Our Top 12 Best Fishing Pliers 

Are you Looking for the best fishing pliers? These tools may seem small in your tackle box, but they’re an angler’s best friend. if we talk about securing hooks or crimping wire to release sportfish swiftly, the right pair of pliers can be a game-changer on the water.

While some opt for cheaper hardware store alternatives, the true value of quality pliers becomes clear when faced with a tricky situation: extracting a deeply lodged hook or handling a toothy catch. Trust me, it can get very difficult without the right pliers!

That’s why I come with the top 12 best fishing pliers. These aren’t just accessories but crucial for fishing to prevent injuries, and preserve the catch. I’ve spent some time researching various options to present you with the best of the best.

Ready to find the perfect fit for your tackle box? Let’s get started!

Best Surf fishing fliers 

1. Van Staal Titanium Pliers (Best Overall)
2. Leatherman Wave Plus Multitool (Best Multitool)
3. Gerber Magniplier Fishing Pliers (Best For Freshwater)
4. Bubba Fishing Pliers (Best For Beginners)
5. Cuda Titanium Bonded Pliers (Best For Big Hands)
6. Dr. Slick Barracuda Pliers (Best Comfort)
7. KastKing Cutthroat Fishing Pliers (Best Budget)
8. Piscifun Fishing Pliers (Best Cutthroat Alternative)
9. Booms H01 Scissors (Best Budget Durability)
10. Rapala 11-inch Long Reach Pliers (Best Long Reach)
11. Cuda 7-inch Freshwater Forceps (Best Forceps)

1)Van Staal Titanium Pliers (Best saltwater fishing plier)

Key Features

• It’s titanium material, and customers like the quality also they mention that it’s completely corrosion resistant.
• Design with precision bushings to provide consistent smooth cutting
• Ergonomic handles: Comfortable grip with contoured handles for extended use without fatigue.
• Include lanyard sheath
• Also, have replacement cutters
• Resistance to rust and harsh marine environments.

Pros

1. Exceptional durability in harsh conditions
2. Various functionalities
3. Corrosion-resistant for long-term use
4. Comfortable grip for extended fishing sessions

Cons

Some customers complained that the VS plirs are poorly aligned

Ideal Fishing Situations

This is Best for Saltwater fishing because of its corrosion to resistance and rust in marine environments. Anyways it’s ideal for many fishing scenarios due to their multi-functionality and durability.

2)Leatherman Wave Plus Multitool (Best Multitool)

Key Features

• Versatile Functionality: Offers multiple tools in one compact unit
• One-Hand Operation: Some tools can be accessed and operated using only one hand, enhancing convenience during fishing tasks
• Durable Construction: Made from high-quality stainless steel for durability and rust resistance
• Portability: Foldable design with a handy carrying case or belt sheath for easy portability

Pros

1. Many tools
2. Portable & Compact
3. Sturdy construction for longevity
4. One-handed accessibility for added convenience

Cons

May be havier or not easy to use compared to some other dadicated pliers

Ideal Fishing Situations

Good for general use, emergency use or if you have not enough space

3)Gerber Magniplier Fishing Pliers (Best Freshwater fishing pliers)

Key Features

• Ergonomic handle design for comfortable and non-slip handling, reducing hand fatigue during extended use.
• Both Lanyard and Sheath
• Crabide cutter material

Pros

• specifically designed for freshwater conditions, reducing the risk of corrosion.
• Ergonomic handles provide a comfortable grip, reducing hand strain during use.

Cons

Not suitable for saltwater
Limited Features

Ideal Fishing Situations

For those anglers in freshwater bodies like lakes, rivers, and streams.

4)Bubba Fishing Pliers (Best For Beginners)

Key Features

• Beginner-Friendly Design: User-friendly features, best for beginners
• Durable Construction: Used durable materials, ensuring longevity and resistance to corrosion.
• Gripping Power: Specifically designed jaws for enhanced gripping power and easier hook removal.
• Ergonomic Grip: Comfortable handle design to reduce hand fatigue during extended use, making them suitable for beginners adapting to fishing techniques.

