If you have ever tried salmon fillets, you know how delicious they are. And anyone who fillets salmon knows how difficult it is to fillet salmon with a chef’s knife. Because not every knife is ideal for salmon, only the best fillet knife for salmon can make filleting a breeze.
After considering all these features for a Salmon cutting knife, we have shortlisted the eight salmon knives.
And from our years of experience, WUSTHOF classic fillet knife is the best fillet knife for salmon. It offers amazing features with prolong life.
To find the best filleting knives for salmon, you must look for the blade’s and handle’s features. Buy a knife with stainless steel or a high-carbon blade for longer durability; it is even better if the blade is German or Japanese steel. The blade length should be between 7-8 inches. Moreover, an ergonomic slip-proof handle is a must-have. Also, get the one with a powerful motor and fast-running blades in an electric knife.
Best Fillet Knives for Salmon – Quick Overview
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
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EDITORS CHOICE
|
WUSTHOF Classic Fillet Knife |
|
Check on Amazon |
|
BEST ELECTRIC
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Rapala Heavy-Duty Electric Fillet Knife |
|
Check on Amazon |
|
BEST FOR THE MONEY
|
Bubba Tapered Flex Fillet Knife |
|
Check on Amazon |
|
BEST DURABLE
|
DALSTRONG Fillet Knife – Gladiator Series |
|
Check on Amazon |
|
BEST AFFORDABLE
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Mercer Culinary Fillet Knife |
|
Check on Amazon |
|
BEST FOR KING SALMON
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Victorinox Cutlery Fillet Knife |
|
Check on Amazon |
|
BUDGET PICK
|
Rhinoreto Fillet Knife |
|
Check on Amazon |
|
BEST PROFESSIONAL
|
Zwilling Pro Fillet Knife |
|
Check on Amazon |
Best Fillet Knife For Salmon – Reviews
Here are the reviews of our top 8 best knives for salmon with their pros and cons.
1. Overall Best Fillet Knife for Salmon: Wusthof Classic Fillet Knife
Specs:
- Blade Length: 7 inches
- Blade Material: High-carbon stainless steel
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Wusthof Classic is a made in Germany filleting knife with an ultra-sharp blade that helps you effortlessly cut fine salmon fillets like the store-bought ones. Along with the excellent sharpness, it has a perfect balance of flex and stiffness, making it a 3-in-1 filleting, deboning, and boning knife. And that means you are paying for the services of three different blades.
The Wusthof Classic fillet knife offers a perfect-sized full tang blade for all salmons, eventually making it one of the best fillet knives for salmon. Handling a sharp-edged knife is very dangerous unless it has an ergonomic handle, a bolster, and a finger guard like the Wusthof classic.
The Wusthof knife is dishwasher safe, so you don’t have to worry about cleaning this extra sharp blade. Although the knife is expensive, it will serve you for years, saving you more by filleting countless fish.
- Flexible, thin, and ultra-sharp blade fillets effortlessly
- Dishwasher safe
- Comfortable and strong grip handle
- Lifetime warranty
- An expensive knife
Verdict
Like many other Wusthof products, the Wusthof Classic fillet knife is a premium dishwasher-friendly knife with an extremely sharp, thin blade and comfortable handle. Although the Wusthof classic is on the pricier side, but quality wise the best fillet knife for salmon anyone can ever have.
2. Best Electric Fillet Knife for Salmon: Rapala Heavy-Duty Electric Fillet Knife
Specs:
- Blade Length: 7.5 inches
- Blade Material: Alloy steel
- Warranty: 1-year warranty
Rapala electric fillet knife has a heavy-duty 110 Volts quick and quiet motor that runs the two reciprocating blades at 2x more speed than other electric knives. Meanwhile, the safety trigger button and the full grip handle prevent accidents. Plus, the dishwasher-safe quality of the serrations makes cleaning a breeze.
The fast-running blades fillet salmon in a single go, and the long power cord helps operate at a distance from the switch. It is one of the best electric fillet knives for salmon at the same price as manual knives.
The Rapala electric filleting knife is amazing, but a single storage case can make it the perfect buy for any kitchen.
- Heavy-duty quiet motor performs efficiently
- Fast running blades cut smoothly
- The blades are dishwasher-friendly
- 8-foot long power cord
- An affordable electric fillet knife for salmon
- No sheath or storage box
Verdict
Rapala has been a quality name since 1936, and we were never disappointed in their heavy-duty electric fillet knife. Your next fishing trip can be a big hit with Rapala’s fast-running sharp blades paired with an ergonomic handle. We certainly suggest buying one to test!
