Made of high-carbon steel
- Blade Length: 6"
You might prefer the six-inch Dexter-Russell S131F-6PCP Boning Knife as the best fillet knife for fish. Not only is the blade shape and length perfect for what you need to do, but also it is comfortable to use thanks to its handle design.
Whether you believe your hands are too small for this fillet knife, you can be assured that it is easy to maneuver to get the best results when filleting fish and other meats.
The main downside of the Dexter-Russell S131F-6PCP knife is that it loses its sharpness quite quickly. You would need to have a sharpener or whetstone handy to keep this fillet knife sharp and ready for its tasks. That said, if you rather a lightweight yet reliable fillet knife, then consider the Dexter-Russell S131F-6PCP boning knife.
Highlighted Features
- The curved blade of the Dexter-Russell S131F-6PCP is flexible for filleting;
- This fillet knife is designed with a Grip-Tex handle that is safe to use;
- It is easy for you to clean the handle that is sealed around blade;
- The fillet knife is constructed of high-carbon steel;
- A six-inch blade makes it perfect for small to medium-sized fish.
7. Victorinox Cutlery 7-Inch Fillet Knife
- Dependable, sturdy, easy to carry
- Great for everyday use
- Swiss made precision
- Package Dimensions : 5" L x 2" W x 4" H
You can also get the best experience with the Victorinox Cutlery 7-inch Fillet Knife, which is made for anyone who appreciates the fine art of fish and meat filleting. Not only is the steel that makes up this cutlery among the best for keeping things sanitary, but the handle is designed to minimize the collection of bacteria.
The Victorinox Cutlery 7-inch Fillet Knife is among the best fillet knife options on the market. Even after multiple uses, this reliable fillet knife holds a sharp edge until you sharpen it again.
The handle also does not slip whenever you use it, so; you can fillet with confidence that your knife won’t accidentally hurt you. Also, the Victorinox Cutlery Fillet Knife does not rust easily or come apart from the handle.
Highlighted Features
- You can resharpen the high carbon stainless steel blade to keep it sharp;
- The handle is ergonomically designed to prevent harm to your wrists;
- Durable fillet knife that stands up to daily tasks without deteriorating”
- Handle made of NSF approved polypropylene;
- The Victorinox Fillet Knife has a flexible and straight edge to cut raw meat and to slice fish.
8. DALSTRONG Fillet Knife
- Outstanding craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, stunning design elements, and premium materials. Peak performance has never looked so good at this price. A must have for any butcher or fish monger, expertly handcrafted to handle both the small and large every-day demands of the professional kitchen with precision and efficiency.
- Incredibly razor sharp, full-tang, imported high-carbon German steel with a hand polished edge at 16-18 degrees per side. The narrow blade shape and slightly flexible design allow you to glide smoothly along the contours of bones, effortlessly separating meat without tearing, while the tapered tip maneuvers around smaller bones & cartilage.
- Award winning design, with satisfying heft, premium materials and quality feel. Luxury black G10 Garolite handle is triple-riveted with a grip that ensures comfort and maneuverability. Laminated and polished for a sanitary build, perfect for busy kitchens
- Engineered to perfection at 56+ Rockwell hardness and hand polished to a satin finish. Carefully tapered for improved hardness, flexibility, and minimal slicing resistance. The extra blade length limits wrist and hand fatigue by acting as an extension of the arm, performing long, single slices, on even the largest cuts of meat, effortlessly. National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) certified.
- See why thousands of professional chefs and home cooks love and trust the DALSTRONG DIFFERENCE. 100% SATISFACTION OR MONEY BACK GUARANTEE, try it risk free, we know you'll love it!
Among the best fillet knife for fish and meats, you can use is the Dalstrong Fillet Knife, which is a flexible 7-inch filleting tool in the Gladiator series. This fillet knife is made to ensure that your filleting, de-boning, skinning, de-scaling, butterflying, and trimming tasks are comfortable and more efficient.
Its super-sharp blade makes the act of filleting and de-boning painless and smooth. It is 1.5mm thick from the spine, yet this fillet knife is very flexible so that you can easily maneuver it through flesh and tissue.
You can keep this knife safe in a PerfectFit sheath or a travel case with a belt loop for when you choose to carry it on your boat or dockside on adventures outdoors. Anyone can use this reliable and high-quality tool.