Pros

1. Easy to use for beginners
2. Durable constructions which ensures longitivity in many fish conditions
3. Non-slip grip handle

Cons

May lack of some advanced features for experianced anglers

Ideal Fishing Situations

Perfect for individuals new to fishing or for casual fishing

5)Berkley XCD Fishing Plier

Key Features

Made of durable carbon steel jaws
Corrosion-resistant composite coating
Ergonomic co-molded handle with spring-assisted one-hand operation
Suitable for various cutting, tuning, and crimping tasks
Adjustable lanyard included

Pros

Strong and durable
Ergonomic and easy-to-use design
For multiple fishing tasks
Corrosion-resistant

Cons

May be too specialized for certain uses

Ideal Fishing Situations

Freshwater settings

6)Cuda Titanium Bonded fishing Pliers (Best For Big Hands)

key Features

• Durable titanium-bonded construction ensures extended tool life and corrosion resistance.
• Includes a nylon sheath for secure storage and easy accessibility.
• Tungsten carbide integrated cutters

Pros

1. Extremely durable construction due to full-tang titanium bonded aluminum alloy, promising longevity.
2. Versatile cutting ability, capable of efficiently handling braided, monofilament, and fluorocarbon lines.
3. Includes a ballistic nylon sheath and lanyard, facilitating safe storage and convenient access.
4. Non-slip Cuda grips provide a secure hold, even in wet conditions, preventing slippage during use.

Cons

Some users might find the size slightly cumbersome for intricate fishing tasks.

Ideal Fishing Situations

Suited for various fishing scenarios requiring durable pliers with versatile cutting capabilities and secure handling. Ideal for cutting braided, monofilament, and fluorocarbon lines efficiently.

7)Dr. Slick Barracuda Fishing Pliers (Best Comfort)

Key Feature

• Aggressive jaw structure designed for enhanced gripping and control.
• Equipped with side cutters for efficient line and wire cutting.
• Offers an extended length of 8.5 inches for added reach and comfort while handling fish.
• Foam grips provide a comfortable and secure hold, reducing hand fatigue during prolonged use.
• Includes a lanyard and holster for convenient carrying and accessibility.

Pros

• Aggressive jaw structure ensures a secure grip, particularly useful in handling larger fish.
• Side cutter feature enables efficient cutting of lines and wires, enhancing versatility.
• Extended length offers added comfort and distance from potentially hazardous situations.
• Foam grips provide a comfortable and non-slip hold for prolonged fishing sessions.

Cons

The pliers might be relatively bulky for anglers who prefer more compact tools.

Ideal Fishing Situations

Ideal for anglers fishing in varied environments, particularly beneficial when handling larger fish due to the plier’s aggressive jaw structure and extended length. Suitable for saltwater fishing, thanks to the black oxidized finish providing added protection against corrosion.

8)KastKing Cutthroat Fishing Pliers (Best Budget)

Key Features

• • Constructed from corrosion-resistant 420 stainless steel with a tough polymer coating for enhanced protection against harsh saltwater and freshwater environments.
• • Equipped with super hard tungsten carbide cutters that effortlessly slice through mono, fluorocarbon, or braid lines.
• • The side-mounted anvil cutters provide unobstructed access, enabling precise cutting close to knots. Multi-function jaws are designed for various tasks: serrated jaws for hook removal, crimping slots for split shot weight, and knot-cinching holes for secure knot tying.
• • Offers a choice between a straight nose and a split ring nose design to cater to different fishing needs.
• • The ergonomic textured rubber handle ensures a comfortable and slip-resistant grip, facilitating easy one-handed use.
• • Comes with a custom-molded sheath featuring a belt clip for convenient portability and a coiled lanyard to prevent accidental overboard drops.

Pros

1. High-quality construction using stainless steel and tungsten carbide materials, ensuring durability and longevity.
2. Versatile functionality, accommodating various fishing tasks such as hook removal, cutting, crimping, and knot tying.
3. The ergonomic rubber handle offers comfort and control, suitable for extended periods of use.
4. Includes a custom sheath and lanyard for secure storage and easy access during fishing trips.

Cons

May be relatively heavier compared to aluminum pliers, potentially causing fatigue during prolonged use for some anglers.

Ideal Fishing Situations

Ideal for both freshwater and saltwater fishing due to the pliers’ corrosion-resistant construction. Suited for various fishing tasks, including hook removal, line cutting, crimping, and knot tying, offering versatility in different fishing environments.

9)Piscifun Fishing Pliers (Best Cutthroat Alternative)

Key Features

• Made from strong aluminum to fight rust, so great for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.
• It’s easy to use with one hand and has sharp metal jaws for removing hooks.
• The sharp cutters can easily slice fishing lines like braid, mono, and others.
• Comes with a bag and string to carry it easily.

Pros

1. Built tough with aluminum to resist rust and last longer.
2. Designed for one-handed use, simplifying your fishing experience.
3. Sharp metal jaws which remove hooks with less effort.
4. Precise cutters handle various fishing lines with ease.
5. Includes a convenient bag and string for easy portability.

