It’s no secret that fishing requires a fair amount of tools, tackle, and equipment.
But there are ways you can trim down the amount of gear you need to carry to your favorite spot.
And one way you can successfully remove the extra weight and bulk, is by using all-in-one tools.
Below, you’ll find a review of the best fishing multi tools on the market.
Practical, versatile, cost-effective, and space-saving – why pack several when you can just use one?
Table of Contents
- At-a-Glance – What to Look For With a Fishing Multitool
- The 11 Best Fishing Multi Tools in 2024
- Gerber Suspension Multi-Plier
- Berkley Fishing Multi-Tool
- Swiss Ascent Fishing Multi-Tool
- Victorinox Fisherman Fishing Trip Multi-Tool
- Booms Fishing L1 Pliers Multi-Tool
- BesWlz Stainless Fishing Tool Set
- Gentlemen's Hardware AGEN277 Fishing Multi-Tool
- Leatherman Wave Plus Multitool
- Gerber Linedriver Fishing Line Multi-Tool
- Rapala Fishermans Multi-Tool
- Gerber MP600 Pro Scout Multi-Plier
- How to Choose the Best Fishing Multi Tool
- FAQs
- Summary
Disclosure: At BonfireBob, we recommend products based on unbiased research, however, BonfireBob.com is reader-supported and as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases if you shop through the links on this page. For more information, see disclosure here.
At-a-Glance – What to Look For With a Fishing Multitool
Fear not! The reviews are coming shortly.
But before we get stuck into finding out which multitool has the most amount of practical features, he’s a brief guide to what you should be looking out for before purchasing.
- Why choose a multitool in the first place? Is it going to be useful for you?
- Examine the tools that it has – are they practical for fishing?
- Ease of use – some multitools are more trouble than they’re worth.
- Durability – we all like products that are built to last.
- Storage and portability – is it easy to carry?
- Cost – make sure you stay within your budget. Remember – fishing can get expensive!
Armed with those pointers, you will better understand all the features and factors that come with choosing a new fishing multitool.
But just for good measure, here are my top three choices. See if you agree with me.
The Gerber Gear multi tool has an astonishing amount of five-star reviews, and as such it’s hard to overlook as the best choice out there. Tough, rugged, and durable, you know this is a name to trust.
Berkley’s entry is a dedicated fishing multitool that packs in a lot of features, and comes with a handy carrying pouch to keep it protected. Not only that, but you can’t go wrong at this price point.
Finally, I’ve gone for the Swiss Accent option, which might not be your first thought when it comes to multitools, but there are certainly loads of useful features here, and all dedicated towards angling.
Why not read on to check out the rest of the reviews, and see if you agree with my picks.
The 11 Best Fishing Multi Tools in 2024
Gerber Suspension Multi-Plier
Speaking of more well-known brands, here we have the first Gerber product – a company that requires little introduction when it comes to outdoor tools and equipment.
I’ve chosen the Suspension model here, which is more than worthy to go toe-to-toe with the premium Leatherman – especially considering the price.
Featuring 12 integrated components – including durable, spring-loaded pliers and sharp blades – the tool is super-compact when folded up at just four inches long.
A tool locking system ensures safe use, while the open-frame steel handle is lightweight and easy-to-clean.
Pros
- Name to trust.
- Outstanding price for the quality.
- Very highly rated.
- Sheath included.
Cons
- The pouch isn’t the best.
Takeaway
Easily one of the most highly-rated multi tools out there – and not just for fishing. This offering from Gerber is as versatile as they come, but if you really need something more dedicated, then check out this review on the best fishing pliers on the market.
Berkley Fishing Multi-Tool
Berkley is up there with the best fishing brands in the world, so it stands to reason they should have some showing here. This is their take on the fishing multi tool, spring-loaded for ease-of-use, and made with corrosion-resistant stainless steel to withstand the trials and tribulations of harsh water environments.
Packed with dedicated fishing tools, including a fish scaler, jig-eye cleaner, and crank-bait tuner, this is an instrument that has been specially designed with anglers in mind, and completed with a weather-resistant red finish.
Pros
- Great price.
- Name to trust.
- Dedicated fishing multi tool.
- Phillips/flat head screwdrivers for reels.
- Easy-to-use.