Chefs, whether the executive chef or the ‘chef at home’ find the Dalstrong a perfect substitute to other knives in their kitchens. Expect peak performance from the Dalstrong Fillet Knife that chefs the world over have come to love and trust.
Highlighted Features
- Carefully designed for filleting, de-boning, trimming, skinning, and other tasks in preparing fish and meats for consumption;
- Its flexible blade is 1.5mm thick from the spine
- Very easy to use when cooking fish and meats, works without a hitch;
- Protect the blade with a sheath and a carrying case;
- Made with high-carbon German steel that features hand-polished edge at 14-16 degrees on each side;
- Handle made of black pakkawood and is triple riveted to ensure a good grip, comfort, and maneuverability.
9. Bubba 7 Inch Tapered Flex Fillet Fishing Knife with Non-Slip Grip Handle
- DIMENSIONS: One 7 Inch Tapered Flex Fillet Knife, 13 inch overall length with a 7 inch blade & one 9 Inch Tapered Flex Fillet Knife with 15 inch overall length and a 9 inch blade
- EASE OF USE: Non-Slip Grip handle for outstanding grip security providing ultimate knife control with trigger grip for added security
- RELIABLE: Both knives feature safety guards for protection from the blade and spines of fish
- DURABLE: Ideal for detailed precision cutting, a super thing 8Cr13MoV blade allows for effortless maneuvering to easily remove meat without loss, making it the ideal fishing knife
- CONVENIENT: The Ti-Nitride coated, rust resistant blade cuts through scales easily and features an extra sharp tip to make starting your cut a breeze and a sheath with a belt loop for close, hands free carry
Another superb option for the best fillet knife is the Bubba 7-inch Tapered Flex Fillet Fishing Knife. Made with a textured non-slip grip handle and blade of stainless steel, this fillet knife is just the tool you need for your fish and meal preparation tasks.
Trust the razor-sharp, Teflon coated blade to make filleting and other fish preparation easy and effortless. Whether you are filleting for the first time or you are a pro at this, the Bubba tapered flex fillet knife is the only one you need for clean, smooth cuts.
The handle features a trigger shape so that your grip is firm since it will get sticky when wet. The blade is coated to protect from rust, and it is easy to clean. At 7 inches, the blade is ideal for filleting smaller panfish and meat. Together with a 9-inch flex Bubba knife, you have yourself a filleting knife set to tackle a wider selection of fish.
Highlighted Features
- The Bubba is a 13-inch fillet knife with a 7-inch blade;
- Designed with a non-slip handle that provides a secure grip and control during filleting;
- Comes with safety guards to protect from the blade and fish spines;
- Perfect for precision cutting; Its ultra-thin 8Cr13MoV blade makes the removal of meat more effective;
- Cut through scales with the Ti-Nitride coated, corrosion-resistant blade;
- A very sharp tip makes it easier to start cutting, trimming, or filleting.
10. Victorinox 6.8713.20US1 Swiss Classic Fillet 8″
- Dependable, sturdy, easy to carry
- Great for everyday use
- Swiss made precision
- Package Dimensions : 5" L x 2" W x 4" H
Precision is a feature of the Victorinox 6.8713.20US1 Swiss Classic Fillet knife. It is designed to make filleting and other meat and fish preparation tasks easy to carry out and painless.
No more cramped hands with the well-designed handle and blade of this classic filleting knife. So, from the makers of the Original Swiss Army Knife comes the Victorinox Swiss Classic Fillet knife, regarded as the best fillet knife for saltwater fish and other meats.
Trust this fillet knife on your fishing trips as well as in your kitchen. If you need a set of fillet knives that the pros use but cannot afford the price, turn to Victorinox for your solution.
At eight inches, the blade is ready to skin and fillet fish at any size. Ensure that you keep it sharp for the job. You will also appreciate how flexible the Victorinox is to tackle almost any fish and meat you need to prepare for a variety of meals.
Highlighted Features
- The Victorinox Swiss Classic Fillet Knife is durable and dependable;
- It is also designed to be carried easily without hassle;
- Easy to use and handle for almost all filleting jobs;
- Ideal for the kitchen and great on fishing trips;
- It offers neat and precise cuts on any fish and meat.
