We use affiliate links and when a purchase is made we may receive a small commission. Read more about us.
Having the right gear can make all the difference when you’re fishing. That’s why it’s essential to have the best fishing pliers with you depending on the type of fishing you do. This blog post will discuss what fishing pliers are, why you should always have them with you, and how much they cost. We’ll also look at some of the different materials they are made from. So if you’re looking for a new set of pliers for your next fishing trip, be sure to read on!
Why are fishing pliers necessary?
Fishing pliers are a vital piece of gear for any fisherman. They can be used for various tasks, such as removing hooks from fish, cutting lines, and more.
Having a good pair of fishing pliers makes fishing easier regardless if you are fishing from land or a boat. Those of us that crimp, use split rings to change hooks, and to cut different lines will need the right tools to get the job done easier. The best fishing pliers handle all of this and more.
There are different types of pliers for fishing on the market, made from various materials. The most common type of fishing plier is made from stainless steel.
Other popular materials include aluminum, titanium, and even plastic.
Material Titanium Size: 5.5″ 6.5, 7.5″ What we like: We love how this pliers hold up to both salt and freshwater because of the titanium build. It also makes this pliers extremely lightweight with the ability to cut mono, braid, and even light wire. What we don’t: Belt loop on sheath could be larger and may not fit on wading belt buckles.
If you’re looking for a good set of fishing pliers, we highly recommend the Premio Danco Titanium Pliers. These pliers are made from titanium, a solid and durable material that will stand up to all conditions.
The Premio Danco Titanium Pliers are also available in two sizes (6.5″ and 7.5″ sizes) to choose the ones that are right for you.
These pliers are very affordable, making them an excellent option for budget-conscious shoppers who want titanium pliers at a price that is not as steep as some other models.
We love these pliers also come with replaceable Cobalt-Titanium side cutters that can cut monofilament and braid easily.
You know you will need to replace the side cutters from time to time for those who fish a lot, so this is an easy way to keep the pliers cutting easy. | Both lightweight and long-lasting, these pliers come with an elastic cord lanyard and a leather-grade sheath for easy hip placement.
Material Titanium Size: 6″ & 7″ What we like: Extremely well built, lightweight titanium pliers that will last for years with the proper care even when used in saltwater. What we don’t: They are very expensive
Made of aircraft-grade titanium, the Van Staal Titanium pliers are built to last a lifetime. They’re also twice as strong as stainless steel, making them perfect for saltwater fishing.
Titanium is also corrosion-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about rust or other damage from saltwater. They come in both a 6″ and 7″ that includes a coil lanyard and leather belt pouch to hold the pliers in.
These particular pliers use a spring always to prop them open, and these spring-loaded handles are extremely well concealed to keep them from getting any salt or other materials in them.
The cutters are tungsten and can easily cut mono, braid, and even wire. In addition, the tungsten cutters are easily replaceable.
These pliers can easily last you ten years or more with the proper care. They are some of the best pliers on the market, but they will cost you.
Material: Stainless Steel Size: 8.6 What we like: Cost effective pliers that will work great for freshwater fishing and for those that do not want to spend a large amount of money on Titanium pliers. Has the ability to open up a split ring if needed. What we don’t: Heavier than other pliers and cannot change out cutters when they dull. No sheath for holding the pliers.
Longer and skinner to get into fish mouth deeper if need be
Cons
No sheath or lanyard
Spring falls out in the middle of the pliers per some reviews
The Rapala stainless steel pliers are an excellent option for those that want more cost-effective pliers for fresh water. These pliers are strong, thin, and long enough to get into a fish’s mouth to remove hooks with ease.
These pliers have a soft-grip handle and slip-proof grips that ease squeezing down. In addition, these pliers feature a side cutter, tuning tool, split shot crimper, and split ring tool for most freshwater applications.
While these pliers are not in the same class as the titanium pliers listed above, they are a cost-effective purchase for beginners or those that need a second pair of pliers in your bag or boat.
Material: Stainless Steel Size: 6″ What we like: Lightweight and thin with a hook eye cleaner make removing small fly’s and other baits. We also like the oversized finger loops. What we don’t: Very specific tool made for fly-fishing only.
If you are looking for the best fishing forceps/pliers, look no further than Umpqua Rivergrip Scissors Forceps. These pliers are made of stainless steel, which makes them incredibly durable.
They also come in various sizes so you can choose the perfect pair for your needs. These scissor clamps can easily cut mono, nylon, and even tiny branches.
In addition, these forceps are thin, allowing for even small flies and baits to be removed from delicate fish mouths or even when the fly is down the throat of a fish.
Material: Stainless Steel, Carbide, Rubber Size: 7″ Split ring nose What we like: Comfortable and cost effective beginner pliers that offer good cutting, strength and comes with sheath and lanyard. What we don’t: Cutting braid can be difficult as you keep using the cutters.
KastKing Cutthroat titanium fishing pliers are the perfect size for saltwater fishing. They are made of stainless steel and have a black finish that is corrosion-resistant 420 Stainless steel and coated with Teflon coasting. The side-mounted cutters also make it easy to cut lines.
Those that are looking for a multifunction jaw will like these pliers. Easily open split rings, crimp small split shots and even pull hooks to make sure knots are secure. The tungsten carbide cutters can be changed out when needed.