- Pouch included.
Cons
- None to speak of.
Takeaway
For the price, this is one of the best multi tools for fishing out there – especially considering it’s been designed with that specific purpose in mind, rather than being simply for general use. But then, you’d expect nothing less from Berkley.
Swiss Ascent Fishing Multi-Tool
Something a little different now with this device that offers a lot of useful fishing tools packed into one handy unit.
Using an alternative to design to that of spring-loaded pliers, it provides plenty of the regular fishing tools as well as including a few extras that could well prove useful when you’re out on the water.
These include a built-in weight scale, flashlight, and tape measure, as well as a bottle opener from when you’re ready to crack a cold one from one of these awesome fishing coolers. A great gift for any angler, this seriously reduces the amount of gear anyone will need to pack on their next trip.
Pros
- 10 tools in one.
- Compact and lightweight.
- Foldable stand.
- Stainless steel tools.
Cons
- No pliers.
- No sheath or pouch included.
- Batteries required for flashlight.
Takeaway
While this is a great little tool that provides some useful extras, you should also check out this review on the best saltwater fishing pliers – because that’s the only thing that’s really lacking here.
Victorinox Fisherman Fishing Trip Multi-Tool
Easily the most iconic multi-tools available, the Swiss Army knife has been around since 1891, and Victorinox are the sole manufacturers of the original version today.
No multi tool article would be complete without one, and I’ve naturally gone for their Fisherman model – which I myself had when I was a boy. It’s a beautiful pocket knife, which includes all the trimmings as well as a fish scaler and hook remover.
Built to last and finished in their distinctive red with attractive emblem and Swiss cross, this is the perfect gift for anyone who loves to fish. Check out this review for more awesome fishing knives including this one.
Pros
- Premium build quality.
- Name to trust.
- Compact design.
- Corrosion-resistant.
- Makes a great gift.
Cons
- No pliers.
Takeaway
A Victorinox Swiss Army knife is a thing of beauty, and this angler model is no exception. Sturdy, practical, and built to last – you’ll return to this tool time and again in your tackle box, and then pass it on when you finally hang up your hooks.
Booms Fishing L1 Pliers Multi-Tool
First out of the blocks is this durable fishing multi tool from Booms Fishing.
It comes with 13 useful tools and devices to make your life easier on the water, including split ring pliers with crimp sleeves and line cutters. 6.7 inches in length and weighing just over seven ounces.
It’s lightweight and compact, and made from polished stainless steel which has been designed to resist the rust and corrosion you can experience in saltwater environments.
The handles are spring-loaded for efficient use, and it has plenty of other useful tricks up its sleeves to keep most anglers happy.
Pros
- Outstanding price point.
- Choice of colors available.
- Sheath included.
- Ideal for beginners.
Cons
- No lanyard.
- Not as durable as higher-end options.
Takeaway
As an entry-level fishing multi tool this is hard to beat, especially considering what it packs in for the price. Just don’t expect it to last as long as the big name brands in the same class.
BesWlz Stainless Fishing Tool Set
This fishing multi tool has been upgraded since its first inception, and now offers an additional four extra tools on top of the original six – all of which are highly useful for anglers.
Made from stainless steel, they feature an extra-long, bent nose pliers design, which is ideal for getting into fiddly or hard-to-reach areas – such as deep in the mouths of fish.
The TPR plastic handle ensures the pliers are non-slip, while a strong spring mechanism offers power and control.
Compact and lightweight, this is another great option to cut down the amount of tools you need when you’re out fishing. And it even includes a shrimp peeler.
Pros
- Excellent price.
- Lockable grips.
- Anti-corrosion.
- Pouch included.
Cons
- Might be too small for some.
Takeaway
Designed with portability in mind, this fishing multi tool is as compact and lightweight as they come. The problem is – for certain fish – they’re not going to be large enough for the real heavy-duty jobs.
Gentlemen's Hardware AGEN277 Fishing Multi-Tool
This fishing multi tool has been finished with attractive real wood handles to give it a timeless, classic, vintage appearance.
It also comes in a presentation gift box, making it ideal to give to keen anglers for their next birthday.
Featuring seven different tools, including needle nose pliers, Phillips screwdriver, knife, and line cutter, they have been titanium coated to ensure long life and extra durability.