11. Rapala Heavy Duty Electric Fillet Knife
- Double the speed
- Three times the power
- Relaxed grip body
- Heavy Duty Motor
- 7 1/2" dishwasher safe reciprocating blades
Rapala Heavy-Duty Electric Fillet Knife is among the offers for the best fillet knife, which is also an electric fillet knife. As an electric knife, the Rapala Heavy Duty Fillet Knife has two times the blade speed and power that is three times greater than standard electric fillet knives. This 7 ½ inch reciprocating style electric fillet knife blade is also safe with dishwashers.
The Rapala fillet knife is also the right size for whatever filleting needs you have, whether large or small fish and meats. It is also comfortable to use, thanks to the handle that allows for a relaxed grip. The eight-inch power cord allows you much reach to work around the standard fillet table.
So, use the Rapala Heavy-Duty Electric Fillet Knife to cut effortlessly, fillet, carve, or slice any fish and meat you need to prepare. You will be impressed with the ergonomic design of the Rapala heavy-duty electric fillet knife. It is also one of the best electric fillet knives on the market.
Highlighted Features
- This fillet knife is constructed of material of the highest quality;
- Electric Fillet knife from Rapala is durable and heavy-duty;
- Uses a motor that is a heavy-duty;
- The blade is seven ½-inches that is safe to use in a dishwasher;
- Rapala electric fillet knife features speed that is twice as fast and power that is three times that of standard electric fillet knives.
12. Victorinox Cutlery 7-Inch Fillet Knife
- Dependable, sturdy, easy to carry
- Great for everyday use
- Swiss made precision
- Package Dimensions : 5" L x 2" W x 4" H
The R H Forschner by Victorinox Fillet Knife can be regarded as the best fillet knife for fish and meats that anyone who handles these products can be proud to use. With its high carbon stainless steel blade cut and fillet any fish and meat precisely and with minimum waste. Handcrafted by skillful craftsmen at Victorinox in Switzerland, these fillet knives are the best in their class.
Without a doubt, one of the best features of the Victorinox fillet knife is the special tempering procedure used to create a blade edge that you can sharpen again and again.
Victorinox handles are designed to be ergonomic to keep your wrists relaxed without tension. Also, the way the Victorinox fillet knife is designed reduces bacteria on the blade and handle.
Furthermore, the Victorinox Cutlery 7-inch Fillet Knife is quite flexible and may bend a little too much if you apply too much force when you fillet, cut, or slice meat and fish. It is also ultra-sharp, durable, and easy to use.
Highlighted Features
- The blade is made with high carbon stainless steel that you can resharpen again and again;
- The handle is ergonomic and comfortable to use;
- Does not deteriorate or wear down – will last for years to come;
- The handle is also made of Polypropylene that is approved by the NSF;
- Useful in cutting and slicing fish and meats with its straight and flexible edge blades.
13. Zwilling J.A. Henckels 31073-183 Zwilling
- Manufactured in Germany
- Special formula high carbon NO STAIN steel
- SIGMAFORGE knife is forged from a single piece of solid steel
- Ice-hardened FRIODUR blade starts sharper, stays sharper longer, and has superior resilience
- Precision-honed blade and laser-controlled edge ensures ideal cutting angle for sharpness and durability
Expect filleting to be an easy and rewarding experience with the popular Zwilling J.A. Henckels 31073-183 fillet knife series. Considered among the best fillet knife on the market, the Zwilling is honed and finished by hand by skillful artisans. Not only is the Zwilling ergonomically designed, but it is also comfortable and safe to use.
The Zwilling’s safety is made possible by its seamless transition from the bolster to its handle. Also, the bolster gives the right balance as it provides a finger guard to make it safe to use. The knives are also made with proprietary special formula steel along with Zwilling’s ice-hardening technique.
The blade is also harder, sharper, and does not stain or break. A Zwilling blade retains its sharp edge for a long time so, you can use it with confidence that it will not fail at a crucial time. Also, the 7-inch precision-forged blade is made from a single piece of steel and is exceptionally balanced, sturdy, and flexible.
Highlighted Features
- The Zwilling J.A. Henckels 31073-183 fillet knife is made of high carbon steel that does not stain;
- This SIGMAFORGE fillet knife is made from single solid steel for consistent quality;
- By ice-hardening the FRIODUR blade, sharpness is retained for longer. The Zwilling fillet knife is also more resilient to the effects of everyday use;
- Very durable and reliable for use on various fish, poultry, and meats;
- The handles are also made with ergonomic Polypropylene that is permanently bonded to allow seam accuracy when filleting.
