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10 Best Fillet Knives 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Mercer Culinary M23860 Millennia Black Handle, 8.5-Inch Narrow, Fillet Knife

The Mercer Culinary M23860 Millennia 8.5-Inch Narrow Fillet Knife stands out primarily for its quality construction and ergonomic design. The blade is made from high-carbon Japanese steel, which ensures long-lasting sharpness and makes it easier to maintain. This is excellent for those who need a reliable knife that stays sharp and is easy to care for. The 8.5-inch blade length is suitable for filleting various types of meat, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen tools.

The blade is narrow and has a plain edge, which is ideal for precise cuts and removing flesh from bones efficiently. The handle is made from Santoprene and features textured finger points, providing a non-slip grip that enhances safety and comfort during use. The ergonomic design also ensures durability, making it well-suited for both professional chefs and home cooking enthusiasts.

On the downside, the knife is not dishwasher safe, which means it requires careful hand washing to maintain its performance and longevity. Additionally, while the knife is designed to be durable, the stamped construction might not be as robust as forged knives. However, this is a minor drawback considering the knife's performance and price point. It also comes with a limited lifetime warranty, adding an extra layer of assurance for buyers. In summary, the Mercer Culinary M23860 Millennia Fillet Knife is a solid choice for anyone in need of a dependable, sharp, and comfortably designed fillet knife. Its high-carbon steel blade and ergonomic handle make it well-suited for both professional and home kitchens, though it requires proper hand washing to maintain its quality.

#2

Mercer Culinary M22807 Millennia Black Handle, 7-Inch Flexible, Fillet Knife

Rating
9.6
Blade Material
Blade Flexibility
Handle Material

Most important from
180 reviews

Blade Material
The blade maintains its edge well and resists rust, standing up to frequent use without compromising performance.
Blade Flexibility
Its flexible blade is perfectly suited for delicate filleting, following the contours of fish smoothly for clean cuts.
Handle Material
The ergonomic Santoprene handle provides a secure, comfortable grip that reduces slipping even when wet.
Edge Type
The knife delivers exceptional sharpness right out of the box, making precise filleting effortless.

The Mercer Culinary M22807 Millennia is a 7-inch fillet knife designed for precision and ease when removing flesh from bones. Its blade is made from high-carbon Japanese steel, which helps it stay sharp longer and makes edge maintenance easier. The 7-inch blade length is a good balance—long enough for flexibility yet manageable for detailed filleting work. This knife features a flexible blade, ideal for following the curves of fish or meat for cleaner cuts.

The handle is made of Santoprene, a soft but durable material that offers a comfortable grip. It has textured finger points to reduce slipping, adding safety and control, especially when working with wet hands. This ergonomic design benefits both home cooks and professionals who spend time filleting. The blade edge is plain, meaning it’s smooth and sharp, perfect for delicate slicing without tearing the meat. The manufacturer advises hand washing to keep its quality intact and avoid dishwasher use.

The blade is stamped rather than forged, which may not provide the same weight or durability as forged blades but keeps the knife lighter and easier to handle. While excellent for filleting, it is not designed for heavier chopping or cutting through bones. This Mercer Culinary fillet knife suits anyone looking for a reliable, sharp, and comfortable tool for filleting tasks, with its flexibility, good blade length, and secure handle design making it effective for both beginners and experienced users.

Rating
9.6
Blade Material
Blade Flexibility
Handle Material

Most important from
180 reviews

Blade Material
The blade maintains its edge well and resists rust, standing up to frequent use without compromising performance.
Blade Flexibility
Its flexible blade is perfectly suited for delicate filleting, following the contours of fish smoothly for clean cuts.
Handle Material
The ergonomic Santoprene handle provides a secure, comfortable grip that reduces slipping even when wet.
Edge Type
The knife delivers exceptional sharpness right out of the box, making precise filleting effortless.

Buying Guide for the Best Fillet Knives

Choosing the right fillet knife can make a significant difference in your kitchen, especially if you frequently prepare fish or other delicate meats. A good fillet knife should be sharp, flexible, and comfortable to use. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a fillet knife that best fits your needs.
Blade MaterialThe blade material of a fillet knife is crucial as it affects the knife's sharpness, durability, and resistance to corrosion. Common materials include stainless steel, high-carbon steel, and ceramic. Stainless steel is popular for its rust resistance and ease of maintenance, making it a good all-around choice. High-carbon steel is known for its sharpness and edge retention but requires more care to prevent rust. Ceramic blades are extremely sharp and rust-proof but can be brittle. Choose a material based on your maintenance preference and how often you use the knife.
Blade LengthBlade length determines the knife's versatility and ease of use. Fillet knives typically range from 6 to 12 inches. Shorter blades (6-7 inches) offer better control and are ideal for smaller fish or precise cuts. Medium blades (8-9 inches) provide a balance between control and versatility, suitable for a variety of fish sizes. Longer blades (10-12 inches) are best for larger fish and making long, smooth cuts. Consider the size of the fish you usually prepare and your comfort level with handling different blade lengths.
Blade FlexibilityFlexibility is a key feature of fillet knives, allowing the blade to bend and maneuver around bones and skin. Flexible blades are excellent for delicate tasks and provide better control for precise cuts. Stiffer blades are more durable and better suited for larger, tougher fish. If you often work with small, delicate fish, a highly flexible blade is ideal. For larger or tougher fish, a stiffer blade may be more appropriate.
Handle MaterialThe handle material affects the knife's comfort, grip, and durability. Common handle materials include wood, plastic, and rubber. Wood handles offer a traditional look and feel but may require more maintenance to prevent damage from moisture. Plastic handles are durable and easy to clean but may not provide the best grip when wet. Rubber handles offer excellent grip and comfort, especially when wet, making them a popular choice for fillet knives. Choose a handle material that feels comfortable in your hand and suits your working conditions.
Handle DesignThe design of the handle impacts the knife's ergonomics and ease of use. Look for a handle that fits comfortably in your hand and provides a secure grip. Ergonomic designs with contours and non-slip textures can reduce hand fatigue and improve control. Some handles also feature finger guards for added safety. Consider how the knife feels in your hand and whether the design supports your cutting style and comfort.
Edge TypeThe edge type of a fillet knife can affect its cutting performance. Most fillet knives have a straight edge, which is ideal for making clean, precise cuts. Some knives may have a serrated edge, which can be useful for cutting through tougher skin or scales. However, serrated edges are less common for fillet knives. Choose an edge type based on the type of fish you typically prepare and your preference for cutting style.

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