Best Fishing Pliers and Multi-Tools (2024)
A quality pair of fishing pliers might be the most used tool on a fishing trip. Hook removal from fish and from structure, crimping wire leaders, cutting braid (which won't cut with scissors), opening split rings, bending hooks — these are daily tasks. We've tested pliers across CT freshwater and saltwater fishing, losing a few overboard in the process.
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Huk 7.5-inch Stainless Steel Pliers
Best overall fishing pliersHuk makes fishing-specific apparel and accessories with thoughtful anglers behind the design decisions. The 7.5-inch pliers handle everything from light freshwater hook removal to heavy leader work in saltwater. The braid-cutting blade is sharp out of the box and maintains an edge through a full season. The spring-loaded return allows single-hand operation — useful when your other hand is holding a fish. A well-priced, complete package.
Cuda 7-inch Titanium Bonded Pliers
Best for saltwater and heavy useCuda has become a go-to brand for saltwater fishing tools due to their titanium bonded construction — resistant to the rapid corrosion that destroys standard stainless tools in saltwater environments. The wide jaw opening accommodates large treble hooks and 7/0+ circle hooks used in CT surf fishing. The replaceable cutter blade extends the plier life indefinitely. For CT striper, bluefish, and tautog anglers, the titanium bonding is worth the consideration over standard stainless.
KastKing Fishing Pliers
Best budget optionKastKing makes accessible fishing gear that punches above its price point, and their fishing pliers are adequate for freshwater use and occasional saltwater applications. At under $17 with a sheath and lanyard included, these are the right starting point for anglers who haven't yet developed a preference. Rinse with fresh water after saltwater sessions. Replace when the cutter dulls — they're inexpensive enough that replacing annually is cost-effective.
Buying Guide
**Fishing Tool Essentials: Beyond Just Pliers**
**Hook Removal Tools** Long-nose pliers: For reaching deep into the mouth for hook removal. Specifically useful for catfish, bluefish, and any species that tends to swallow the hook. Hook removers: Stick-style or J-style devices that slide down the line to push the hook out with minimal handling. Good for conservation-focused catch-and-release. Forceps (hemostats): Borrowed from medicine, excellent for small hook removal from trout and panfish without causing damage.
**Cutting Braid** Braided line cannot be cut cleanly with regular scissors or most standard knife blades. You need either: - Purpose-made braid scissors (very sharp, ceramic or hardened blades) - Fishing pliers with a tungsten or hardened braid cutter Using cheap scissors on braid results in fraying rather than cutting — use the right tool.
**Split Ring Pliers** Opening split rings by hand (the metal rings connecting hooks to lures) is frustrating and can injure your fingers. Dedicated split ring pliers have a notch that opens the ring safely. Essential if you frequently change hooks on lures.
**Lanyard** A fishing pliers lanyard clips to your PFD or boat and prevents losing expensive tools overboard. If you're kayak fishing or boat fishing, lanyard everything. Pliers going overboard is more common than you'd expect.
**Maintenance** After saltwater use: Rinse with fresh water, dry, apply a light coat of oil or WD-40 to hinge and cutter mechanism. Store with spring-load open to prevent spring fatigue. Check cutter sharpness periodically — a dull cutter damages braid rather than cutting it cleanly.
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