14. WÜSTHOF Model 4628ws
- WÜSTHOF GOURMET SERIES – 7" Fillet Knife with synthetic polypropylene handles that resist fading, discoloration, heat and impact. Precisely laser-cut stamped knives offer superb quality and value
- RAZOR SHARP – High Carbon Stainless Steel Blades, precisely cut with the latest state of the art technology for incredible sharpness and easy maintenance. WÜSTHOF kitchen knives are Hand Wash Only
- WÜSTHOF FILLET KNIFE – The GOURMET 7" Fillet Knife has a very thin flexible blade used for deboning and filleting fish. The long narrow blade enables the knife to move smoothly along the backbone of the fish and easily removes the fish skin
- DURABLE – WÜSTHOF Cutlery is crafted to resist corrosion and dulling. This German made Kitchen Knife set Comes with a limited Lifetime Warranty
- CENTURIES OF TRADITION – Family owned for seven generations, WÜSTHOF was founded in Solingen, Germany over 200 years ago. WÜSTHOF’s cutlery carries the Solingen name, a designation reserved for products that meet the strictest quality standards
You won’t be disappointed with the WÜSTHOF Model 4628ws Fillet Knife, which is made for any chef, fishmonger, butcher, or householder. With its extra sharp blade, precise filleting is an easy task.
This fillet knife is easy to maneuver as it is made with perfect heft and balance. From the WÜSTHOF brand, expect the best fillet knife for saltwater fish and other fish and meats. The Gourmet series of fillet knives from WÜSTHOF is made with laser-crafted high-carbon stainless steel.
An outstanding feature is a handle made of a very durable material called POM. This material protects the handle from discoloration, fading, impact, and heat. Use the WÜSTHOF to de-bone, clean, and fillet any fish you catch or prepare.
This fillet knife is also useful on meats and poultry to separate the skin from the flesh. You will even notice that the WÜSTHOF Model 4628ws is not as heavy as other fillet knives, but it is more flexible. It comes with a leather sheath so you can protect it and keep it sharp.
Highlighted Features
- This 7-inch Fillet Knife is made with synthetic polypropylene handles that are not easily discolored, faded, or broken;
- Expect precise cuts with the high Carbon Stainless Steel blade of the WÜSTHOF kitchen knife;
- With its ultra-thin blade that is also flexible, this fillet knife de-bones and fillets fish. Use the long narrow blade to remove the skin from any fish and meat;
- WÜSTHOF Cutlery does not rust easily as well as get dull;
- This fillet knife that is made in Germany is provided with a limited Lifetime Warranty.
15. Wusthof 4956 IKON Flexible Fillet Knife
- Made In Solingen, Germany
- Handle Is Made Of African Blackwood, One Of The Hardest Types Of Wood In The World.
- Blade Forged From One Piece Of High Carbon Stainless Steel
- From The Brand: Wusthof
Finally, here is the Wusthof 4956 IKON Flexible Fillet Knife, which is made to meet every cutting need in the kitchen, butchery, or restaurant. Made of a single high-carbon stainless steel, this Ikon Blackwood flexible fillet knife makes filleting fish and meats a painless operation. The six-inch blade is said to be 20 percent sharper than the competition.
Thanks to Wusthof’s Precision Edge Technology (PEtec), the fillet knife retains its cutting sharpness for much longer than the average filleting knife. This and other features make the Wusthof fillet knife the best fillet knife for fish you can ever hope for.
The handle is comfortable to use, thanks to the Grenadill African Blackwood that is also triple riveted to keep it from falling apart. Use the long narrow blade to remove the skin from the bones effectively. The blade is also flexible so that you can maneuver between small bones.
Highlighted Features
- Superior German design and construction;
- African Blackwood handle. This wood is the world’s most hardy and durable wood;
- High-quality Carbon Stainless Steel blade;
- Made by the Wusthof brand, which is one of the most trusted producers of fillet knives.
- Easy to use and maintain.
Buying Guide: Things to Consider When Select Fillet Knife:
Selecting the best fillet knife for the task of preparing fish or meat is something you must do to get the best results. There are various things you need to consider when choosing your fillet knife.
