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Best Swiss Army Knife For Fishing

A Swiss Army Knife Is Almost Perfect For EDC. Is It Also The Perfect Fishing Knife?

When it comes to fishing, having the right tools can make all the difference in whether or not you have a successful day out on the water. Now, I love fishing, but I’m not always so lucky actually landing fish. But I definitely love my fishing gear regardless of my fish count. 

Over the years, I have paired down what I carry when I go fishing, and a lot of my fishing is done on hiking trips, so I can’t have a ton of gear with me. That’s where my Swiss Army Knife comes in, a hand multitool that often performs double duty as the perfect EDC tool and often the perfect fishing companion.

I’m not the only one who loves a Swiss Army Knife for fishing; it’s been trusted by anglers for decades. With its compact size and versatility, it’s the perfect tool to have on hand for various tasks while fishing, from cutting line to opening cans of bait. 

However, choosing the best Swiss Army Knife for fishing can be daunting with a wide range of models and features available. I will give you my personal recommendations from actual fishing experience over the years that I think make the best ones for fishing.

My Victorinox Trekker and my personal favorite, the Alox Pioneer

Why Take My Knife Advice?

Unlike many review sites out there, we write our guides and product reviews from actual first-hand accounts. I own, have owned, or handled every Swiss Army Knife listed below, and my recommendations come from the real-world experience of using these knives on actual fishing trips or fishing the lagoons in my neighborhood.

Swiss Army Knives are versatile tools that can be useful for fishing, and several models are particularly well-suited for this purpose. Here are a few of my favorites to consider.

Victorinox Angler:

The Victorinox Angler is a Swiss Army Knife that is designed specifically for fishing. It includes several features that make it a great choice for anglers who want a compact and reliable tool to carry with them on fishing trips.

The Angler features a large blade and a small serrated blade, both of which are made from high-quality stainless steel. It also includes a fish scaler and a hook disgorger, which make it easy to prepare fish for cooking or release.

In addition to these fishing-specific tools, the Angler also includes several other useful features. It has a can opener, bottle opener, and a pair of scissors, as well as a wood saw and a large Phillips screwdriver. It also includes a corkscrew and a reamer, which can come in handy for a variety of tasks on a fishing trip.

The Angler is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry with you on a fishing trip. One of the unique features of the Angler is its ruler, which is printed on the handle. This ruler can be useful for measuring the size of your catch or for measuring the distance between fishing spots.

For me, this one would be my first choice because of the pilers alone. Besides pulling out hooks, a small pair of pliers is mighty versatile.

Victorinox Fisherman: 

Victorinox 1.4733.72 Fisherman Red 91mm A Trusty Fishing Trip Essential in VX Red 3.6 inches
  • A CUT ABOVE THE REST: Compact, agile and ready to face any adventure head-on. Our range of Swiss Army Knives have been established since 1897 and continue to be an icon of utility and smart design.
  • DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Swiss made stainless steel construction encased in our popular scales offers a slimmer profile and is extremely resistant.
  • COMPACT CARRY: Bring this knife with you on your daily adventures without sacrificing space. It makes a great gift for any occasion or stocking stuffer for Christmas.
  • FIT FOR ALL TASKS: At their heart, all our pocket knives are a survival tool; multitaskers that deliver in any situation. At their most evolved they have surpassed basic function to pioneer space travel and restart engines.
  • TRUSTED QUALITY: Made in Switzerland; Victorinox provides a lifetime guarantee against defects in material and workmanship. Making a lifetime commitment has never been so easy. No assembly required, money back guarantee.

As the name suggests, this model is specifically designed for fishing. It includes a fish scaler, hook disgorger, and a long blade for cleaning and filleting fish. It also has a can opener, bottle opener, and several other tools that can come in handy on a fishing trip.

The Fisherman is a famous Swiss Army Knife that is designed specifically for fishing. It is a versatile and reliable tool with several features particularly useful for anglers.

