8 Best Fillet Knives to Have in Your Italian Kitchen

It doesn’t matter if you are cooking for yourself or a large party; having the right best fillet knives to cut through meat and fish can make all the difference in how well your dishes turn out. If you’re an Italian chef, you know that a good fillet knife is one of the most important tools in your kitchen. 

best fillet knives

This fillet knives review will help guide you on what fillet knives to buy and why they are so great! We have included nine different types of knives that we think every Italian kitchen should have. They range from cheap to expensive, but each has unique features that make it worth buying. So read on to learn more about these fantastic products.

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Why Owning a Good Fillet Knife is Essential

There is a reason why most chefs will tell you that fillet knives are their favorite. These knives help them cut through meats and fish like butter, leaving no bones or skin behind. It is this ease of cutting that makes cooking so much more fun.

Not only do fillet knives make cooking easier, but they also make it safer. When you are cutting through meat and fish, you don’t want to be using a dull blade that might slip and hurt you. 

These knives are perfect for cutting through tough meats without any strain on your part, allowing you to make cuts in one single swipe.

Our Top Pick

If you’re looking for a good fillet knife, we recommend the BUBBA Li-Ion Cordless Electric Fillet Knife from bubba fillet knives. This knife comes with everything you need to get started in the kitchen and more! It features an electric blade that makes cutting through meats and Italian fish easy and smooth. The best part is that it is cordless, so you don’t have to worry about being too close to the wall.

Top Selling Fillet Knives at a Glance

Your Fillet Knife Shopping Guide

Japanese vs. German

When it comes to fillet knives, there are two types that you will see most often: Japanese and German. While these names make them sound like they have a big difference in quality, that is not always the case. Both knives are usually made from steel with high carbon content, and both are used to fillet meat.

The most significant difference that you will find between these knives is how the steel was created. German blades are made by heating the metal to a high temperature. This allows the edge to be shaped into one solid piece of steel without gaps, creating an incredibly sharp blade with much power.

On the other hand, the Japanese blades are done by heating steel and folding it over itself, causing the metal to create a solid bond throughout the edge. This is because you can get more of these layers in a Japanese knife, making it far more robust than a German blade.

However, the Japanese blades are not as sharp since they do not have one solid piece of steel running through them. You will also find that they are less sturdy when cutting through meat, which is why the Germans are the preferred knives for chefs.

Manual vs. Electric

When it comes to fillet knives, you will also choose between manual and electric knives. While these two types of knives will have a lot of differences, you can use both in the kitchen.

The most significant difference between these two knives is going to be how they are powered. Manual knives require you to not only use your hands to power them as you cut, but you will also have to rely on the strength in your arms to make sure you can cut meat or fish.

On the other hand, electric knives are powered by electricity, which means they will have more strength. This will make it a lot easier to cut through meat and fish, though you do have to worry about the cord getting in your way from time to time.

The most significant benefit of manual knives is that they will be a lot cheaper than an electric knife, though there is a wide range in the price of both manual and electric knives. On the other hand, you can easily find a great quality electric knife that will be able to cut through just about any meat or fish, though you may have to spend a bit more money.

Blade Flexibility and Size

The last thing that you are going to find in a fillet knife is the flexibility of the blade. Most knives will either have a flexible blade or a stiff blade, though you can also find knives with both. 

Flexible blades will be easier for beginners to learn how to use, though stiff blades will be better for seasoned professionals.

When looking at the flexibility of a fillet knife, you will also have to consider the size. You will find that the most flexible blades will be a little more compact, which makes it a lot easier to get into tight areas. These knives are also great for people with smaller hands, though you will want a stiffer blade if you have larger hands.

Blade Features and Material

When you are looking for a fillet knife, you will find that most of them have blades that range from six to twelve inches. The size of the edge will largely depend on what you are using it for, though a twelve-inch blade will be your best option if you want to fillet a large fish of meat.

The material used in flexible blades will be of utmost importance since you will want a knife that can stand up against both fish bones and meat. You will find that most of these knives are made out of stainless steel, though they can also be made out of a variety of other materials.

It would be best to choose a blade that will stand up against what you are cutting, especially since the bones in fish tend to break most blades. Stainless steel will be your best bet, though they are also more expensive than most other blades. 

You can get away with using carbon steel for fish that is not too tough, though it is best to stick with stainless steel when dealing with a larger fish.