These considerations include the blade, the bolster, and the handle. The question you need to ask yourself is, “Is this the right fillet knife for what I need it to do?” Here are the ways you can check the blade, bolster, and handle to make sure that the fillet knife you select would be the right one for you.
The Blade:
The best fillet knife on the market has a blade that is thin and long. The blade is also flexible, which means it bends easily to accommodate any meat you prepare. Another feature of the fillet knife is the slightly angled edge and the sharp tip. You can tell the difference between a fillet knife and a boning knife.
The fillet knife is flexible instead of stiff like the boning knife. Knowing the difference between a flexible fillet knife blade and the stiff blade of the boning knife reduces the confusion when purchasing the knife that you need.
Check also the material that the blade is made of. The recommended blade is one that is forged from high-carbon stainless steel. It is also suitable for dealing with larger fish. Also, the stamped steel knife is ideal because it is softer and more flexible.
One thing to note, though, is that the fillet knife blade must be sharpened periodically to keep it honed and ready for any job.
The Bolster:
This is the point of transition between the knife’s handle and the blade. On some knives, the bolster includes a finger guard that falls from the handle to the heel of the blade. The bolster with finger guard allows you to hold it securely and steadier.
Japanese knives do not have bolsters with finger guards. You would need to handle such knives with a pinch using the thumb and forefinger.
The Handle:
Finally, check the handle to ensure that it will make it easier for you to use your fillet knife on whatever task you choose. One of the first things to look out for in your fillet knife handle is what is called the full tang. This is the section of the blade that functions as the core of the handle. You can see the full tang running along the center of the handle to the hilt.
Sometimes the full tang is molded into the handle, mainly rubber. In some fillet knives, the center of the handle (or full tang) is replaced with stainless steel handles. A full tang fillet knife is well balanced, reliable, and durable.
Other fillet knives do not carry full-tang handles. Such blades are not as stable, sturdy, and long-lasting as full tang fillet knives. They will break after you used them for a time.
Another thing to consider with fillet knife handles is the material that they are made of. Handles that are made of wood treated with hard resins, for example, the Stamina wood and Pukka wood, or those made molded rubber or recommended options. You might also use fillet knives with handles made of stainless steel and plastic.
Be aware that these handles tend to be slippery when wet and may make filleting fish somewhat tricky. To overcome this problem, some manufacturers design handles in different shapes and textures. You might also prefer the popular rosewood handle. These handles, however, need to be maintained regularly to prevent warping or cracking.
The bottom line in choosing the best fillet knife from among the pack is to carefully check out all its features to ensure that the knife you select will be everything you need in a fillet knife.
Read Further: Best Pocket Knife Made in USA
How to Fillet a Fish:
Knowing how to fillet a fish is a great way to impress in the kitchen. The correct way to fillet fish allows you to harvest as much meat as possible from fish, no matter how small they may be. Here are a few steps to preparing fresh fillets from your fish.
Allow the fish to bleed out (if it is a freshly caught fish): Use your fillet knife or scissors to cut the fish under the gills. Snap its head back to break the spinal cord. Pass a rope or cord through the fish’s gills and allow it to bleed out in the water. Doing this will make the fish taste and feel better.
- Remove the scales: Using the back of your knife, remove the scales from your fish.
- Remove the guts: Using your fillet knife, cut open the fish starting from the tail to the head. Using your hand (wearing gloves), remove the guts and rinse the fish out with cold water.
- Remove the head: Placing the fish on its side, cut off its head where it meets with the gills.
- Remove fins from the top, underside, and sides using your kitchen scissors. This step allows you to fillet the fish quickly and neatly.
- Cut along the spine of the fish: Starting from the bottom of the tail, cut along the backbone of the fish. Use smooth and gentle strokes. Do the same along the rib cage. Turn the fish on the other side and repeat on the other rib cage.
- Debone: Use your de-boning tweezers to remove bones from your fillets.
Frequently Ask Question About Fillet Knife:
#1. What is the best size for a fillet knife?
The best size fillet knife is not a single length as what knife you choose depends on the types of fish or meat you will need it to prepare. Although the fillet knife comes in various lengths such as 4” to 11″, you must have an idea of what fish or meat you will most need to use it for so that you can select the best knife for the job.