The Fisherman features a large blade and a smaller serrated blade, both of which are made from high-quality stainless steel. It also includes a fish scaler and a hook disgorger, which make it easy to prepare fish for cooking or release.

In addition to these fishing-specific tools, the Fisherman also includes several other useful features. It has a can opener, bottle opener, and a small screwdriver, as well as a larger Phillips screwdriver. It also includes a saw blade and a pair of scissors, which can come in handy for a variety of tasks.

The Fisherman is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry with you on a fishing trip. It also features a comfortable handle that provides a secure grip, even when your hands are wet or slippery.

Victorinox Huntsman: 

Sale
Victorinox Swiss Army Huntsman Pocket Knife (Red)
  • A CUT ABOVE THE REST: Compact, agile and ready to face any adventure head-on. Our range of Swiss Army Knives have been established since 1897 and continue to be an icon of utility and smart design.
  • DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Swiss made stainless steel construction encased in our popular scales offers a slimmer profile and is extremely resistant.
  • COMPACT CARRY: Bring this knife with you on your daily adventures without sacrificing space. It makes a great gift for any occasion or stocking stuffer for Christmas.
  • FIT FOR ALL TASKS: At their heart, all our pocket knives are a survival tool; multitaskers that deliver in any situation. At their most evolved they have surpassed basic function to pioneer space travel and restart engines.
  • TRUSTED QUALITY: Made in Switzerland; Victorinox provides a lifetime guarantee against defects in material and workmanship. Making a lifetime commitment has never been so easy. No assembly required, money back guarantee.

The Victorinox Huntsman has a good selection of basic tools and includes several useful features for fishing. Although it is not specifically designed for fishing, its combination of tools makes it a great option for anglers who want a compact and reliable tool to carry with them on fishing trips.

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The Huntsman features a large blade and a small serrated blade, both of which are made from high-quality stainless steel. It also includes a can opener, bottle opener, and a pair of scissors, as well as a saw blade and a large Phillips screwdriver.

While the Huntsman does not include a fish scaler or hook disgorger like some other Swiss Army Knife models, its scissors can be used to trim fishing line, and its saw blade can be used to cut through small branches or other obstructions that may get in your way while fishing. The large blade is also useful for cleaning and preparing fish, while the serrated blade can be used for cutting through tougher materials.

In addition to these fishing-specific tools, the Huntsman also includes several other features that can be useful on a fishing trip. It has a corkscrew, which can come in handy for opening bottles of wine or other beverages, as well as a reamer and a small screwdriver.

Victorinox Trekker:

Victorinox Swiss Army One-Hand Trekker Lockblade Pocket Knife (Black)
  • A CUT ABOVE THE REST: Compact, agile and ready to face any adventure head-on. Our range of Swiss Army Knives have been established since 1897 and continue to be an icon of utility and smart design.
  • DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Swiss made stainless steel construction encased in our popular scales offers a slimmer profile and is extremely resistant.
  • COMPACT CARRY: Bring this knife with you on your daily adventures without sacrificing space. It makes a great gift for any occasion or stocking stuffer for Christmas.
  • FIT FOR ALL TASKS: At their heart, all our pocket knives are a survival tool; multitaskers that deliver in any situation. At their most evolved they have surpassed basic function to pioneer space travel and restart engines.
  • TRUSTED QUALITY: Made in Switzerland; Victorinox provides a lifetime guarantee against defects in material and workmanship. Making a lifetime commitment has never been so easy. No assembly required, money back guarantee.

I’ve mentioned the Trekker several times over the years and mostly as a great EDC knife, but its blade and tool choices also make it handy for fishing.

The Trekker features a large blade and a small serrated blade, both of which are made from high-quality stainless steel. It also includes a can opener, bottle opener, and a pair of scissors, as well as a wood saw and a large Phillips screwdriver.