Cons

Check it but unavailable right now (when I’m writing)

Ideal fishing Scenarios

Piscifun Fishing Pliers work well for many fishing scenarios, like handling split rings, fixing fishing lines, and cutting them too.

10)Booms H01 Scissors (Best Budget Durability)

Key Features

• These pliers help remove hooks from small and medium-sized fish easily.
• Opens split rings from Size 1 to Size 5 (ID 3.5mm~5.5mm)
• Cleanly cuts braid, mono, fluorocarbon, and wire.
• Constructed with 420 stainless steel for durability.
• Includes a safety coiled lanyard.

Pros

1. Best for handling small and medium freshwater fish.
2. Great for opening different-sized split rings
3. Precisely cuts various fishing lines.
4. Made from durable stainless steel.

Cons

Specific to smaller fish and freshwater use.

Ideal fishing scenarios

• Perfect for freshwater fishing, particularly handling smaller species like bass and crappie.
• Works well for opening various-sized split rings and cutting different fishing lines cleanly.

11)Rapala 11-inch Long Reach fishing Pliers (Best Long Reach)

Key Features

• Rapala extends your reach for easy access to deeply hooked baits.
• Side cutters, add versatility to your fishing gear.
• Co-molded handles ensure a secure and comfortable grip.
• Durable carbon steel, nickel-plated for rust resistance.

Pros

1. Durable build for rust resistance.
2. Provides a secure grip for comfort.
3. Offers versatile side cutters.
4. Simplifies access to deeply hooked baits.

Cons

Not ideal for precision tasks.

Ideal Fishing Scenarios

Perfect for reaching deep baits or tricky hook placements.

12)Cuda 8.5 Freshwater Forceps (Best Forceps)

Key Features

• Sturdy stainless steel.
• Mono cutters for clean line snipping.
• Includes a handy hook sharpener for quick touch-ups.
• Measuring around 8.5 inches for easy handling during fishing.

Pros

1. Built tough for long-term use.
2. Easy to handle with its suitable length.
3. Features a built-in hook sharpener for convenient maintenance.

Cons

Lacks features for specific fishing needs.

Ideal Fishing Scenarios

• Great for typical freshwater fishing trips.
• Perfect for anglers who need a tool for line cutting and hook care.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Fishing Pliers

Now this section is very important, we will explore the factors to look for to choose the best fishing pliers for your use. Let’s Go –

Material and Durability

Look for pliers made of corrosion-resistant material like titanium, in case if titanium is out of your budget go for the best alternative stainless steel or aluminum for longevity & durability, especially in saltwater condition

Cutting

Check for quality cutting edges. Tungsten carbide cutters or sharp blades are essential for cutting braided lines, mono, fluorocarbon, and wire cleanly and effortlessly.

Grip and Comfort

Make sure that your grip does not slip, ergonomic handles and a comfortable grip are great for long use. Look for textured or rubberized handles that offer a secure hold, even in wet conditions.

Size and Weight

Lightweight is better for easy maneuverability which also enough to handle tough tasks, Also consider size to fit in your tackle box or pocket.

Corrosion Resistance

Fishing pliers exposed to water should be resistant to rust and corrosion for longevity which is great for both frshwater and saltwater.

Safety and Convenience (Lanyard & Sheaths

Look for pliers with sheaths, lanyards, or holsters to secure and carry them easily. To avoid accidental drops or loss while fishing.

FAQ About Fishing Pliers

Can standard pliers substitute fishing-specific ones?

While you can use standard pliers, fishing-specific pliers are designed for fishing use with features like split ring handling, braid cutting, and hook removal ensuring safety & efficiency. While a standard plier for me is not suitable I will not recommend you also standard plier lacks these features for fishing.

Which pliers are best for beginners?

The best pliers for beginners are which is easy to use, multiple functionalities, like split ring handling, cutting braid lines, and removing hooks, are great. Additionally, those with ergonomic designs and easy-grip handles will make handling tasks simpler for you.

Do pliers vary for freshwater and saltwater use?

Yes, they do. Saltwater is more demanding, corrosive pliers with corrosion resistance, saltwater pliers are mostly made of titanium material or stainless steel even aluminum which takes care of protection against rust and corrosion. Freshwater pliers are different and might lack the necessary resistance.

Conclusion & Recommendations

All right, so in the end I will recommend buying the Van Staal 7″ Titanium Pliers Kit with Lanyard and Sheath is the best option don’t go for cheap pliers, as it will waste your time and money might after some time you will need to buy another one. Check it out If you are looking for the best surf-fishing reels or Surf fishing Gear – Good luck for your jouney!