3. Best Alaskan Salmon Fillet Knife: Dalstrong Fillet Knife – Gladiator Series
Specs:
- Blade Length: 7 inches
- Blade Material: German stainless steel
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Dalstrong fillet knife has a 7 inches blade, the size that is perfect for every salmon species. And the full tang German stainless steel blade makes it much more durable before a question arises on its durability. The knife is also easy to store and carry because of the two sheaths. One leather sheath for traveling and the second BPA-free protective sheath to store in a kitchen drawer.
The hand-polished blade is very sharp and flexible, making skinning and filleting salmon very straightforward. It can easily fillet an average-sized Alaskan salmon fish. The knife is definitely a premium product. It includes a non-slip Pakkawood handle with a strong bolster and finger guard to tolerate heavy pressure.
Dalstrong fillet knife undoubtedly deserves every penny as it will last longer than you can imagine. Moreover, the lifetime warranty eliminates every single risk. The blade will need some honing to hold a better edge, but sharpening is quite simple.
- German stainless steel blade ensures durability
- Great sharpness retention and flexible blade
- Strong grip handle with finger choil
- It comes with two sheaths and a lifetime warranty.
- The edge will eventually need a little sharpening
Verdict
Dalstrong has a variety of fillet knives offering great features and long durability – we know because we own many. This Dalstrong salmon fillet knife is also no less, provides a sharp and flexible German blade. And finger guard for effortless and safe filleting.
4. Best Rust-free Fillet Knife for Salmon: Bubba tapered flex fillet knife
Specs:
- Blade Length: 7 inches
- Blade Material: Stainless steel
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Bubba tapered flex fillet knife is an affordable yet good fillet knife for salmon. The blade material and full tang (aka single steel from tip to handle) construction provide a much-extended life at a reasonable price. You can fillet 30+ salmon in one go without sharpening because the blade has great edge keeping tolerance.
The knife is sturdy, lightweight, and has a storage sheath to carry and store. The Bubba flexible knife has an ergonomic handle with a finger guard, providing a perfect grip when filleting salmon.
However, you can also consider buying the stiff blade version of this knife which is ideal for filleting Alaskan King Salmon. The Bubba stiff fillet knife has a 9 inches blade with the same amazing grip handle. Click here to check the price of Bubba stiff blade.
- Corrosion-resistant coating never lets the flexible blade rust.
- The knife has an ergonomic non-slip and full grip handle and also comes with a blade sheath.
- Excellent edge retention qualities
- It is a pocket-friendly knife for salmon.
- Except for the reduced quality blade sheath, the knife has no such con to discuss.
Verdict
The Bubba flexible fillet knife is made to last long with its rust-resistant blade. The construction provides a durable edge, while the ergonomic handle supplies a strong grip. And the blade’s flexibility makes deboning salmon a breeze; why not give it a try?
5. Most Affordable Salmon Fishing Fillet Knife: Mercer Culinary Fillet Knife
Specs:
- Blade Length: 8.5 inches
- Blade Material: High carbon Japanese steel
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Mercer culinary filleting knife is the most affordable knife you can find for salmons. Watch out because it has a very dangerously sharp blade and cuts in a flash, working as a laser on fish. It has a great balance and flexes for filleting, deboning, and skinning fish.
The knife holds its edge very well and can be sharpened by running through any quality sharpener. Plus, the handle gives a rubbery feel while providing an easy and trustworthy grip.
Mercer culinary knife shows an excellent value for money, and you are paying less for the qualities you get served with this one. It offers similar features to the Dalstrong filleting knife, but it becomes better considering the price.
- A long and sharp blade to fillet every salmon
- Strong grip handle and Japanese steel blade
- Offers better features than expensive knives at a lesser price.
- Don’t bend the blade because it is flexible, and the tip might bend.
Verdict
Mercer Culinary fillet knife is the best yet most affordable fillet knife for all fish. The knife offers a reliable and simple handle accompanying a Japanese steel blade with a razor-sharp edge. We can say Mercer Culinary has a great value for money.
6. Best Fillet Knife for King Salmon: Victorinox Fillet Fishing Knife
Specs:
- Blade Length: 8 inches
- Blade Material: High carbon stainless steel
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
The Victorinox fillet knife is so sharp out of the box that you can immediately start filleting salmon. Its sharpness and blade length made every butcher’s favorite knife to fillet king salmon. The blade keeps a great edge and is very easy to sharpen when it gets dull.
The knife provides all features that an expensive smoked salmon knife offers. It has a comfortable and simple handle to give your hand an easy and nice grip without the risk of slipping off. The blade is not full tang steel and might not stand heavy pressure, but who applies much pressure on a fillet knife?
Victorinox fillet knife is affordable yet exceptional for home fishers and profitable for professionals because it will save lots of money. We are sure that once you buy this knife, you are not going anywhere else.