Small fish can be prepared with fillet knives that are seven inches or shorter. To prepare bigger fish and meats, you would need to use a longer fillet knife.
So, to prepare small fish like perch, crappie, and bluegills, the best size fillet knife is the 6″ blade. For medium-sized fish like trout or bass, the ideal size is the 7 ½ inch blade fillet knife. Of course, to deal with larger fish like salmon and pike, fillet knives that have 9″ or longer blades are the best options.
If you can afford to buy a set of fillet knives with these different blade lengths, then go ahead. If your budget is tight, however, you may choose the 7 ½ -inch fillet knife that can take care of both small and large fish.
#2. How do I choose a fillet knife?
Choosing a fillet knife is important, especially when you know what you intend to use it for. Many different types of fillet knives have various combinations of handle material and blade length. You can choose a fillet knife with a traditional handle or knives with specially designed handles that make it safer to use.
In choosing your fillet knife, consider the blade. Blades can be 7 inches, 8 inches or 9 inches, and depending on the type of fish or meat you need to prepare, you can choose the best blade length.
Another thing to consider is that the blade is flexible, so it can bend whenever you use it on your meat. You know you are using a good quality fillet knife when it bends but returns to its usual shape quickly.
The best blade length is seven inches if you need to prepare small fish like perch, bluegill, and crappie. It is easier to handle and control a seven-inch fillet knife on these smaller fish. For larger fish and animals, you will need a longer fillet knife.
#3. What is a fillet knife used for?
The fillet knife is a handy tool in the kitchen to remove skin and bones from meats like fish. This knife is similar to a boning knife but is much more flexible. The fillet knife has a very thin and long blade. Typically the blade of the fillet knife is 6 to 11 inches or 15 to 28 cm. You can use the fillet knife to quickly and easily separate the skin from the flesh of fish and other meat.
#4. What is the difference between a fillet knife and a boning knife?
Both fillet and boning knives are special tools you use in the kitchen. The fillet knife is designed to remove bones and skin from the meat of fish and other meat. The blade is very thin and flexible. The boning knife is designed to remove bones from meat. The blade of the boning knife is thin but does not have the same thinness as fillet knives.
Although the boning knife has a thin blade, it is not as flexible as the fillet knife. Another difference between both knives is that the blade of the fillet knife curves up, and the boning knife blade is straight.
#5. How do you sharpen a fillet knife?
You have different options for sharpening your fillet knife. These you can use depending on your situation at the time. The first option is to use a sharpening steel to get your dull knife sharp again. If you are a fisherman at sea, the sharping steel comes in handy. The second option is to use a worktop or countertop sharpener.
This sharpener could be either an electric or a manual one. So, if you are cooking and need to pass your fillet knife through the sharpener quickly, then this is the tool for you.
Using the electric knife sharpener is simple. Pass your knife through the sharpener to get it sharp. After sharpening your knife, you may then hone it with the sharpener. How many passes you need to get your knife to sharpen and honed is up to you. You will know your knife is sharp when you test it. If you are not one to use electric sharpeners, then the whetstone is your best option.
You can control how you sharpen your fillet knife using this manual tool. One thing to note, though, if you are using a whetstone or diamond stone for the first time, test it with cheap knives first. This precaution is to avoid ruining your fillet knife blade if you whet your knife the wrong way. Once you are happy with your whetstone skills, you may then go ahead on your fillet knife.
With the whetstone, slide the cutting edge of your fillet knife over it in the same way you do to slice butter. Make sure that your knife’s back end is positioned just above the sharpening stone. This position makes it easier for you to slide the knife forward to sharpen it.
Final Verdict
Finding the best fillet knife for fish and meat preparation is made easier with reliable reviews and buying guides. Your questions are answered, and useful information is provided to help you wade through all the options on the market.
Whether you are looking for your first fillet knife (or two) or you need to replace your worn-out fillet knife, the best knife is waiting for you. The recommended fillet knives in this collection are among the top-notch filleting knives you can find available today. So, why not give yourself the best filleting tool you can handle for those fish or meat preparation jobs?
Resources:
- https://www.knives-sensei.com/best-fillet-knife-for-catfish/
- https://filletknifeguide.com/best-fish-fillet-knife-reviews/
- https://kayakguru.com/best-fish-fillet-knife/
- https://www.catfish1.com/threads/the-best-filet-knife.96998/