Best Bushcraft Fillet Knife for Outdoor Enthusiasts in 2023

Bushcraft is all about surviving in the wilderness with minimal equipment. One of the essential tools for any bushcrafter is a good fillet knife. A fillet knife is a specialized knife used for filleting fish, which is a critical skill for anyone living off the land. A good fillet knife should be sharp, durable, and easy to handle.

When it comes to bushcraft fillet knives, there are several things to consider. The first thing to consider is the blade’s material, which should be strong enough to withstand heavy use and corrosion-resistant to prevent rust. The blade’s length is also important as it should be long enough to handle larger fish but not so long that it’s difficult to handle.

Another important factor to consider is the handle of the knife. The handle should be comfortable to grip, even when wet, and provide a secure grip to prevent slipping. The size and weight of the handle are also important, as a heavy knife can be tiring to use over extended periods.

After researching and testing several bushcraft fillet knives, we have identified the best options on the market. These knives meet all the criteria for a good bushcraft fillet knife, and we are confident they will serve you well in the wilderness.

Best Bushcraft Fillet Knives

If you’re someone who enjoys spending time in the great outdoors, then you know the importance of having the right tools with you. A bushcraft fillet knife is an essential tool for any outdoor enthusiast who wants to prepare their catch on the spot. These knives are designed to be durable, sharp, and compact, making them perfect for use in the wilderness. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best bushcraft fillet knives on the market to help you find the right one for your needs.

The Cooking Guild Professional Fillet Knife

If you’re looking for a durable and versatile fillet knife that can handle any meat processing task, The Cooking Guild Professional Fillet Knife is the perfect choice.

Pros

• The 7-inch 8Cr14Mov stainless steel blade is extremely sharp and retains its edge well, making it effortless to use for breaking down animals, removing bones, and separating muscles.
• The semi-flexible blade makes it easier to maneuver and ensures that it does not let down in heavy usage.
• The sleek rosewood handle is purposefully shaped to allow a firm and comfortable grip, making it easy to hold, even when wet.

Cons

• The blade may require frequent sharpening if used extensively.
• The knife is relatively heavy compared to other fillet knives.
• The knife may not be suitable for those with smaller hands.

The Cooking Guild Professional Fillet Knife is a formidable filletting knife that boasts a 7-inch blade that is both strong and flexible, providing devastating precision for filleting, boning, trimming, and slicing meat of different animals – giving you perfect fillets every time. The blade is forged in fire to last a lifetime, featuring a 1.88mm thick 8Cr14Mov stainless steel blade, scoring 58HRC on the hardness scale, delivering excellent edge retention, sharpness, corrosion, and wear resistance, making this fish knife a reliable choice for heavy usage.

The knife is versatile and can be used both indoors and outdoors. The Bushcraft fish fillet knife for filleting features a sleek rosewood handle purposefully shaped to allow a firm and comfortable grip, and arrives complete with a reinforced leather sheath, keeping you and your blade safe while traveling.

The Cooking Guild was created out of a passion for the art of knife-making and a love of cooking. The blacksmiths have 20 years of experience in hand-forging bespoke kitchen knives to make chopping, slicing, and preparing ingredients so much more satisfying with screamingly sharp, well-balanced, and high-quality filet knives.

Overall, The Cooking Guild Professional Fillet Knife is an excellent choice for hunters, fishermen, and outdoor enthusiasts who need a durable and versatile fillet knife that can handle any meat processing task with ease.

Bicico Butcher Knife

If you’re looking for a versatile and durable bushcraft fillet knife, the Bicico Butcher Knife is a great option.

Pros

• The 7Cr high carbon stainless steel blade is incredibly sharp and retains its edge well.
• The ergonomic curved wood handle provides a secure grip and is easy to hold and use.
• The knife comes with a unique leather sheath that is both portable and protective.

Cons

• The knife may be a bit bulky for some users.
• The handle may require some sanding and cleaning before use.
• The sheath is not the highest quality and may wear out over time.

This knife is perfect for outdoor activities like camping, hunting, and bushcrafting, as well as for everyday kitchen use. The sharp blade is great for cutting meat, vegetables, and fruit with ease, and the full-tang design and large finger hole provide a firm grip and balance.