Compact and lightweight, it can easily fit into a pocket, and will definitely garner a few compliments the next time it’s taken out on a fishing trip.
Pros
- Beautiful aesthetic.
- Durable tools and blades.
- Stylish gift box.
- Practical features.
Cons
- The wood finish won’t be for everyone.
Takeaway
Another great gift option, this is one of the most attractive fishing multi tools on the market. Pair it with a good fishing hat – and you have the perfect present for fisherfolk.
Leatherman Wave Plus Multitool
Well, here it is – the best of the best. The famed Leatherman Wave is regarded as one of the finest multi tools ever constructed, and you just can’t argue with its quality, durability, and versatility.
The only reason it’s not higher up in this review, is that it’s not strictly a dedicated fishing tool.
That said, it can do just about anything you ask of it, so regardless of if you’re fishing or not you’ll have the right tool to hand to accomplish the job.
And with 18 tools in one unit, you can be sure that angling is well covered – even if it doesn’t actually say it on the tin.
Pros
- Premium quality design and construction.
- Name to trust.
- Highly rated.
- All locking blades.
- Built to last a lifetime.
Cons
- On the more expensive side.
Takeaway
It’s a Leatherman – need we say more? Quite simply the best multi tools money can buy, and from their extensive product range, the Wave is probably the best Leatherman for fishing. The downside is – you need a bit of extra cash to purchase one.
Gerber Linedriver Fishing Line Multi-Tool
This is a really useful alternative tool for fisher people – especially if you enjoy fly-fishing. Developed for anglers by anglers, it was born out of frustration, and now offers six useful line management functions to make your life so much easier when you’re on the water.
A spinning hook vise clamps your hook, so your fingers don’t have to, the jig-clearing spike cleans jigs and old line, dual serrated scissors have multiple uses and double as crimping pliers, and a hook threading device makes that job much simpler.
Finally, a rotating tether ring keeps the device close to hand, and even the scissor snips can remain slightly open for you to slice line fast. Altogether, this is an ingenious fishing multi tool from Gerber.
Pros
- Name to trust.
- Practical features for fly anglers.
- Compact size.
- Durable construction.
Cons
- No fishing knife or hook remover.
Takeaway
A great product that certainly has the attention of the community – but some feel it could be improved in a few key areas. Check it out and see if it works for you.
Rapala Fishermans Multi-Tool
Here we have a similar product from another of the world’s best fishing brands. Rapala’s fishing multi tool is in a compact unit, and comes with five, useful devices that can really help you out when you’re on your fishing trip.
The line scissors are retractable, so they don’t get in the way when not in use, so too the convenient jig buster.
A multi-sized line threader helps with hooks and bait, and the beverage wrench helps you and your buddies stay lubricated.
Finally, the carabiner clip keeps the tool close at hand, or you could always keep it in one of these solid saltwater fishing tackle boxes instead.
Pros
- Name to trust.
- Weighty, durable build quality.
- Conveniently located tools.
Cons
- A lock on the scissors would have been nice.
Takeaway
Another well-designed product to improve your fishing experience, Rapala certainly are one of the leading lights out there for anglers. They even have a great entry in this review of winter ice fishing gloves – so take a look if your hands are prone to the chill.
Gerber MP600 Pro Scout Multi-Plier
We finish with another Gerber multi tool now, this time the Pro Scout model.
To be honest, I’ve just included this to give you a nice alternative to the Leatherman, which is probably its closest rival.
Packed with features, it includes Fiskars scissors – so you know it’s been made with premium-quality materials, as well as needle nose pliers, a wire cutter, wire crimper, serrated knife, and much more.
Easy-to-use and open with one hand, a flick of the wrist will get you going – which is great if you’re already carrying other gear.
The Pro Scout is Gerber’s deluxe multi tool model, and for the price, it’s well worth your consideration.
Pros
- Name to trust.
- Durable build quality.
- Great price point for what you get.
- One-handed opening is a real winner.
- Pouch included.
Cons
- Pliers are not spring-loaded.
Takeaway
A competent rival to the market leader, this is a great effort from Gerber, a versatile multi-tool offered at an affordable price point.
