Good tools make fishing safer and easier. The right pliers help remove hooks quickly, cut line and handle split shot. Other tools help you land fish, measure them for regulations and care for your gear.
This guide covers the essential fishing tools and what to look for in each.
Fishing Pliers
Fishing pliers are the most important tool for most anglers.
Features to Look For
- Long nose for reaching hooks inside a fish’s mouth
- Line cutters for cutting mono, fluorocarbon and braid
- Split ring tip for changing hooks on lures
- Crimping area for split shot and crimps
- Lanyard or sheath to prevent loss
Materials
- Aluminum: Lightweight and corrosion resistant
- Stainless steel: Durable but heavier and may need care in saltwater
- Coated steel: Budget-friendly with some corrosion protection
For saltwater, choose corrosion-resistant materials and rinse after use.
Braid Cutters
Braided line can be hard to cut. Many pliers have replaceable cutters designed for braid. See monofilament vs. fluorocarbon vs. braid.
Line Clippers
Small clippers are handy for trimming tag ends after tying knots. Some have a hook eye cleaner and knot-tying tool. See how to tie a Palomar knot.
Hook Removers
Hook removers and disgorgers help remove deep hooks, especially from small fish. Some anglers prefer them to pliers for panfish.
Lip Grips
Lip grips hold fish securely by the jaw, useful for fish with teeth or for safely handling fish. Use them carefully and support the fish’s body for larger fish.
Landing Nets
Nets help land fish, especially larger fish or those caught on light line.
- Rubber or coated mesh may be gentler on fish and reduce hook tangling
- Telescoping handles are useful from boats or banks
- Compact nets suit kayaks and wading
Measuring Tools
Many species have size limits. Carry a ruler, tape measure or measuring board. Some boards are designed to keep fish wet and minimize handling. See our fishing license guide.
Scales
Digital or mechanical scales let you weigh fish. Support the fish’s body when weighing and minimize time out of water.
Knives
A fillet knife is necessary if you keep fish to eat. A utility knife is handy for cutting bait and rope. Keep knives sheathed and sharp.
Fish Grippers and Gloves
Gloves protect hands from spines, teeth and hooks. Some anglers use them for cleaning fish.
Hook Sharpeners
Sharp hooks improve hooksets. A small hook file or sharpener keeps points sharp.
Storage and Organization
- Tool belt or holster keeps pliers handy
- Lanyards prevent dropping tools in water
- Tackle bag pockets for tools
See our beginner tackle box.
Safety Tools
- First-aid kit with bandages and antiseptic
- Polarized sunglasses to protect eyes from hooks and see into the water
- Sunscreen and hats
Hook Safety
Hooks can cause injuries. Be careful when casting near others, handling fish and removing hooks. If a hook becomes deeply embedded in a person, seek appropriate medical care.
Caring for Your Tools
- Rinse with fresh water after saltwater use
- Dry thoroughly
- Lubricate pivot points on pliers
- Replace dull cutters
- Store in a dry place
Essential Tool Kit Checklist
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Fishing pliers | Hook removal, split rings, crimping |
| Line clippers | Trimming knots |
| Hook remover | Deep hooks |
| Landing net | Landing fish |
| Measuring tape or board | Size limits |
| Knife | Bait and cleaning |
| Hook sharpener | Sharp hooks |
| First-aid kit | Safety |
Building Your Kit
Start with pliers and clippers. Add a landing net, measuring tool and hook sharpener. Specialty tools like lip grips and scales can come later.
Choosing Tools for Kayak and Boat Fishing
Space is limited on kayaks and small boats, so compact tools work best. Retractable lanyards attached to a life jacket keep pliers and clippers within reach and prevent drops into deep water. Floating tools or foam floats on lanyards add another layer of protection.
On larger boats, a tool holder mounted near the console keeps pliers, a net and a measuring board in predictable places, which speeds up releases.
Budget and Premium Tools
Budget pliers work for occasional freshwater use, but cutters can dull and joints can rust. Premium pliers often have replaceable cutters, better corrosion resistance and tighter tolerances. If you fish often or in saltwater, investing in a quality pair may save money over time. Read the warranty terms before buying.
Teaching Kids Tool Safety
When fishing with kids, show them how to use pliers to hold hooks, keep fingers away from points and pass tools handle-first. Keep knives with adults until kids are ready.
Tools for Releasing Fish
If you practice catch and release, tools that minimize handling help. Long-nose pliers or a hook remover reduce time spent unhooking. A rubber-mesh net reduces slime loss. Wet your hands before touching fish, support larger fish horizontally and return them to the water quickly.
Organizing Tools on a Belt
A wading belt or tool belt keeps pliers, clippers and a small knife in the same place every trip. Consistent placement helps you reach tools quickly while holding a fish.
Replacing Worn Tools
Check cutters and jaws at the start of each season. Dull cutters fray braid and crush mono rather than cutting cleanly. Many quality pliers have replaceable cutter inserts, which are cheaper than buying a new pair.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should fishing pliers have?
A long nose, line cutters and ideally a split ring tip.
Do I need special cutters for braid?
Braid can be hard to cut. Pliers with braid cutters or sharp scissors help.
Are aluminum pliers good for saltwater?
Aluminum resists corrosion and is popular for saltwater.
Do I need a landing net?
Nets help land fish, especially larger fish or those on light line.
How do I care for fishing pliers?
Rinse, dry and lubricate them regularly.
The Bottom Line
Every angler should carry pliers, line clippers and a hook remover, and consider adding a landing net, measuring tool and hook sharpener. Choose corrosion-resistant tools for saltwater, use lanyards to prevent losses and care for tools after each trip.
Editorial note: Lure Ledger is independent and reader-supported. This guide is based on research into manufacturer documentation, published specifications and widely accepted best practices; we have not been paid to mention any product. If we add affiliate links in the future, they will be clearly disclosed per our Affiliate Disclosure.