The knife is also packaged in an elegant gift box, making it a great gift for friends and family. If you’re looking for a durable and versatile bushcraft fillet knife, the Bicico Butcher Knife is definitely worth considering.

Kershaw Clearwater II Fillet Knife

The Kershaw Clearwater II Fillet Knife is a reliable and affordable option for filleting larger fresh and salt-water fish alike, including tilapia, salmon, snapper, tuna, snapper, carp, eel, bass, catfish and cod.

Pros

• The 9” fixed blade made of 420J2 stainless steel is resistant to corrosion and includes an ABS sheath with belt holster for safe storage.
• The soft textured, co-polymer rubber grip provides a comfortable in-hand feel that won’t slip and neon-green accents make it easy to identify in a marine environment.
• Keep it handy in boats, tackle boxes, trucks, backpacks, on belts or in the kitchen.

Cons

• The softer blade steel is designed to bend without breaking, which may not be suitable for some users who prefer a harder blade for filleting.
• Some reviewers have noted that the knife may not come super sharp out of the box and may require sharpening before use.
• Made in China, which may be a drawback for those who prefer products made in the USA.

Overall, the Kershaw Clearwater II Fillet Knife is a great option for those looking for an affordable and reliable fillet knife for fishing or in the kitchen. The soft textured grip provides a comfortable and secure hold, while the neon-green accents make it easy to spot in a marine environment. However, the softer blade steel may not be suitable for those who prefer a harder blade for filleting and it may require sharpening before use.

KastKing Fillet Knife and Bait Knife

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable fillet knife, the KastKing Fillet Knife and Bait Knife might be the perfect option for you.

Pros

• Razor sharp German stainless-steel blades that maintain their edge longer
• Ultra-thin and flexible blades that are perfect for delicate fish
• Slip-resistant super polymer grips for safety and comfort

Cons

• The sheath could be more durable
• The blade might be too flexible for some users
• The handle might be too small for larger hands

The KastKing Fillet Knife and Bait Knife is a reliable and affordable option for those who are looking for a fillet knife that can handle both fresh and saltwater applications. The razor sharp German stainless-steel blades make cutting baits, filleting fish, and trimming or removing meat and fish from the bone easier than ever before. Plus, the ultra-thin and flexible blades are perfect for delicate fish like crappie, perch, and other small panfish.

The non-slip super polymer grip ensures that you always have a solid grip on your knife, which is essential when working with sharp blades. The handle is also easy to clean and stays looking good longer. Additionally, each knife includes a lightweight and durable sheath to protect the blade and keep you safe in between jobs.

While the sheath could be more durable, the KastKing Fillet Knife and Bait Knife is an excellent choice for those who want an affordable and reliable fillet knife. The blade might be too flexible for some users, but it’s perfect for delicate fish. The handle might be too small for larger hands, but it’s comfortable and slip-resistant. Overall, the KastKing Fillet Knife and Bait Knife is a great option for anyone who wants a reliable and affordable fillet knife.

Hammer Stahl 9-Inch Fillet Knife

If you’re looking for a high-quality fillet knife that is both durable and efficient, the Hammer Stahl 9-Inch Fillet Knife is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The thin, flexible blade makes filleting fish easy and precise.
• The German X50CrMoV15 High Carbon Stainless Steel material is top-quality and provides a superior edge and lasting durability.
• The quad tang design gives the knife exceptional balance, lasting durability, and superior comfort.

Cons

• The knife is relatively heavy, which may not be suitable for some users.
• The price is on the higher side compared to other fillet knives.
• The blade may not be as sharp as some users would prefer.

The Hammer Stahl 9-Inch Fillet Knife is a premium fillet knife that is designed to make filleting fish easy and precise. The thin, flexible blade allows for clean cuts along bones and skin, while the German X50CrMoV15 High Carbon Stainless Steel material provides superior edge retention and lasting durability.

In addition, the quad tang design gives the knife exceptional balance, lasting durability, and superior comfort. The Pakkawood handle is infused with phenolic resin, which combines the beautiful look of wood with the durability of plastic.

However, the knife is relatively heavy, which may not be suitable for some users. The price is also on the higher side compared to other fillet knives. Additionally, the blade may not be as sharp as some users would prefer.

Overall, the Hammer Stahl 9-Inch Fillet Knife is an excellent choice for those who want a high-quality fillet knife that is both durable and efficient.

