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A fillet knife is often one of the most overlooked kitchen tools ever. Most of the time, people just keep using a chef knife to fulfill their filleting needs, whereas, in reality, a fillet knife will help make your cooking experience a lot easier compared to a regular chef knife.
Fillet knives are specifically designed to provide you with control when cleaning fish. They allow you to separate the meat from the bone and skin easily. However, there’s a catch. Finding the perfect model can get very difficult, mostly because the market is filled with many options for you to choose from.
In this article, we’ve mentioned some of the most sought-out filleting knives for you to go through. With all the variety of options available, you are bound to find an option that suits your requirements. So keep reading to find out more!
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Fillet Knife
- OUR TOP PICK: Mercer Culinary Millennia
- RUNNER-UP: American Angler PRO
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Morakniv Fishing Comfort Fillet Knife
Comparison of the Best Fillet Knives
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What is a Fillet Knife?
A fillet is basically a boneless piece of fish, meat, and chicken that is used to make steaks, minced meat, and other variety of dishes. In order to prepare these fillets, the meat is separated from bones and skin using a special knife known as a fillet knife.
This is a long and flexible knife that allows one to cut fillets across the meat and the bones and thinly remove the skin from them. It features a thin blade with narrow ends to evenly cut the meat around the bones. Plus, you can easily maneuver it in difficult, tight spaces.
The blade is so thin that it allows you to remove the skin from the meat while ensuring that none of it is wasted. A fillet knife can also be used for other varieties of meat. Whether you’re a professional culinary chef or a house chef, it is a must-have for all kitchens.
What Should I Look For When Buying a Fillet Knife?
If you’re looking to purchase a fillet knife, you’ll find a plethora of options on the market. However, choosing one can be a bit difficult, especially when you don't know what to look for in the first place. Here are some important factors that you need to take into consideration before you make a purchase:
Handle
It is important that your fillet knife feels comfortable in your hands to make it easy to use. Knives that feature an ergonomic handle not only provide you with comfort and balance but also help avoid overexertion. This means that you can use them for long hours without feeling any sort of hand or wrist fatigue.
Knife handles are usually available in three different materials: wood, laminate, and plastic. While wood handles are a durable option, they tend to hold onto bacteria quite a bit. Laminate handles, on the other hand, are easier to look after and are durable as well. Plastic handles provide you with comfort, but they are not suitable for use in extreme heat.
Flexibility
Since you are going to be using the knife for filleting, you need one that is flexible and won’t break. A flexible knife makes it easier to maneuver around the bones and other difficult areas without facing any hassle.
Blade Length
Although the blade length is a matter of personal preference, there are a few things that you need to take into consideration. Blades are available in various different lengths, and each length is more suitable for a particular type and size of fish.
Therefore the right blade length depends on the type and size of fish you are dealing with. Blades are classified into three different categories: short, medium, and long.
Grip
You must take the grip into consideration. It is essential that the knife that you choose fits properly in your hands. The right fit helps to enhance your work efficiency and makes your meal prep a lot more pleasant. Moreover, it helps to reduce the chances of accidents or injuries.
Blade Material
You need to take the blade material into consideration as well before you make your purchase. You can choose between ceramic, stainless steel options, forged, carbon steel, and high carbon stainless steel. See which material is more suitable for your needs before deciding on one.
Willy's Top Picks - Best Fillet Knives
Here are the best fillet knives:
Review of the Best Fillet Knives
Fillet knives are a must-have for every kitchen, and the market is filled with various different options for you to choose from. So which option should you opt for?
This mostly depends on personal preference and the type and size of fish or meat you are working with. Here are a bunch of different options available for you to consider before you make your final purchase.
Best Overall:
Mercer Culinary Millennia
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Mercer users prefer this knife for a number of reasons, mainly because of how sharp it is. It features a super sharp and thin blade that requires you to barely apply any pressure. The construction is also very stable and durable, and it will last a long time. You are required to sharpen it occasionally; otherwise, it maintains a good edge.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The M23860 Millennia is one of Mercer’s most sought-out filleting knives. It is made using premium-quality material. It features a unique design that makes it very durable.
The M23860 is a great option for both professional chefs and food enthusiasts alike. It features a super sharp, flexible blade that allows you to cut, slice, and fillet while applying minimum pressure. The blade is made from Japanese steel, which helps prevent it from rusting and corroding.