- A lightweight and ultra-sharp knife
- Excellent retention to sharpness
- Great value for money
- Comfortable slip-resistant handle
- The knife doesn’t have a full tang blade
- No sheath or protective cover
Verdict
Although it is not a very premium full tang knife, but undoubtedly a fantastic knife to have in our kitchens, the Victorinox fillet knife has a very finely sharpened blade which keeps a great edge and is very easy to sharpen. The knife is definitely offering brilliant features at this price. Highly recommended!
7. Best Salmon Cutting Knife and Sharpener Combo: Rhinoreto Fillet Knife
Specs:
- Blade Length: 7-8 inches
- Blade Material: Stainless steel
- Warranty: No warranty
Looking for a flexible and sharp filleting knife to skin and fillet salmon? Search no more!
The blade of the Rhinoreto fillet knife is sharp and flexible, which helps the salmon slicing knife in thin filleting and skinning with little to no waste. Plus, it comes with a two-stage sharpener to sharpen knives anywhere.
The knife has a blade size range of 5-9 inches, but a 7-8 inches blade is enough and perfect for salmons. And a vented sheath, a strong grip, and a comfortable, premium rubber handle are quite impressive at such an affordable price.
Rhinoreto fillet knife is lightweight with a nonstick-coated blade, making cleaning very simple. However, the edge will need honing through the fine stage of its sharpener.
- A sharp curve-edged knife
- A high-quality rubber handle supports an ideal grip
- Well-fitted vented blade sheath
- A 2in1 knife and sharpener combo
- No warranty
- The blade might need honing
Verdict
Rhinoreto fillet knife is an expert in filleting salmon because of its flexible and sharp blade. It offers a high-quality handle and a vented sheath to dry the blade in seconds. Plus, a portable knife sharpener for instant sharpening. Certainly, the knife is no less than many expensive knives.
8. Best Salmon Fillet Knife for Professional Use: Zwilling Pro Fillet Knife
Specs:
- Blade Length: 7 inches
- Blade Material: High-carbon stainless steel
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Zwilling fillet knife is a flexible, razor-sharp knife with great blade retention qualities. The blade comes impressively sharp out of the box, so be careful unboxing it. The edge is brilliantly sharp, and the knife will last long. And due to its durability and amazing sharpness, you can use it professionally without a second thought.
The long handle and the full tang blade give the knife a good balance. On the other hand, the comfortable handle provides the best grip among all Zwilling’s knives.
Although you are paying a good price for the knife, it saves you from wasting money on poor-quality store-bought knives.
- Razor-sharp blade out of the box
- It offers great balance and easy handling
- The finger guard secures the hand.
- Expensive knife
Verdict
Like most of Zwilling’s knives, this one is also known for its exceptionally sharp blade right from the box. Moreover, the outstanding balance and amazing grip handle prove its premium quality. The knife is expensive; however, it offers extended life.
Buying Guide For Finding The Best Salmon Fillet Knife
We will give you a buying guide that might clear your confusion regarding the qualities of a salmon knife. And here it is,
1. Blade Material
The blade materials that every best salmon knife uses are high-carbon steel and stainless steel. Both materials keep a sharp edge, but stainless steel has better retention (ability to hold a sharp edge) than high-carbon steel.
Another thing is a German or Japanese steel blade. Steel of best japanese fillet knife is very durable and has a great blade edge, but German stainless steel is undoubtedly better in blade retention and longevity.
2. Blade Length
A blade should always be longer than the fish’s width, so the filleting knife blade can fillet and skin fish in one go. A 7-8 inches long blade will work great to skin and fillet it for salmon.
Related Post: Best Fillet Knife Sharpener
3. Handle
Opt for a Salmon fillet knife with an ergonomically built handle to keep you safe from accidents. So, always choose a knife with an ergonomic handle, a 4-5 inches long blade, and a finger guard.
4. Warranty
Many salmon fillet knives offer a warranty and sometimes even a lifetime warranty. And we prefer the models with a guarantee to avoid risking our investment.
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FAQs
Q1: Of what size fillet knife for salmon is ideal?
You will need a long blade best fillet knife for salmon to fillet and skin salmon in one stroke. A 7-8 inches blade can effortlessly make any knife, the best salmon filleting knife.
Q2: Can I use a boning knife for filleting and deboning salmon?
You can use a boning knife for filleting, but you will surely waste a lot of meat because of its stiff and thick blade. A filleting knife has a flexible, thin, and sharp edge to help you fillet, skin, and debone salmon without a hitch.
Q3: Is a German or Japanese steel blade better for a salmon fillet knife?
Both steels are excellent for filleting salmon and are better than ordinary steels. However, German steel exceeds Japanese steel in terms of longer durability and greater power to hold a sharp edge.
Conclusion
We have reviewed the top eight salmon filleting knives. And from our experience, WUSTHOF Classic Fillet Knife is the best fillet knife for salmon. Remember that a sharper blade makes filleting less dangerous than a dull knife. So, keep your knife razor-sharp to keep your filleting process safe.