How to Choose the Best Fishing Multi Tool
You’ll find a handy buyer’s guide below to help you select the right product for the job, so you can get every tool you need – and none of the fluff.
Why Use a Fishing Multi Tool?
Perhaps the first thing you should be considering is if you need a fishing multi tool in the first place. Let’s explore why they’re a good idea.
Perhaps the most obvious advantage is the amount of room you’ll save in your tackle box.
Even if you’re rocking one of these amazing fishing backpacks, space is limited – especially if you’re an angler who likes to bring the kitchen sink to the water.
A good fishing multi tool will reduce the need to carry several additional tools – providing you select the product that has what you need built-in.
This also makes them very cost-effective, as you don’t need to spend any more money on individual items when you’ve got one that covers everything.
Aside from that, I included many of the fishing multi tools in this review because of how versatile they are – so even when you’re not on the water you can still get some great use out of them.
Basically, everyone should own a good multi tool – and if you’re a keen angler, then why not make it one that’s useful for fishing?
What Tools Should Be Included for Fishing?
Since that’s a very good place to start, let’s cover what’s essential for anglers when it comes to choosing a good fishing multi tool – and what you can probably do without.
Fishing Pliers
A pair of good quality fishing pliers is an essential part of a multi tool – as it’s arguably the item you will use the most when you’re out there.
Look for pliers that have a long nose – which is ideal for removing hooks and getting into hard-to-reach areas down a fish gullet.
Pliers that have crimping jaws are a must for attaching weights, crimping and pressing leads, and splitting shot. Having a fish line cutter is also a great addition here, and you might find that one is usually built-in.
Finally, check for pliers that have a split ring nose – which is very useful for when you’re setting up your rigs, jigs, and other bait.
Line Cutters
As mentioned, fishing line cutters can be built into the nose of the fishing pliers, but sometimes they might feature elsewhere on the multi tool.
Either way, it’s worth including them here, as they are an essential part of any fishing kit, and having them as part of an all-in-one tool is very useful.
Look for line cutters that are capable of snipping even the toughest braids – and you should be good to go with any type of line. Tungsten carbide is the preferred material here for maximum strength, durability, and effectiveness.
Knife Blades
Multipurpose fishing tools should really come with at least one blade, which should have a nice, keen, razor-sharp edge.
Serrated and/or curved blades can be handy for a variety of uses in the field and on the water, including cleaning fish, and cutting rope or wood if required.
However, a multi tool isn’t ever going to be as good as a dedicated fillet knife, so follow that link for some great examples if that’s what you need to use it for.
Fish Scaler
Some fishing multi tools come with a serrated, smooth-edged fish scaler, which is used to remove fish scales before you cook up a storm over the campfire.
While not necessarily essential, it’s a good tool to have, especially if you want to clean a fish while you’re out in the field or on the water.
Check out the video below for a great guide on how to scale, gut, and fillet a fish.
Hook Remover
An extremely useful tool for anglers, a dedicated hook remover will help you safely and quickly remove a hook from a fish’s mouth.
It’s an important tool to have, as even if you’re not practicing catch and release, you should be minimizing harm as much as possible.
And that includes to yourself – so you should seriously consider wearing a pair of good quality fishing gloves to keep yourself protected when handling sharp objects – and the slippery beast itself.
Removing a hook fast, safely, and smoothly will be that much easier with the right tool – so keep a look out for one – or have decent pliers to do the same job.
Files
If you need something sharpened – a file is the way to go. This is a very useful addition to your fishing multi tool, as it will ensure your hooks stay in their best condition while you’re on the go.
Dull hooks aren’t going to snag you that monster catch, so having a file to hand will keep them super sharp as and when required.
Scissors
If your fishing multi tool doesn’t come with a line cutter, then it sure a heck better come with some scissors.
More often than not, you’ll find a decent tool comes with both.
Either way, this feature is another useful item to have as part of the collection – even if they’re probably not going to be as good as a dedicated pair of fishing scissors.
Philips and Flathead Screwdrivers
It doesn’t take much to add these two practical additions to a multi tool, and you’ll nearly always find them ingeniously incorporated at the end of another instrument.
Sometimes, you might not even know they’re there.
For fishing, they can be invaluable if you need to take a reel apart, or for any general purpose repairs you might need to make on other tools and equipment when you’re on your trip.