Full vs. Partial Tang

Another thing that you will find with flexible blades is that they can be full tang or partial tang. A full tang blade will be more durable, though a partial tang blade will be a lot lighter. While this may not seem too big of a difference, it will make a big difference in your filleting experience.

The most significant difference between these two knives is the price, largely dependent on the features and materials used. You will find that full tang knives tend to be a lot more expensive, though you would only benefit from the extra money if you plan on doing a lot of heavy-duty filleting.

Handle Features

One of the most overlooked aspects of fillet knives is the material of the handle. While you would think this is unimportant, it can make a huge difference in your filleting experience. The most common material for handles is wood, though there are also plastic and rubber options available.

You will find that wooden handles will be the best option, though they can come at a high price. You could also get away with using a plastic or rubber handle if you do not want to spend too much money, though the difference in quality will be noticeable.

Color

The last thing that you are going to find with fillet knives is the color of the handle. While some colors may seem silly, they can end up making a huge difference in your filleting experience. If you plan on filleting only fish, then any color is fine; however, if you plan on filleting a variety of meat and fish, then you should opt for a knife with a bright color.

This will end up making it easier to identify which knives are for each type of meat or fish, which is necessary if you deal with a variety of them frequently.

Now that you know a little more about the various features of flexible fillet knives, you should find one with all the features you need. If you plan on doing a lot of heavy-duty filleting, then it is best to go with a full tang knife; however, a partial tang knife should be sufficient if you plan on doing light-duty work. 

Since the handle is such an essential part of your filleting experience, you should look for a wooden handle coated in rubber. If the color of your knife does not matter to you, you should get a brightly colored knife that will stand out.

The Best Fillet Knives Reviewed

Now that you know why owning a fillet knife is important let’s get on to the knives themselves. The list below is of the best fillet knives on the market today. Of course, they vary in price, but all are great choices depending on your budget and needs.

BUBBA Li-Ion Cordless Electric Fillet Knife with Non-Slip Grip Handle, 4 Ti-Nitride S.S. Coated Non-Stick Reciprocating Blades, Charger, and Case for Fishing (Best Overall Fillet Knife)

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Amazon Choice Award: in Electric Knives by BUBBA

  • Blade Material: Stainless Steel   
  • Length of blade: 8.5”
  • Star rating out of 5: 5
  • Type of knife: Electric
  • Warranty: Lifetime

The BUBBA cordless electric fillet knife is designed to be used in the kitchen and for camping. It’s powered by a lithium-ion battery that’s rechargeable. It has four titanium nitride-coated non-stick blades, a slip-resistant handle for firm grip, and easy cleaning for thorough hygienic sanitization.

This fillet knife is made of stainless steel blades with titanium nitride coating that provides exceptional sharpness and corrosion resistance. In addition, the edges are heat-treated for durability to last a lifetime, while the ergonomic handle ensures a non-slip grip for safety.

It is the best fillet knife for campers, hunters, and anglers looking to save time prepping their wild game. The fillet knife comes with a charger and electric cord.

You can use it to cut fish, poultry, meats, and vegetables without any effort. 

Pros

  • The handle offers an extraordinarily comfortable non-slip grip
  • It is a very versatile knife that delivers a clean and smooth cut
  • It is easy to use and has a long battery life

Cons 

  • The blades need to be removed and cleaned carefully

Bubba Tapered Flex Fillet Fishing Knife and Tapered Flex Fillet Knife (Best Multi-Use Fillet Knife)

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  • Blade Material:  Stainless Steel
  • Length of blade: 13”
  • Star rating out of 5: 4.8
  • Type of Knife: Electric  

If you want a variety of uses from your fillet knife, then the Bubba Tapered Flex Fillet Knife is a great option. It comes with a non-slip handle and tapered blades that make it easy to fillet fish, meat, and other food items with ease.

This set comes with a Bubba Tapered Flex Fillet Knife and a flexible filleting knife. These knives have tapered blades that are perfect for filleting all types of meat, including fish. They are also great for slicing fresh vegetables, fruits, and other food items.

Pros

  • The blades are very flexible, allowing for easy filleting 
  • They are also very sharp and durable

Cons

  • If kept in the sheath when not in use, the blades can become dull

KastKing Fillet Knife, Razor Sharp G4116 German Stainless-Steel Blade 5″ – 9″, Professional Level Knives for Filleting and Boning, Non-Slip Handles, Includes Protective Sheath. (Best Flexible Fillet Knife)

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Amazon Choice Award: in Fishing Filet & Bait Knives by KastKing

  • Handle Material: Bone 
  • Length of blade: 8”
  • Star rating out of 5: 4.5
  • Type of knife: Manual

The KastKing Fillet Knife is a professional-level knife with an ergonomic handle and a German stainless steel blade. In addition, it comes with a sheath for safe storage, making it the best fillet knife for professional chefs and amateurs.

