Any angler will tell you, it’s important to have the right tools to make the experience more enjoyable and successful. One tool that should not be overlooked is a good pair of fishing pliers. We’ll discuss the different types of pliers and list the reasons you should have a pair of fishing pliers.
Types of pliers
There are several types of fishing pliers available on the market, each designed for different tasks and purposes. Here are some of the most common types of fishing pliers:
Standard Pliers
These are the most basic type of fishing pliers, with a simple design that includes jaws for gripping and cutting, and handles for ease of use. They are suitable for general-purpose fishing tasks such as removing hooks, crimping split shot weights, and cutting lines.
Needle Nose Pliers
These pliers are long and thin, with a pointed tip that allows for precise work. They are ideal for removing hooks from deep inside a fish’s mouth, and for working with small lures and tackle.
Braid Cutters
These aren’t actually pliers, but the perform one of the big tasks that pliers do: cutting line. Braided fishing line can be difficult to cut with standard pliers or scissors. Braid cutters are designed with specialized blades that can easily cut through braided line without fraying or damaging it.
Why you should own fishing pliers
As you can tell, we highly recommend a good pair of fishing pliers. Here are their main uses.
Easy hook removal
If you have ever been fishing, you know how difficult it can be to remove a hook from a fish’s mouth. Fishing pliers make this task much easier (and safer!). They allow you to grip the hook and twist it out without harming the fish or getting your fingers too close to its sharp teeth.
Cutting line
Fishing pliers are also useful for cutting fishing line. This is especially important if you need to quickly cut a tangled line or if you need to cut a line that has become wrapped around a rock or other obstacle.
Crimping
If you are using a fishing rig that requires crimping, fishing pliers are essential. They allow you to crimp the line tightly and securely, ensuring that your rig stays in place and doesn’t come apart when you are reeling in a fish.
Splitting rings
Some fishing lures and rigs require you to use split rings to attach them to your line. Splitting rings can be difficult to open and close with your fingers alone. Fishing pliers with split ring pliers built-in make this task much easier.
Versatility
Fishing pliers are versatile tools that can be used for a variety of other tasks as well. They can be used for opening and closing snap swivels, tightening knots, and even cutting other types of lines like rope or wire.
Convenience
Fishing pliers often come with a sheath and lanyard to add convenience and functionality. Thel anyard keeps your pliers handy and prevents them from getting dropped in the water. A sheath provides a safe and secure place to store your fishing pliers when they are not in use.
Saltwater vs Freshwater Pliers
When it comes to fishing pliers, there are specific differences between saltwater and freshwater pliers, and it’s important to choose the right pliers for your type of fishing. The key difference between saltwater and freshwater pliers is the material.
The best saltwater pliers are typically made from materials that are resistant to corrosion, such as aluminum or stainless steel, because saltwater can cause metal to rust and corrode quickly. Freshwater pliers can be made from a wider variety of materials, including carbon steel, which is not as resistant to corrosion as aluminum or stainless steel.
Hello! My name is Tim and I’ve been fishing for over 30 years. I’ve learned a lot about fishing during that time and I love sharing that knowledge with others. I’m also a member of the International Game Fish Association (IGFA). Thanks for checking out the site!