The unit also features an ergonomic handle made of Santoprene and polypropylene, which offers both comfort and stability. It also features textured finger points that help provide a slip-resistant grip. Meanwhile, the safety finger guard helps ensure a safe and quick filleting experience. This fillet knife is definitely worth the hype.
Bottom Line
This Mercer Fillet knife is a comfortable kitchen tool that every kitchen should be equipped with. It is very stable, and is made using durable material and will last you a long period.
Moreover, it provides a slip-resistant grip while the safety finger guard makes it an even safer option. If you are thinking of investing in a good fillet knife, then the Mercer Culinary Millennia is one that you might want to check out.
Runner-up:
American Angler PRO
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
According to most users, this knife is a great option. It has a lot of power compared to many other filleting knives. It is very easy to use and makes the entire process very pleasant. You can remove the skin quickly without having to put in much effort. An additional bonus is that you can use other blades with this knife as well.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The American Angler PRO is an electric knife. It allows you to handle large amounts of fish at once without having to exert too much power. It features a high-performance motor that runs with twice the torque power compared to other electric knives, allowing it to go through big bones easily.
This knife also features an advanced airflow design that keeps the handle cool while you work for long hours. The handset is compatible with every other American Angler replacement blade, which means that you can use this particular knife for different types and sizes of fish.
It even comes with a protective hard casing and is slightly water-resistant to prevent the working parts from getting damaged due to unwanted fluids.
Bottom Line
Summing it all up, this unit would make your filleting experience a lot easier and quicker. It features a built-in cooler that allows you to use it without it overheating. You can change blades, which gives you an edge as you can use it for different types and sizes of fishes.
Best for the Money:
Morakniv Fishing Comfort Fillet Knife
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers prefer this knife and think it is a good option. The blade is razor-sharp and features the perfect amount of flex. It can hold an edge for a long time. You can use this knife for different tasks. The grip is nice and tactile while you’re filleting. Users state that it is a durable option that gets the job done well enough.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This Morakniv fillet knife is a lightweight option that allows you to easily cut through fish bones and gives you the perfect piece of meat. It was designed especially for fishermen who have to prune a number of fish every day.
It is available in two different models; the longer blade is perfect for filleting, whereas the smaller one is more suitable for removing bones. The blade that this knife features is extremely sharp, and is made using Sandvik hardcore 12C27 stainless steel. It offers great performance and can be used for a number of different tasks, including dicing veggies, herbs, and fruits, cutting raw meat, filleting and deboning.
Bottom Line
Morakniv has left us quite impressed with this model. It offers a sharp stainless steel blade that is available in two different lengths. The blade is both durable and corrosion-resistant. It features a high friction handle, which helps ensure that it offers a secure and steady grip. Moreover, it is non-odor absorbing. It is a comfortable option and will last you a long time.
Best Fillet Knife For Salmon:
Kershaw 1259X
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This knife is a favorite of many as it allows the user to fillet and skin fish easily. The handle makes it very comfortable to use. It is made using high-quality material, which makes it a durable option that will last you a long time. The blade maintains its edge and is very flexible, giving you a lot of room to play with it.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Kershaw’s fillet knife has the perfect size and can be used for filleting large fish with ease. It features a Japanese 420J2 stainless steel blade that bends easily without breaking. The blade is also highly corrosion-resistant, making it suitable to use in wet environments, without having to worry about it rusting or buildup. This allows it to move through the flesh easily without rendering the fillet.
The handle is made using a co-polymer material that is durable and offers comfort. It is textured to provide a strong grip that is soft yet firm. This makes filleting large fish less fatiguing. It also features hand protectors at both ends, that not only fit the hand but also lock in to provide an extra comfortable grip.
Bottom Line
The bottom line is that the Kershaw 1259X is a good filleting knife that offers a comfortable performance. It features a soft textured handle that provides a comfortable grip. It is made using premium-quality materials, making it a durable option. The soft blade is bendable and is great for filleting salmon. This knife offers great performance and is definitely one you should check out.
Best Fillet Knife For Fish:
Rapala Fish n Fillet Superflex
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The majority of users report that this Rapala model is a great filleting knife. You can use it for other tasks as well, such as skinning the fish. The blade features a PTFE non-stick coating that allows one to remove the fillet from the skin smoothly. You can use this knife for both large and small fish.