Highly recommended as part of any multi tool – fishing or otherwise.
Jig Cleaner/Awl/General Tool
Having an awl is a great option on your fishing multi tool, as it can be called upon for literally hundreds of uses.
Whether you’re cleaning the paint out of jig eyelets, punching holes in just about anything, or even scraping the muck from your fingernails – having a sharp, all-purpose point to hand will be invaluable to any angler or outdoor person.
Extra Tools
Whether it’s a dedicated fishing tool or not, you’ll find that many products in this class will come with a variety of additional features that you might find useful.
Bottle and can openers are great if you’re camping, measuring tapes and scales are ideal for proving the size and weight of your catch.
Some tools even have a built-in flashlight, although one of these dedicated fishing headlamps would be better if you enjoy angling in darker conditions.
Top tip – while this list might not be exhaustive and not every tool is necessary, it’s highly recommended you make a checklist of what is essential to you, and what you’re going to get the most use out of.
Ease of Use
Any tool worth using should be easy-to-use. However, that’s not always the case when it comes to multi tools.
We’ve all had experiences of individual tools being difficult to pull out or access, they don’t quite work, and/or they stick fast and are impossible to get back in for storage.
Tools you can operate with one hand are usually preferred by anglers – and spring-loaded pliers are the most practical for fishing purposes.
Each feature of a multi tool should operate smoothly, without the need to use force. Look for products that confirm this in reviews, or watch YouTube videos to get a full demonstration.
Below, you’ll find an example review of one of my favorite fishing multi tools, the Victorinox Fisherman.
Durability
Even if the weather is perfect, working this close to water, salt or otherwise, has a tendency to mess up our stuff.
That’s why you need to choose tools that are built-to-last and have the ability to handle tough conditions.
The best saltwater fishing multi tool will be treated with protective coatings, and/or designed to resist corrosion and rust.
Look for tools that specifically mention this if you’re at all concerned with a product’s longevity.
Either way, you should always be cleaning your gear with freshwater as soon as you’re done.
And don’t forget you also need protection from the elements, so choose the best wet weather fishing gear available.
Storage/Portability
One of the huge plus points of using a fishing multi tool is the fact that it will save you a ton of space in your tackle box.
That said, you still want to make sure it’s not too bulky for your needs, and is easy to store and transport when required.
Look for tools that come with lanyards and/or storage pouches that will protect the product when not in use – and keep it close to hand in order to prevent it falling out of your pocket and being lost forever.
Alternatively, pick up one of these fashionable and practical fishing vests for some great storage solutions for fishing gear and tackle you need to keep in arms reach when you’re on the water.
Cost
You can spend as much or as little as you like on a fishing multi tool, as prices start at around $12 and can reach upwards of $100.
Remember though, you’re saving a lot of money on purchasing a bunch of different tools, so I would recommend spending a little more to get something that will really last.
FAQs
What is a fishing multitool?
A multitool is a single tool that offers multiple functions. The classic example is a Swiss Army knife.
A fishing multitool is effectively the same thing, but that has plenty of features included that are dedicated toward fishing – such as a fish scaler, hook remover, line cutter, and measuring tape.
What is the best fishing multitool?
While this will largely come down to personal preference, I would say the best fishing multitool is this Gerber Gear option, closely followed by this Berkley multitool.
But it really depends on your own needs, and what features you’re going to find most useful for your style of fishing.
Can I use a multitool for fishing?
You certainly can. It doesn’t necessarily have to offer dedicated fishing features, as even the most basic multitool will provide some useful tricks for when you’re on the water/in the field.
Which Leatherman is best for fishing?
I would say the Wave is the best Leatherman for fishing – but I’m biased because I own one!
What is the best multipurpose tool?
There are a lot of great options out there, but I would say as all-round, top-quality multitools, Leatherman’s products are going to take some beating.
I believe that SOG are the “knife maker of choice” for the Navy SEALs – but I’m not a Navy SEAL, so don’t quote me on that!
Maybe something like the SOG Q4 might be part of a military loadout?
Summary
Save yourself money and space with the best fishing multi tools on the market, and you’ll never have a needlessly cluttered tackle box again.
Let me know which product you’ve gone for and why in the comments below.
Tight lines, and happy fishing!