While the Trekker does not include a fish scaler or hook disgorger like some other Swiss Army Knife models, its scissors can be used to trim fishing line, and its saw blade can be used to cut through small branches or other obstructions that may get in your way while fishing. The large blade is also useful for cleaning and preparing fish, while the serrated blade can be used for cutting through tougher materials.

In addition to these tools, the Trekker also includes several other features that can be useful on a fishing trip. It has a corkscrew, which can come in handy for opening bottles of wine or other beverages, as well as a reamer and a small screwdriver. The Trekker also has a key ring, which makes it easy to attach to a lanyard or carabiner for easy access while fishing.

One of the best features of the Trekker for fishing is its durability. It features a tough, ergonomic handle that provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when your hands are wet or slippery. It is also designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, making it a reliable tool for fishing trips.

Victorinox Deluxe Tinker:

Victorinox Swiss Army Deluxe Tinker
  • 17 tools include: large/small knives, multipurpose hook, pliers, wire cutter/crimper
  • Stainless-steel tools; rust-proof aluminum alloy separators
  • Durable brass rivets and bushings hold knife layers together
  • Handy and compact tool measures 3-1/2 inches long
  • Made in Switzerland since 1891; lifetime warranty

Many Swiss Army knives and very similar and have almost identical tool sets. The Tinker is one of those Visctoinox knives; it’s pretty close to the Victorinox Handyman but without the large file and a few tools.

While it does not include fishing-specific tools like a fish scaler or a hook disgorger, it includes several features that can be useful for anglers.

The Tinker features a large blade and a small blade, both of which are made from high-quality stainless steel. The large blade can be used for cleaning and preparing fish, while the small blade can be useful for cutting through thinner fishing lines.

In addition to the blades, the Tinker also includes several other useful features. It has a can opener, bottle opener, and a pair of scissors, as well as a large and small screwdriver. It also includes a reamer and a wire stripper, which can come in handy for various tasks on a fishing trip.

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The Tinker has what Victorinox calls a “multiple-purpose hook” this is not a substitute for a real fishing hook remover, but it’s definitely a handy feature that I have used a bunch for stuff like pushing heavy twine into tight spots, etc.

Victorinox Handyman :

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Victorinox Handyman Swiss Army Knife, 24 Function Swiss Made Pocket Knife with Large Blade, Screwdriver, Chisel and Pliers – Red
  • Always be prepared with a Swiss Army Knife produced with exceptional attention to safety, comfort, performance and efficiency
  • Swiss made stainless steel construction encased in our popular scales offers a slimmer profile and is extremely resistant
  • The world’s most know brand for multi-tools and pocket knives
  • Compact and sturdy

The Handyman is a versatile and durable Swiss Army Knife that can be a good choice for fishing in certain situations. The Handyman features a large blade and a small serrated blade, both of which are made from high-quality stainless steel. It also includes a can opener, bottle opener, and a pair of scissors, as well as a wood saw and a metal file.

Besides a bunch of the regular tools, It has a fish scaler and a hook disgorger, which can be useful for preparing fish for cooking or release. It also includes a pair of pliers and a wire cutter, which can be useful for removing hooks or cutting through fishing line.

If you are looking at the Handyman and thinking it is a descendant of the Officer’s Knife, you are a little correct. The Victorinox Handyman is a Swiss Army Knife model that was first introduced in the 1970s as part of the company’s efforts to expand its product line beyond the traditional Officer’s Knife.

While the Handyman shares many features in common with the Officer’s Knife, it also includes several additional tools that make it a more versatile and multi-functional tool. For example, the Handyman includes a saw blade, pliers, and a wire cutter, which were not included on the original Officer’s Knife.

Overall, the Handyman was not designed to replace the Officer’s Knife but rather to offer a more comprehensive and versatile tool for a broader range of outdoor activities. The Handyman has since become a popular choice for hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts, as well as those who want a reliable and versatile tool to carry with them daily. Hence, the Handyman is one of the better choices for a fishing knife.