Why it Stands Out to Us
There’s no doubt that this is a must-have for all the fishermen out there. At the same time, it is suitable for professional chefs and house cooks due to its versatility.
The knife features a polished wood handle along with a tooled leather sheath that you can use to store the knife away when not in use. It also features a stainless steel blade coated with a non-stick black PTFE layer. This allows you to run the blade through fish smoothly without having to exert any pressure.
Bottom Line
To sum up, the Rapala Superflex knife features a hand-ground stainless steel blade that is available in two different lengths. The blade is both thin and flexible, which makes it easier to control and use.
You can use this knife to slice meat without having to do much. The handle offers a comfortable grip, making the unit easy and safe to use.
Best Electric Fillet Knife:
Rapala Heavy-Duty Knife
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
According to users, this is one of the best knives from Rapala. Its motor is very powerful and allows you to do a lot of work easily. It doesn't heat up even after using it continuously. The blades are both sharp and fast, while the handle offers a comfortable grip. This knife is better than many options that you’ll use.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Rapala Heavy-Duty knife is an electric unit that features reciprocating blades. This means that it offers you twice the blade power compared to other units. The blades are sharp and are designed such that they can easily cut through medium and large fish.
It features an eight-feet power cord that is long enough for most uses. You can easily move around without being restricted by the cord. The knife also features an ergonomic handle that is comfortable for you to hold while you cut and slice. The handle is designed to reduce vibrations and improve the airflow, keeping the motor cool.
Bottom Line
To summarize everything, the Rapala Heavy Duty Knife offers you great performance. It features a blade that offers twice the speed and three times the power compared to a standard electric fillet knife.
It features the perfect size that allows you to use it for almost all of your dishwasher needs. The handle provides a comfortable grip and makes it easy for you to work for longer periods without feeling any fatigue.
Best Fillet Knife For Saltwater Fish:
KastKing Fillet Knife
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most users report that this KastKing knife is amazing. It features a sleek, super sharp blade, along with a textured handle that makes sure you are comfortable. It also offers a secure grip. The knife is made using high-quality material, which ensures that it will last for a long period of time. Moreover, the design is very appealing to the eye.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The KastKing fillet knife features a razor-sharp blade that has a stunning black finish. It is known for maintaining its edge, making it great for dealing with both fresh and saltwater fishes. You can easily use it for a number of different applications, including cutting, filleting, steaking, trimming and boning.
Moreover, the handle is very comfortable to use and slip-resistant. It features polymer grips that help ensure safety and offer comfort. It also makes sure that you have a solid grip over the knife.
Lastly, the knife is easy to control and maintain.
Bottom Line
To sum up, the knife features a premium blade that allows you to use it for multiple tasks, including filleting, steaking, trimming and boning, etc. It is a must-have for both professional and home chefs alike. It is a comfortable option to consider and allows you to get the job done without having to do much.
Best Cordless Fillet Knife:
Rapala Lithium Ion Cordless Fillet Knife
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Reports by recent buyers show that this is a very sharp option that you can continuously use without having to worry about it overheating. You don't have to apply too much pressure in order to use it. You can use it for any sized fish; it makes the job easier and makes the entire process faster.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Rapala cordless fillet knife is a reliable option that can be used for straight eighty minutes without having to charge the battery as it doesn’t run out of power that easily. The knife features two lithium batteries so that you don’t run out of power.
The model comes with reciprocating blades that are incredibly sharp, allowing you to cut thin slices and get closer to the fishbone. It comes with a powerful motor that delivers sufficient power for you to fillet and clean the fish over long periods easily.
Moreover, the advanced airflow design supports superior venting due to which the motor runs coolly and smoothly.
Bottom Line
Simply put, the Rapala Lithium Ion electric fillet knife is a great option for you to consider. It is sharp and consistent, and the blade is able to hold its edge well. You can use it continuously for a long period. It is a cordless unit, which makes it a very comfortable option. In all, it delivers a great performance and is definitely worth considering.
Best Folding Fillet Knife:
Buck 0220BLS
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
As per recent reports, this Knife is preferred by many users as it offers overall amazing performance. The size fits the average hand while the added length makes a great option for bigger hands.