Bubba Pro Series Lithium-Ion Electric Fillet Knife

If you’re looking for an electric fillet knife that can handle even the toughest fish, the Bubba Pro Series Lithium-Ion Electric Fillet Knife might be just the tool for you.

Pros

• The non-slip grip handle provides excellent control and security, even when your hands are wet.
• The heavy-duty drive system and dual-rivet blade design make this knife incredibly durable.
• The included blades are removable, making it easy to switch between different sizes and styles as needed.

Cons

• The trigger can be a bit difficult to use at first, and may take some getting used to.
• The hard case can be a bit cumbersome to use, especially if you need to switch blades frequently.
• The price point is a bit higher than some other electric fillet knives on the market.

If you’re looking for an electric fillet knife that can handle even the toughest fish, the Bubba Pro Series Lithium-Ion Electric Fillet Knife might be just the tool for you. With a non-slip grip handle, heavy-duty drive system, and dual-rivet blade design, this knife is built to last. Plus, the included blades are removable, making it easy to switch between different sizes and styles as needed.

One of the biggest advantages of the Bubba Pro Series Lithium-Ion Electric Fillet Knife is its non-slip grip handle. Even when your hands are wet, you’ll be able to maintain excellent control and security, thanks to the textured surface of the handle. This makes it easy to fillet even the slipperiest fish with ease.

Another advantage of this knife is its heavy-duty drive system and dual-rivet blade design. These features make the knife incredibly durable, so you can be sure it will last for years to come. Plus, the included blades are removable, making it easy to switch between different sizes and styles as needed.

Of course, there are a few downsides to this knife as well. The trigger can be a bit difficult to use at first, and may take some getting used to. Additionally, the hard case can be a bit cumbersome to use, especially if you need to switch blades frequently. And finally, the price point is a bit higher than some other electric fillet knives on the market.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality electric fillet knife that can handle even the toughest fish, the Bubba Pro Series Lithium-Ion Electric Fillet Knife is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared to pay a bit more for the added durability and convenience.

Old Timer Li-Ion Cordless and 110V Electric Fillet Knives

If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use fillet knife for your fishing trips, the Old Timer Li-Ion Cordless and 110V Electric Fillet Knives is a great choice.

Pros

• The blade made of reliable Stainless Steel and is removable for easy cleaning
• The textured comfort grip provides confident knife control
• The knife can be easily stored in the carrying bag (included)

Cons

• The handle may be too big compared to other electric knives
• The finger button may be hard to pull at first
• The safety lock may take some time to get used to

This fillet knife is a great tool for filleting fish, with a flexible blade that makes it easy to get into tight spaces and remove bones. The textured comfort grip provides a secure grip, even when your hands are wet, and the knife is lightweight and easy to use.

The blade is made of reliable Stainless Steel, which is easy to clean and maintain, and it can be removed from the knife for easy cleaning. The knife also comes with a self-draining carry case, which makes it easy to store and transport.

While the handle may be bigger than other electric knives, it provides a comfortable grip that makes it easy to control the knife. The finger button may be hard to pull at first, but it wears in after a while, and the safety lock provides added security when you’re using the knife.

Overall, the Old Timer Li-Ion Cordless and 110V Electric Fillet Knives is a great choice for fishermen who want a reliable and easy-to-use fillet knife. With its flexible blade, comfortable grip, and easy-to-clean design, it’s a must-have for any fishing trip.

HELLE Knives – Steinbit – Fillet Knife

The HELLE Knives – Steinbit – Fillet Knife is a must-have for anyone who loves fishing and wants to have the best tool to fillet their catch.

Pros

• Handcrafted quality and high-quality materials ensure that this knife is built to last.
• The Sandvik 12C27 blade steel is excellent, allowing for razor sharpness, high hardness, exceptional toughness, and good corrosion resistance.
• The curly birch wood handle is made from natural materials, giving each knife its own unique look.

Cons

• The price may be higher than other fillet knives on the market.
• The handle may not be comfortable for everyone to grip.
• The blade may require frequent sharpening.

This fillet knife is a great investment for anyone who wants a high-quality, durable tool for filleting fish. The handcrafted quality and use of natural materials make this knife stand out from other fillet knives on the market. The Sandvik 12C27 blade steel is top-notch, allowing for a sharp and precise cut every time. The curly birch wood handle is also a nice touch, giving the knife a rustic and natural look.