Victorinox Swiss Tool:

Victorinox Swiss Army Swisstool Spirit Multi-tool Tandem Grey 105 mm
  • The ultimate fusion of functionality, quality and elegance
  • Extremely handy, functional and compact, it is a complete toolbox in a single tool
  • The world’s most know brand for multi-tools and pocket knives
  • All stainless steel construction protects tool from rust or decay

If you looking for the ultimate Victorinox for fishing, then the Swiss Tool might be it! 

The Victorinox Swiss Tool is a multi-functional tool designed for various outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, and fishing. It is a compact toolbox that can fit in your pocket, making it a convenient tool to have on hand when needed.

The Swiss Army Tool includes several useful features, including a large and small blade, a saw blade, a can opener, a bottle opener, a pair of scissors, and a file. It also includes several screwdrivers, a chisel, and a pair of pliers, as well as a wire cutter and wire crimping tool.

One of the unique features of the Swiss Army Tool is its locking mechanism, which ensures that the tools stay securely in place when they are being used. This locking mechanism also makes it easy to access and use the tools with one hand, which can be useful in many outdoor situations.

The most significant benefit of the Swiss Tool is the full-size pliers! The Victorinox Swiss Army Tool can be useful for fishing in several ways. Here are some examples:

Cutting fishing line: The Swiss Army Tool includes several blades that can be used to cut fishing line. The large blade is particularly useful for cutting through thicker lines, while the small serrated blade can be used for cutting through braided lines.

Removing hooks: The pliers included in the Swiss Army Tool can be used to remove hooks from fish. Simply grip the hook with the pliers and twist gently to remove it from the fish.

Preparing bait: The scissors included in the Swiss Army Tool can be used to cut and prepare bait for fishing. They can be particularly useful for cutting soft baits like worms or minnows.

Adjustment to gear: The screwdrivers and pliers included in the Swiss Army Tool can be used to adjust your fishing gear. For example, you could use them to tighten a loose reel handle or adjust the tension on your fishing line.

Victorinox Swiss Army RangerGrip Boatsman

Victorinox Ranger Boatsman MW Grip Swiss Army Knife, 22 Function Swiss Made Pocket Knife with Shackle Opener and Nylon Pouch – Yellow/Black
  • A CUT ABOVE THE REST: Compact, agile and ready to face any adventure head-on. Our range of Swiss Army Knives have been established since 1897 and continue to be an icon of utility and smart design.
  • DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Swiss made stainless steel construction encased in our popular scales offers a slimmer profile and is extremely resistant.
  • COMPACT CARRY: Bring this knife with you on your daily adventures without sacrificing space. It makes a great gift for any occasion or stocking stuffer for Christmas.
  • FIT FOR ALL TASKS: At their heart, all our pocket knives are a survival tool; multitaskers that deliver in any situation. At their most evolved they have surpassed basic function to pioneer space travel and restart engines.
  • TRUSTED QUALITY: Made in Switzerland; Victorinox provides a lifetime guarantee against defects in material and workmanship. Making a lifetime commitment has never been so easy. No assembly required, money back guarantee.

Since we are talking about full-size Swiss Army Tools, I would be remiss if I didn’t include the Boatsman with the EvoGrip.

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Boatsman is a multi-functional tool that is designed for a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing. It is a versatile and reliable tool that includes several features that are particularly well-suited for anglers.

The Boatsman features a large locking blade that is made from high-quality stainless steel. It also includes a serrated edge for cutting through tough materials, as well as a fish scaler and a hook disgorger for preparing fish.

In addition to these fishing-specific tools, the Boatsman also includes several other useful features. It has a can opener, bottle opener, and a pair of scissors, as well as a reamer and a large Phillips screwdriver. It also includes a saw blade and a metal file, which can come in handy for a variety of tasks on a fishing trip.