Buyers state that it is very comfortable, and the finger grip allows you to get a solid grip, giving you more control over it. The blade is very sharp and makes the filleting process a lot easier.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Buck 0220BLS is the best folding fillet knife for both fresh and saltwater. It is made using premium material, which allows it to last a long period of time. It features a lightweight, razor-sharp blade that provides you with a professional filleting experience. You can fold the blade once you’re done using it and can store it away without a sheath.
This fillet knife has the ideal size that allows it to easily fit in all hand sizes. It is suitable for heavy-duty jobs and is a must-have for professional culinary chefs.
The blade is made of titanium-coated stainless steel that prevents both rust and corrosion; therefore, allowing it to be used for both fresh and saltwater fish. The handle is made using Blue glass reinforced polypropylene and is TPE rubberized to provide a non-slip grip and ensure comfort.
Bottom Line
All in all, the knife is a great choice. It features a razor-sharp, durable, and corrosion-resistant blade. The best part about it is you can fold it up in case you are short on space. You can even attach it to yourself or to your gear with a built-in lanyard.
The handle features an anti-slip design. It also comes with a stainless steel safety guard, which makes it a lot safer to use.
Best Fillet Knife For Trout:
Zwilling J.A. Henckels Fillet Knife
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Many users love this knife. It features a sharp, clean-cutting blade that makes it easier for you to fillet and debone without having to exert much pressure. It maneuvers into the protein and cuts it without any hassle. Moreover, you don't waste any of the meat either. It is comfortable to use and should be a part of your kitchen paraphernalia.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Zwilling J.A Henckels fillet knife is a must-have for both professional chefs and home cooks. It is a fish gutting knife featuring a high carbon, long blade. It is both rust and corrosion free and will last a longer performance.
The blade comes with a hand-finished stain-free edge. Its overall size and flexibility help ensure that you’ll be able to cut the fish at a perfect angle with ease. It also features a polypropylene handle along with a bolster to provide users with the maximum grip and the perfect balance. It also acts as a safety guard for the fingers.
Bottom Line
Last but not least, this is a strong and durable knife that features a long sharp blade. The craftsmanship makes the blade extremely sharp and hard. This knife is the best size for dealing with medium-sized fishes such as trout. It is flexible, has a comfortable handle, and is dishwasher safe.
When Should I Use a Fillet Knife?
A fillet knife is normally used for slicing and cutting meat. The thin, sharp blade is extremely flexible, which makes it easier for it to reach areas that other knives can't. You can slice thin, even pieces without having to exert extra pressure.
However, they aren’t just used for filleting; you can use them for other purposes as well. These include:
For Cutting Chicken
A fillet knife allows you to cut thin strips and slices of chicken breast for different recipes. You can easily use it to remove the fat from the chicken. It also makes it easier for you to open up the chicken in half, or you can use it to handle large chunks of chicken easily.
For Cutting Decorative Vegetables
Filleting knives can be used for cutting vegetables into different shapes and sizes. The sharp, thin blade allows you to cut your vegetables in intricate designs, allowing you to make your food look more presentable. In short, they let you be creative with your food.
For Cleaning the Fish
Perhaps the most common use for a fillet knife is to clean fish. It makes it easier to remove all the internal organs and gills.
Moreover, you can easily clean it to prevent bacteria from coming in contact with the fish.
For Meat Slicing
A fillet knife is great for slicing meat into thin slices. You don’t necessarily need a meat slicer if you have a fillet knife on hand. This makes it easier for you to get skinny meat slices without having to do much.
Pros and Cons of Fillet Knives
Before purchasing a fillet knife, it is better to know how useful it actually is. There are certain factors that set these knives apart from others. However, similar to every other product, they too have some drawbacks. Let’s see both aspects of these knives:
Pros
Here are some pros of using filleting knives.
An Efficient Filleting Performance
A fillet knife allows you to debone and fillet your fish much faster compared to other kitchen knives.
Easier to Handle Different Types of Fishes
These knives allow you to work on different types and sized fishes.
Allows You Handle the Meat Delicately
Fillet knives feature a longer and thinner blade compared to a typical deboning knife, which makes them more effective at separating the fish meat and skin delicately from the bones without ruining it.
Easier to Maneuver
The thinner blades of these knives make them a lot more flexible, which allows them to easily maneuver through the fish. You need to apply minimal pressure to puncture the skin.
