Gear Reviews / Tools & Accessories
Tools & Accessories
Best Fishing Pliers and Hook Removal Tools (2026): What Every Angler Should Have
April 1, 20255 min read
Quick verdict: Best all-around: Rapala Pliers 6.5" / Best budget: Piscifun Fishing Pliers / Best saltwater: Cuda Titanium
Fishing pliers are the tool you reach for on every catch — to remove hooks quickly, cut line cleanly, and crimp leaders. Cheap pliers rust out after a season of saltwater use and have jaws that slip on small hooks. Good pliers last years, have sharp cutters, and are actually easier to use when you're trying to unhook a fish that's flopping in the dark. Here's what to buy.
Some links in our gear reviews may be affiliate links — we always disclose when they are. We never accept payment for favorable coverage. If something isn't worth your money, we'll say so.
Rapala Fishing Pliers 6.5"
Best all-around fishing pliersApprox. $20–$30
Pros
✓Stainless steel construction — handles saltwater use with proper rinsing
✓Built-in line cutter handles mono, fluoro, and light braid cleanly
✓Non-slip handle grip works wet
✓Needle-nose jaw removes deep hooks effectively
✓Spring-loaded — stays open between uses without fighting the spring to close
✓Sheath included for belt or tackle bag attachment
Cons
✗Not titanium — will rust if stored wet repeatedly without rinsing
✗Light braid cuts cleanly; heavy braid (50+ lb) requires a dedicated braid scissors
Best all-around fishing pliers
Check price on Amazon →Affiliate link — we earn a small commission at no cost to you.
Piscifun Fishing Pliers
Best budget pliersApprox. $12–$18
Pros
✓Aluminum construction — lighter than steel, handles occasional saltwater exposure
✓Tungsten carbide cutter handles braid cleanly — unusual at this price
✓Split ring tool built in — essential for swapping treble hooks on lures
✓Lanyard hole and sheath included
✓Excellent value for the features provided
Cons
✗Aluminum is softer than stainless — jaw tips can deform under heavy use
✗Spring mechanism is less refined than higher-end pliers
Best budget pliers
Check price on Amazon →Affiliate link — we earn a small commission at no cost to you.
Cuda Titanium Bonded Pliers 8"
Best for saltwater fishingApprox. $45–$60
Pros
✓Titanium bonded blades are corrosion-resistant in full saltwater immersion
✓8-inch length gives better leverage on deeply embedded hooks in large fish
✓Replaceable cutter blades — when they dull, replace the cutting element, not the whole plier
✓Heavy-duty construction for big fish, heavy hooks, and constant saltwater exposure
✓Sheath and lanyard included; belt-mount ready
Cons
✗$45–$60 is significant for a pair of pliers
✗Heavier than aluminum options — some anglers find the weight tiring over long sessions
Best for saltwater fishing
Check price on Amazon →Affiliate link — we earn a small commission at no cost to you.
Dr. Slick Scissor Clamp (Hemostats)
Best for trout and panfish hook removalApprox. $10–$18
Pros
✓Locking mechanism holds the hook while you back it out — essential for deep-hooked fish
✓Much smaller and more precise than standard pliers for small hooks
✓Straight or curved jaw options
✓Clips to vest or lanyard with a simple ring
✓The tool fly fishers have used for 50 years for a reason
Cons
✗Not suitable for large hooks or heavy saltwater use
✗Chrome plating can rust if left wet
Best for trout and panfish hook removal
Check price on Amazon →Affiliate link — we earn a small commission at no cost to you.
Get the weekly gear roundup
CT-tested gear picks and fishing conditions — every Saturday morning.
Sign Up — Free