There are countless knife options available on the market in all shapes and sizes. Some cost a pretty penny and others are budget-friendly. Choosing the right knife for the job can be challenging, especially if you go by price alone. There is no guarantee that the more expensive options are better. Knives worth your time should be comfortable, sharp, and durable. You don't want your knife to fail when you need it most. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a fishing knife.
What type of fishing are you doing?
In choosing the right fishing knife, it is important to recognize how you plan to use it. It might catch your eye, but if it doesn't do the job, it's worthless. Fishing with a lot of bait requires a knife with a bigger blade that can double as a bait knife.
Trout fishermen might find something smaller and more compact that is ideal for storing in their vests until needed. Also, consider whether you intend to use the knife to fillet fish or to cut the line and rig tackle with it. A filleting knife generally has a narrow blade that makes it easy to cut through fish and maneuver to get as much meat as possible.
What is the best Material for your Knife?
Blade construction is the foundation of all knives, and not all knives are created equal. When constantly around water, certain steels handle rough conditions better than others. Knives are most vulnerable to rust. Different types of steel have their pros and cons. Corrosion-resistant materials may not hold an edge as well, while others may hold an edge forever, but are difficult to sharpen. The best option is to find a middle ground, and steels like CPM S30V can make great blades. Find out how to pick the best steel for your application by doing some research.
CPM S30V is a high-performance stainless steel. It is a martensitic steel that has high levels of carbon, chromium, and vanadium, making it very hard, wear-resistant, and tough. It is commonly used for knives, surgical instruments, and other cutting tools. CPM S30V is considered to be one of the best steels for high-end knife blades due to its combination of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness.
What is a knife's Edge?
Blade Edge
The Woodshop teacher in high school always talked about how dull tools are more dangerous than sharp ones. Having spent years on the water and in the woods, I can attest to this fact. When your knife is dull, you will have a harder time cutting through things, making you more likely to slip and injure yourself. Always make sure the knife you are using is sharp, especially when cutting lines and filleting fish.
A sharp knife is important because it makes cutting tasks easier, faster, and more efficient. It also helps to improve accuracy and reduces the risk of injury. A dull knife requires more force to make cuts, which increases the likelihood of the blade slipping and causing an injury. Additionally, a dull knife can crush or tear food, leading to a less attractive presentation and a decrease in the quality of the food. Keeping knives sharp is therefore an important aspect of maintaining safety and quality in the kitchen.
You should always maintain your fishing knifes edge
Maintaining an edge also requires a knife that is easy to sharpen. To ensure a razor-sharp edge for years to come, follow these simple maintenance steps. This will keep your knife well-tuned.
- Sharpen regularly: Sharpening your knife regularly will help to keep the edge in good condition. Use a honing rod, sharpening stone, or electric sharpener to bring the edge back to its original shape.
- Use a cutting board: Chopping and slicing on a hard surface can dull your knife quickly. Use a wooden or plastic cutting board to protect the edge.
- Store properly: Store your knives in a safe place where they won't be bumped or knocked around. A knife block or magnetic strip can help keep the edge from getting damaged.
- Clean and dry: Clean and dry your knives thoroughly after use to prevent rust and other forms of corrosion.
- Avoid abuse: Don't use your knife for tasks it wasn't designed for, such as prying or twisting. This can put unnecessary stress on the edge and cause it to dull or become damaged.
- Professional sharpening: If your knife is severely dull, consider having it professionally sharpened. A skilled sharpener can often restore a dull edge to its original condition.
What is the best knife finish for me?
You don't have to buy a bare blade because there are countless finishes and coatings available. Many knives are coated with cerakote or another coating process. Corrosion resistance and rust resistance are excellent with these coatings. To keep the blade looking new, they also protect it from scratches. This is an important consideration if you know you'll be putting your knife through a lot.
There is some easy steps to take to prevent knife corrosion.
To prevent knife corrosion, you can follow these steps:
- Clean and dry thoroughly: After each use, clean your knife thoroughly and dry it completely to prevent moisture from causing corrosion.
- Store properly: Store your knife in a dry place where it won't be exposed to moisture. A knife block, magnetic strip, or leather sheath can help protect your knife from the elements.
- Use a light coat of oil: A light coating of oil, such as vegetable oil or mineral oil, can help prevent corrosion. Apply a thin layer to the blade and handle, and wipe off any excess.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Avoid exposing your knife to harsh chemicals, such as bleach or vinegar, which can cause corrosion.
- Use a protective coating: Consider applying a protective coating, such as a rust inhibitor or wax, to your knife to help prevent corrosion.
- Use stainless steel: Stainless steel is a type of steel that is resistant to rust and corrosion. If you're looking for a knife that is less likely to corrode, consider choosing one made from stainless steel.