Cons
On the other hand, some cons you might experience include:
They Bend Easily
You need to be careful when filleting larger, thicker pieces of meat as these knives bend easily, which ruins the blade.
Cannot be Used For Anything Else
The thin and long blade cannot be used for anything other than deboning and filleting fish.
How to Sharpen a Fillet Knife
Sharpening a fillet knife is different compared to other knives. With other knives, you bring them across the stone and sharpen the middle while the tip is left out. However, when it comes to sharpening a fillet knife, the tip is to be taken care of too. So here’s what you need to do to sharpen a fillet knife:
Reverse the Knife and Start at The Tip
Bring the knife in the opposite direction as you go across the stone. For dull knives, you will have to be a bit more aggressive. Reversing the knife and starting with the tip puts a lot of pressure on it, which makes it perfect for filleting. However, you might have to do this step a couple of times, especially if your knife is extremely dull.
Clean Your Knife
The next step is to clean the knife. Bring it against the steel and put it downwards, or if you’re not too comfortable, then draw it away from your body. You will feel your knife sharpening. Once that is done, just clean your knife and you're done.
If you still have any confusion, watch this video to understand the process better and sharpen your knife easily.
Conclusion
Fillet knives are a must-have for all culinary professionals as well as home chefs. They make the filleting process a lot easier. You can cut and slice your fish without having to exert much pressure. They make it easier for you to cut thin, delicate slices, and you can use them for making intricate designs.
Overall, they make the cooking experience a lot more pleasant, making it an essential kitchen tool. There are many different options available in the market, and you can find one that suits you the best easily.
People Also Ask
Before purchasing a filleting knife, you might still be uncertain about a few things. While the market is full of different options, it does get very confusing when you have to choose one that would make your cooking experience more enjoyable. But don't worry; here are a few questions that most people ask before they purchase a filleting knife. You can go through them to clear your head of any queries.
What Size of Fillet Knife is Best?
When it comes to choosing a filleting knife, the size matters just as much as the blade's sharpness. In fact, it is really important that you choose the correct size as it helps in determining how you can cut and fillet a particular type of fish. The size of your knife mainly depends on the type of fish you’re working with.
These knives feature blades that are available in various lengths, and each length is suitable for a particular type and size of fish. Shorter blades are typically used for smaller fish or when you need to be precise when cutting. Meanwhile, for fishes like trout, you will require a medium-sized blade, that is roughly around seven inches.
Larger blades are more suitable for tending to larger fish. Apart from that, you also need to keep in mind your storage or transportation options. For a smaller space, a folding knife is a better option.
Is a Boning Knife the Same as a Fillet Knife?
Boning and fillet knives don't have that much of a difference. The latter is a lot more flexible and features a long, super-sharp blade, which allows them to easily cut the fish meat delicately from the bones.
Meanwhile, the former is used for spearing the meat from the bones, and they don't feature a flexible blade. They are very short compared to a fillet knife. Professional models usually feature a blade that is both short and semi-stiff and can be used to handle all types of proteins, including chicken, beef, and poultry.
Do You Need a Fillet Knife?
Filleting knives are designed while keeping in mind how delicate fish meat can be. You can't use a normal kitchen knife to cut fish meat with precision, mainly because it isn't as flexible as a fillet knife. So you can’t really achieve your desired results. Fillet knives are specifically designed for cutting and cleaning fish; therefore, they are an essential tool for every kitchen.
What is the Best Steel For a Fillet Knife?
Fillet knives are usually made using carbon steel or stainless steel. These premium materials help ensure that the blade is extremely sharp. Fillet knives made from stainless steel are very tough and often difficult to sharpen; however, the blade edge retains for a longer period.
Meanwhile, carbon steel knives are easy to sharpen and are both rust and corrosion-resistant. Apart from that, carbon blades are both lightweight and very durable.
How Thick is a Fillet Knife?
It is important that fillet knives feature a flexible blade to help make the cutting process easy. And the flexibility of the blade depends on its thickness. The thicker the blade, the less flexible and longer it will be, meanwhile knives that have a thinner blade offer a lot more flexibility.
When dealing with smaller fish, you need a flexible knife as you will have to cut them on tighter angles, whereas larger fish require blades that are stronger and thicker.