One of the unique features of the Boatsman is its ergonomic handle, which provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when your hands are wet or slippery. The handle also includes a non-slip rubber insert, which helps to prevent the tool from slipping out of your hand.

The Boatsman is, of course, great for sailors and boating, but it has an awesome set of pliers that are perfect for fishing or other outdoor adventures.

Victorinox EVOGRIP S557

Victorinox Evolution S557 Grip Swiss Army Knife, 21 Function Swiss Made Pocket Knife with Large Blade, Screwdriver and Wire Stripper – Evolution S557 Grip Red/Black
  • The perfect multitasker to strip wire, open cans or fix a screw
  • Swiss made pocket knife with 21 functions and ergonomically designed two-component scales
  • Includes pliers and a wire stripper
  • Contains 13 Implements with 21 Different Functions
  • Ergonomic handles with rubber inlays that improve grip

The Victorinox EVOGRIP S557 is a multi-functional tool that can be a good choice for fishing due to its versatility and durability. Although it is not specifically designed for fishing, it includes several features that can come in handy for anglers.

The EVOGRIP S557 features a large locking blade and a small serrated blade, both of which are made from high-quality stainless steel. It also includes a fish scaler and a hook disgorger, which can be useful for preparing fish.

In addition to these fishing-specific tools, the EVOGRIP S557 also includes several other useful features. It has a can opener, bottle opener, and a pair of scissors, as well as a wood saw and a metal file. It also includes several screwdrivers, a reamer, and a corkscrew, which can come in handy for a variety of tasks on a fishing trip.

One of the unique features of the EVOGRIP S557 is its ergonomic handle, which is designed to provide a comfortable and secure grip, even when your hands are wet or slippery. The handle also includes a non-slip rubber insert, which helps to prevent the tool from slipping out of your hand. I have talked about a few of the EvoGrip models, but this one also includes small pilers AND scissors. You know from my EDC ranting that I like scissors in my daily carry.

Victorinox Swiss Champ: 

Victorinox Swiss Army Multi-Tool, SwissChamp Pocket Knife, Red, 91 mm (1.6795)
  • Features 33 functions to equip you for everyday adventures – including 2.45″ large blade, scissors, bottle opener with large screwdriver, pliers, and corkscrew (See product description for full list of features)
  • Stainless steel construction encased in polished red ABS scales provides sleek durability
  • With 33 functions, the SwissChamp is a toolbox for your pocket that’s ready for everything from household quick fixes to the wilds of nature
  • Length: 3.58″ (91mm), Height: 1.3″, Weight: 6.526 oz.
  • Made in Switzerland; Victorinox provides a lifetime guarantee against defects in material and workmanship

This is one of the most popular and versatile Swiss Army Knives. It is one of the “kitchen sink” Swiss Army Knives with a little bit of everything. It features a large blade, saw blade, can opener, bottle opener, and several other tools that can be useful for fishing, such as a fish scaler and a hook disgorger.

The Honorable Mention: Swiss Classic Filleting Knife

Victorinox Swiss Classic 8-Inch Fillet Knife, with Straight Flexible Blade, Multicolor
  • Premium Kitchen Knife: When it’s time to turn that beautiful fish into fillets, you can count on the Swiss Classic Fillet Knife
  • Innovative Cooking Knife: With its incredibly sharp and flexible blade, this cutting knife gives you the agility and cutting power you need to create perfect fillets every time
  • Ergonomic Culinary Knife: This fillet knife for meat has an ergonomic handle that makes it comfortable to use, even for longer periods of time
  • Kitchen Accessories: Our sharp kitchen knife is a great addition to your culinary toolset, particularly for those who frequently prepare fish dishes
  • Swiss-Made Quality Home Essentials: Since 1884, Victorinox has been expertly crafting kitchen utensils designed for professionals

Now as the title suggests, I am talking about the traditional multitool Swiss Army Knives with multiple blades, ala Macguyver. But, if you want to get technical, Victorinox does offer several classic-style fillet knives.