The easy-grip handle is designed to reduce fatigue, while the stainless steel blades ensure a smooth and precise filleting experience.

It can be used to cut various fish, including salmon, trout, and other types. It can even be used to cut vegetables, boneless meats, and other items.

The handle is comfortable to grip, making the knife easy to use for extended periods.

Pros 

  • The blades are very sharp, making it easy to fillet with precision
  • The ergonomic handle makes it comfortable to hold

Cons

  • It is very flexible, which makes it challenging to handle at times      

Kershaw Clearwater 9-In Fillet Knife (1259X) Fixed 420J2 High-Performance Stainless Steel Blade with Satin Finish, Black Textured Co-Polymer Handle with Neon-Green Detail and Included Sheath; 3.8 OZ (Best Large Fish Fillet Knife)

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  • Blade Material: Stainless steel
  • Length of blade: 9”
  • Star rating out of 5: 4.5
  • Type of knife: Manual

The Kershaw Clearwater Fillet Knife has a black co-polymer handle with neon green detail and a satin finish 420J2 stainless steel blade. The knife has a non-slip rubberized grip and comes with a sheath for safe storage and transportation. 

It is the best fillet knife for aquatic professionals. You can use it to cut fish, poultry, meat, and other food items.

Pros 

  • It is also quick and easy to clean.
  • The grip is very comfortable and provides a firm hold on the blade.
  • This fillet knife is very sharp, has a durable blade, and also comes with a strap for easy storage

Cons 

  • The leather holster is not sturdy enough to support the knife while hanging

KastKing Folding Fillet/Fishing/Camping/Hunting Knife, Razor Sharp G4116 German Stainless-Steel Blade, Non-Slip Handles, 13 ½ inch Overall Length, only 7 ½ inch Folded, Includes Sheath (Best Folding Fillet Knife)

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  • Blade Material: Stainless Steel
  • Handle material: Thermoplastic Elastomers
  • Length of blade: 13.5”
  • Star rating out of 5: 4.2
  • Type of knife: Manual

The KastKing Folding Fillet/Fishing/Camping/Hunting Knife has a folding design, making it one of the smallest fillet knives available.  The knife has an ergonomic handle and a German stainless steel blade that is easy to clean. 

It is designed with an easy-to-use thumb stud for one-handed operation and comes with a safety lock rod.  It also comes with a sheath for safe storage and transportation.

It can be used to cut fish, marrow bones, and other items. It is good in cutting both thin and thick fillets. 

Pros 

  • The knife is very sharp and can easily fillet any type of meat
  • It is sturdy and comes with a protective sheath for safe storage

Cons 

  • The blade gets dull if kept in the sheath for too long     

Calamus Fishing Fillet Knife And Bait Knives, German G4116 Stainless-Steel Blades with Corrosion Resistant Coating, Non-Slip Handles, Protective Nylon Sheath, Perfect For Fresh Or Saltwater. (Best Saltwater Fillet Knife)

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  • Handle Material: Rubber 
  • Blade material: Stainless Steel 
  • Length of blade: 7”
  • Star rating out of 5: 4.will1
  • Type of knife: Manual

The Calamus Fishing Fillet Knife has a folding design and is made of German G4116 stainless steel. It has an anti-slip handle that prevents the blade from slipping, while the sheath helps keep it safe and clean for future use. 

It includes a protective nylon sheath with a belt loop, making it the best fillet knife for camping. In addition, it has a sharp blade that is resistant to corrosion and comes with an ergonomic handle that reduces fatigue while you work.

You can use it to cut and fillet any type of meat. 

Pros 

  • The blade is very sharp and easy to use
  • The knife is lightweight and easy to carry around
  • The blade does not rust easily and remains sharp even after multiple uses

Cons

  • The belt strap is not sturdy enough

Rapala4 Soft Grip Fillet / Single Stage Sharpener / Sheath (Best Grip Fillet Knife)

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  • Blade material:  Stainless Steel
  • Length of blade: 7” 
  • Star rating out of 5: 4
  • Type of knife: Manual

The Rapala4 Fillet Knife has a knurled handle, making it easy to grip and use. It comes with a sheath for the safe storage of the knife. The sharpener has ceramic rods that are not made of steel or other metals, making it safe for use on all types of fillet knives. 