One downside to this knife is its price. It may be more expensive than other fillet knives on the market, but the quality and durability of this knife make it well worth the investment. Additionally, some users may find the handle uncomfortable to grip, especially if they have larger hands. Finally, the blade may require frequent sharpening to maintain its sharpness.

Overall, the HELLE Knives – Steinbit – Fillet Knife is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a high-quality, durable fillet knife that is built to last. Its unique design and top-notch materials make it stand out from other fillet knives on the market, and its performance is second to none.

Dalstrong Fillet Knife – 6″ – Delta Wolf Series Knife

This is an excellent fillet knife that is perfect for filleting fish and poultry. It is made from high-quality materials and is built to last. If you are looking for a reliable and durable fillet knife, then this is the one for you.

Pros

• The knife is ultra-thin and has zero friction, making it easy to use.
• The high-carbon steel blade is expertly engineered for filleting fish and poultry.
• The handle is rugged and comfortable to hold, even when filleting for long periods of time.

Cons

• The knife is on the expensive side compared to other fillet knives.
• The blade is not as flexible as some other fillet knives on the market.
• The knife may be too sharp for some users, so be careful when using it.

This fillet knife is perfect for those who are serious about their filleting. The high-quality materials and expert engineering make it a reliable and durable choice. The ultra-thin and zero friction blade make filleting a breeze, and the rugged handle is comfortable to hold, even when filleting for long periods of time.

If you are looking for a reliable and durable fillet knife, then this is the one for you. It is perfect for filleting fish and poultry, and the high-carbon steel blade is expertly engineered for this purpose. The handle is also rugged and comfortable to hold, even when filleting for long periods of time.

Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality fillet knife, then the Dalstrong Fillet Knife – 6″ – Delta Wolf Series Knife is definitely worth considering. It may be on the expensive side, but the quality and durability make it a great investment.

Dalstrong Fillet Knife

If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient fillet knife, the Dalstrong Fillet Knife is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Outstanding craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, stunning design elements, and materials
• Incredibly razor sharp, full-tang, imported high-carbon German steel with a hand polished edge at 16-18 degrees per side
• With heft, materials and quality feel. black G10 Garolite handle is triple-riveted with a grip that ensures comfort and maneuverability

Cons

• A little heavier than other fillet knives
• The price point may be a bit high for some
• The handle may be too large for those with smaller hands

This fillet knife is designed to handle both small and large every-day demands of the professional kitchen with precision and efficiency. 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. The black G10 Garolite handle is triple-riveted with a grip that ensures comfort and maneuverability.

The blade is incredibly sharp, made of full-tang, imported high-carbon German steel with a hand polished edge at 16-18 degrees per side. It’s 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.

The Dalstrong Fillet Knife is NSF certified and comes with two sheaths, making it a great option for both professionals and home cooks. While it may be a bit heavier than other fillet knives, the quality and durability of this knife make it worth the investment.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best bushcraft fillet knife, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:

Blade Material

The blade material is an essential factor to consider when choosing a bushcraft fillet knife. The blade should be made of high-quality steel that is durable and corrosion-resistant. Stainless steel and high-carbon steel are excellent choices for bushcraft fillet knives.

Blade Length

Blade length is another critical factor to consider when choosing a bushcraft fillet knife. The length of the blade determines how much fish you can fillet at once. A blade length of 6-9 inches is ideal for most applications.

Blade Thickness

The thickness of the blade is another essential factor to consider when choosing a bushcraft fillet knife. A thicker blade is more durable and can handle tougher fish, but it may be harder to maneuver. A thinner blade is more flexible and easier to use but may not be as durable.

Handle Material

The handle material is another important factor to consider when choosing a bushcraft fillet knife. The handle should be comfortable to grip and provide a secure hold, even when wet. Some popular handle materials include wood, plastic, and rubber.

Sheath

A sheath is an essential accessory for any bushcraft fillet knife. The sheath should be durable, easy to use, and provide adequate protection for the blade. A good sheath should also be easy to attach to your belt or backpack.

In summary, when choosing the best bushcraft fillet knife, look for a high-quality blade made of durable steel, with a blade length of 6-9 inches, a comfortable handle material, and a durable sheath.