We love the rubber handle, an ergonomic rubber handle that provides a comfortable grip.
These pliers come with both a lanyard and sheath for easy carrying. Those looking for a cost effective set of pliers will like what KastKing has to offer
Material: N/A Size: 8.5″ What we like: Long nose for toothy fish. Comes with both lanyard and sheath. What we don’t: Cutting can dull the cutters quicker than some other pliers.
Cutters may dull quicker when cutting heavier lines and leader
Dr. Slick Barracuda pliers are long at 8.5″ and are great for release hooks that are in toothy mouths like kingfish, barracuda and other fish that have a bite.
These pliers come with both the lanyard and sheath making it easy to carry with you regardless of the fishing situation. The foam handle is comfortable but may break down overtime.
These needle nose pliers are great for those that want a heavy-duty pliers that can reach inside deeper places to remove hooks.
Titanium Titanium pliers are the best you can buy. They’re strong, durable, and corrosion-resistant. But they are also expensive. So if you are someone that fishes in saltwater, Titanium is your go-to material for pliers.
They will last you a very long time with proper care. Titanium is also much lighter than stainless steel pliers and won’t weigh you down.
Stainless steel fishing pliers If you don’t want to spend the money on Titanium, then stainless steel is the next best thing. Stainless steel is still strong and durable, but it’s not as corrosion-resistant as Titanium.
These will also last you many years with proper care, and if you strictly fish in freshwater, you should have huge issues with corrosion as long as you properly take care of your gear. Stainless steel fishing pliers are strong but are heavier then your titanium pliers.
Length
The length of your fishing pliers is essential for a few reasons. First, you want to ensure the pliers can reach within a fish’s mouth to get hooks out.
Thinner, more extended pliers may be more beneficial for flyfishermen that catch smaller trout and fish that require a longer, thinner plier.
Most fishing pliers range from six to seven inches in length. You can also find shorter or longer pliers, but those are typically designed for specific purposes.
Cutting ability
Removing hooks and cutting lines are the main reasons we wear pliers fishing. The ability to cut monofilament lines is one thing; cutting braid is another.
Thin braid can be challenging to cut, and having the proper pliers is essential to get a clean cut without ripping apart fibbers, making it difficult to thread the eyes of smaller hooks.
Look for pliers that offer a way to replace cutters when they need to be. The more expensive models allow for this, and it’s a great way to keep cutters new and at their best.
Price
Pricing is also an important consideration. Some of the best fishing pliers are made from high-quality materials and can be pretty expensive. These will be your titanium saltwater fishing pliers.
However, there are also some great budget-friendly options available as well. When choosing the best fishing pliers for your needs, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the type of fishing you’ll be doing.
For example, if you’re targeting smaller fish, pliers with smaller jaws may be better. Conversely, if you’re going after larger fish, pliers with larger jaws may be better.
Finally, if you exclusively fish in salt, we recommend spending the extra money on titanium pliers that can withstand salt conditions. These are some of the best saltwater fishing pliers because they can withstand the punishment of salt.
Another important consideration is the material that the pliers are made from. Stainless steel is a popular option, but titanium is also quite durable.
There are also some pliers made from other materials, so be sure to do your research to find the best option. These factors will determine how expensive or not the pliers will be.
Sheath and lanyards
Some pliers come with a sheath and lanyard, while others do not. If they do not, you will need to purchase those separately. These are a must so you can have your pliers on you.
Looks for pliers that offer these together in the purchase. Both high-end and cost-effective models include these in the purchase price, and they are a must, in our opinion.
Split ring pliers
Not every fishing plier will come with a split ring tool, but it is a nice feature, especially for those who lure fish a lot and want to change out hooks in a split ring. Split ring pliers will have a small curve at the tip that is used to pry open the split ring making it easier to remove or change out hooks.
Those who have tried to open a split ring can tell you it is not the easiest thing to do. Having a split ring on your fishing pliers makes this task easier and quicker.
Common questions and answers
Do you need pliers when fishing? You do not need pliers to fish, but we can tell you from experience having a good pair of fishing pliers on you when you do makes rigging, removing hooked fish, and cutting lines just way easier. Pliers are something every fisherman should have on them when they fish.
Can I use regular pliers for fishing? You can but they are not designed for fishing in many ways. They do not have line cutters. they are not built to take on saltwater conditions, and they are not designed to reach into a fishes mouth to remove hooks properly. There are many cost effective fishing pliers on the market to get started with. We recommend you go this route.
Final thoughts
Remember, when choosing the best fishing pliers for your needs, it’s essential to consider the type of fishing you’ll be doing, the material the pliers are made from, and the size of the pliers. With so many great options available on the market today, you’re sure to find a pair of fishing pliers that fit your budget and meet all your requirements.
Can fish see green braided line? We fish light mono each year in clear water for beach snook each year with great success. We site fish…
How to string a fishing pole? If you are a beginner fisherman, one of the most important things you need to learn is how to string…
Saltwater Fishing for Beginners Saltwater fishing typically gets transitioned by a fisherman after fishing in freshwater lakes and rivers. But not always. Beginner anglers…
How to hook bread for surface fishing Bread can be very effective for catching certain types of fish like sunfish, shiners, and carp. When using bread there…