It is specially designed to provide a single stage of filleting with perfect results. It can also be used to sharpen both serrated and fine edge blades without damaging the blade surface.

Pros 

  • The knife is easy to use and has a very sharp blade
  • The knife is sturdy and can be used for long periods without making your hand tired or causing blisters
  • It is lightweight, making it easy to carry around
  • The handle is ergonomic and reduces fatigue while working

Cons 

  • It may feel too bulky for people with small hands      

The Serious Catch 7-In Fish Fillet Knife With Sheath – Premium German High-Carbon Steel – Leather Sheath Ideal for Indoors and Outdoors – Use to Fillet Fish and Meat (Best Fillet Knife for Fish)

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  • Blade Material: Stainless Steel
  • Length of blade: 7”
  • Star rating out of 5: 4
  • Type of knife: Manual

The Serious Catch 7-In Fish Fillet Knife is made in China and comes with a protective leather sheath. In addition, it has a German high carbon steel blade that can be used to fillet fish and meat. 

It has an easy-grip handle that reduces fatigue while you work. The high carbon steel blade is very sharp and comes with a riveted wooden handle.

It has an ergonomic design that can cut through bones without any trouble. It is the best fillet knife for camping and fishing, making it one of the best fillet knives available today. 

Pros 

  • The knife is lightweight, making it easy to carry around
  • It has an ergonomic design that reduces fatigue while you use the knife for filleting or boning
  • The blade is long-lasting and does not rust easily

Cons 

  • It may become dull if kept in the sheath for too long
  • The blade may become worn with time, especially if you are using it every day

FAQs on Fillet Knives

What is the difference between a boning and a fillet knife?

The main difference between a fillet and a boning knife is the way they are manufactured. A fillet knife has a flexible blade that makes it easy to use on smaller or thinner meat items such as fish or poultry, while a boning knife has a stiffer blade and is usually more durable.

What size fillet knife should I buy?

The best fillet knife for larger meat items will differ from the knives you need to use on smaller items. If you buy a fillet knife for household use, it is usually safe to buy the largest size that will fit your hand comfortably. This way, you can easily cut through large pieces of meat without much trouble.

How do you use a fillet knife on fish?

Most fillet knives are designed for use on both meat and fish. To use a fillet knife on fish, hold the head firmly against the cutting board with your free hand to steady it. 

Make sure that your hands are clean before you begin, then insert the tip of the knife into the body just behind the gills where the main blood vessel starts. Cut the body open and remove the insides by pulling it out with your hand. Then just slice up the fillets as you would for any other type of meat.

How do I use an electric fillet knife?

Most electric fillet knives work similarly to handheld knives. Just turn the power on and hold it against your meat or fish, then move it forward in a smooth motion while applying even pressure for the best results.

How often do you need to sharpen a fillet knife?

You can usually sharpen your fillet knife using a steel rod or knife sharpener every time you use it. However, if the blade becomes dull, it may need to be sharpened less frequently.

Taking Care of Your Fillet Knives

  1. Store your fillet knives in a safe place and keep them away from children.
  2. Do not wash your fillet knives with soapy water, as the blade might rust or corrode if exposed to soap particles for too long. Rinse it thoroughly under clean running water after use instead.
  3. Wash your fillet knives by hand and dry them with a towel before putting them in a sheath or wrapping them up for storage.
  4. Do not clean your fillet knives using a dishwasher. The blades may warp or rust if exposed to high heat, which reduces their lifespan significantly.
  5. When you are done using your fillet knife, always put it back in its sheath for safekeeping.
  6. Do not store your knives with the blade facing downwards or sideways; it can lead to damage and accidents.

Key Highlights

If you are looking for a fillet knife, BUBBA Li-Ion Cordless Electric Fillet Knife with Non-Slip Grip Handle is an excellent choice. This fillet knife comes with a non-slip grip handle for comfortable use, four titanium nitride coated self-sharpening blades, and a charger and case to keep all your accessories in one place. 

The blades are rust-resistant stainless steel that will not corrode or rust even if exposed to water.

A fillet knife is an essential tool for any kitchen, and finding the right knife can be a long process of trial and error if you do not know what to look for in a good blade. With our guide, however, buying your next fillet knife should be much easier.