The Victorinox Swiss Classic Filleting Knife is a high-quality and versatile knife that is specifically designed for filleting fish. It features a flexible and thin blade that is made from high-quality stainless steel, which makes it ideal for removing bones and skin from fish.

The Swiss Classic Filleting Knife has a comfortable and ergonomic handle that is designed to provide a secure and comfortable grip, even when your hands are wet or slippery. This makes handling the knife safely and efficiently when filleting fish easy.

The blade of the Swiss Classic Filleting Knife is flexible and thin, which allows it to easily follow the contours of the fish when removing skin and bones. The sharp blade also allows for precise and clean cuts, which can help to ensure that you get the most meat out of your fish.

The Swiss Classic Filleting Knife is available in sizes ranging from 6 to 8 inches, making it suitable for a wide range of fish sizes. It is also dishwasher safe, which makes it easy to clean and maintain.

Me, shark fishing in Hilton Head, SC last summer, 2022

Aren’t There More Than 10 Swiss Army Knives You Could Have Picked For Fishing?

Yes, I could have gone on and listed another 10 Victorinox. Still, so many of the models have very similar tools or are just slightly different with the handle materials, size, or colors. The above list will give you a great place to start. After all, that’s the whole point of a Swiss Army Knife, a knife that can do it all.

Pros & Cons of Using A Swiss Army Knife For Fishing

Let’s talk about the pros of using a Swiss Army knife for fishing. One of its most significant advantages is its compact design. It’s much easier to carry than a bulky fishing knife, which means you’ll be able to bring it with you wherever you go. 

Additionally, Swiss Army knives generally come with multiple blades, including a serrated edge and a straight edge, making it easy to cut through a variety of materials such as fishing line, rope, and even small branches. The blades are also easy to sharpen, ensuring that they will stay sharp and durable throughout your fishing trips.

Besides multiple blades for fishing, a Swiss Army Knife has a wide array of additional tools it comes with. Along with the traditional blades, most Swiss Army knives have added tools like pliers, scissors, and screwdrivers. These tools can come in handy for a variety of fishing-related tasks, such as removing hooks, untangling fishing lines, and opening cans of bait.

Catching bass in my backyard. I have used the same style of Yakamoto Stick Work for 20+ years!

Of course, as with any tool, there are also some downsides to using a Swiss Army knife for fishing. For starters, they may not be as strong or durable as traditional fishing knives. Although they may be able to handle smaller fish, a large or more difficult catch may require a stronger and sturdier blade.  

This really is the only downside to me; it is just blade length. You’re not fileting a 15lb Redfish with it. Swiss Army knives don’t have the same grip and heft as dedicated fishing knives. This might make filleting or cutting tougher fish a bit more challenging.  Yes, in an emergency, anything is better, but we are not talking about survival situations in this article. 

Furthermore, depending on the Swiss Army knife, it may not have the appropriate level of flexibility required for filleting a fish. Lastly, some Swiss Army knives may not be rust-resistant, which, as we all know, is a potential hazard when using them in or around water.

My original Victorinox Explorer I bought for my brother in 1997

Is A Victorinox Swiss Army Knife Good To Take On A Fishing Trip?

Overall, a Victorinox Swiss Army Knife is an excellent option to take along on a fishing trip. It is lightweight and compact yet versatile enough to handle a wide variety of tasks. The knife has multiple blades, tools, and accessories that can help with any job while out on the water. Additionally, it is made from high-quality materials and designed to withstand the elements. Not only will it last for years, but it also looks great too! 

A word of caution here, however. Most Swiss Army Knives don’t do well in salt water or long periods of exposure to moisture. So be sure to clean and dry your knife when done, and take extra care if you expose it to salty air or water.

Swiss Army knives are known for their versatility, durability, and compact size, which make them an excellent choice for outdoor activities. They are reliable and versatile tools that can be useful for a wide range of tasks, making them an essential item for any outdoor enthusiast.

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