8 Best Fillet Knives for Perch (2026 Guide)

Butter-smooth precision meets heirloom-grade craftsmanship in the HOSHANHO 7-inch fillet knife, a standout performer for anglers who demand razor-sharp control and long-term durability. Built around a Japanese 10Cr15CoMoV high-carbon steel core hardened to HRC 62, this blade delivers exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance—critical when filleting perch with delicate flesh that tears easily. The 15° double-bevel edge, hand-polished by skilled bladesmiths, slices through skin and bone with surgical accuracy, while the precision-tapered tip excels at intricate tasks like nerve removal or skinning without shredding. For anyone tired of dulling blades or slippery grips, this knife solves both with flexible agility and a secure, ergonomic red sandalwood handle.

In real-world testing, the HOSHANHO glides effortlessly through perch, separating fillets cleanly in just a few strokes thanks to its lightweight, balanced design and 7-inch flexible blade. The natural red sandalwood handle remains comfortable even after extended use, resisting moisture and preventing hand fatigue—a major plus for multi-catch days. It handles freshwater and mild saltwater exposure well, though prolonged immersion requires prompt drying to maintain longevity. While not dishwasher-safe (like all premium knives), it cleans easily by hand and retains its sharpness longer than most in its class. However, its hardened steel, while durable, can be slightly more brittle than softer alloys if misused on frozen fish or hard bones.

Positioned between pro-grade tools and budget picks, the HOSHANHO outperforms many mid-tier models with its hand-finished blade and premium materials, making it a strong rival to the Cutluxe Artisan Series. It offers better edge geometry and exotic wood grip than the Mercer Ultimate White, though without a lifetime warranty. Ideal for serious home cooks and weekend anglers who value precision and elegance, it’s perfect for those upgrading from entry-level knives. It delivers refined performance and artisanal feel that surpasses what you’d expect at its price point when compared to the Queego or Morakniv options.

Value-packed and ready for action, the Queego 7-inch fillet knife is a standout for anglers who want a complete filleting kit without spending heavily. Its G4116 German stainless steel blade is factory-sharp and features a Teflon coating that significantly boosts corrosion resistance—a smart touch for perch fishing near lakes or rivers where rust is a constant threat. The ultra-sharp, flexible blade cuts smoothly through delicate fish flesh, while the scaly-textured polymer handle ensures a slip-proof grip even with wet or bloody hands, solving one of the most frustrating issues in outdoor filleting.

In practical use, the Queego handles perch with confidence, offering enough flex to follow the backbone and remove fillets cleanly. The Teflon coating not only resists stains and odors but also reduces drag during slicing, making each cut more efficient. Paired with the included two-stage ceramic sharpener, this knife stays serviceable in the field—ideal for weekend trips where access to tools is limited. The vented nylon sheath promotes drying and prevents moisture buildup, further protecting the blade. However, while the steel is decent, it doesn’t match the edge retention of Japanese or vanadium alloys, requiring more attention over time.

Compared to the Mercer Ultimate White, the Queego wins hands-down by including a sharpener and sheath—two essentials often sold separately. It’s less refined than the HOSHANHO or Cutluxe but offers better real-world utility for the price. For novice anglers or families starting their fishing gear collection, this knife delivers maximum bang with minimal investment. It’s not built for decades of daily use, but as a well-rounded starter kit, it outperforms rivals in included accessories and corrosion defense.

Corrosion resistance redefined, the Morakniv Companion 6.1-inch fillet knife is a minimalist marvel engineered for harsh, wet environments where rust kills most blades. At its heart lies Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel—a Scandinavian-grade alloy known for razor-sharpness, toughness, and exceptional rust resistance—making it ideal for perch anglers who fish in humid or brackish conditions. The 6.1-inch blade is slightly shorter than standard, but its slim profile and high hardness allow for precise, agile cuts along delicate fish bones. Paired with a soft-grip polymer handle, it stays secure even with soapy or bloody hands.

Field testing confirms its reputation: the blade resists pitting after repeated exposure to water and fish acids, and it sharpens back easily when dulled. The high-friction handle offers excellent control and includes a finger guard for safety during push cuts—crucial when working on a rocking boat. The lightweight design (just 3.5 oz with sheath) makes it easy to carry, and the belt-clip sheath ensures quick access. However, the shorter blade length means more passes when filleting larger perch, and the 0.07-inch thickness reduces flexibility slightly compared to ultra-thin competitors.

Against the KastKing or HOSHANHO, the Morakniv sacrifices length and luxury for rugged simplicity and marine-grade resilience. It’s not as feature-rich, but it excels where it matters: surviving wet, salty conditions without flinching. Perfect for backpackers, kayakers, or anglers who prioritize lightweight reliability, it’s a trusted companion for quick cleanings on the go. With better corrosion defense than most, it stands as the ultimate low-maintenance blade for wet environments.

Raw power meets cordless freedom in the WORKPRO 12V electric fillet knife, a heavy-duty beast designed for anglers tackling multiple large fish in one session. With 8-inch flexible and 10-inch stiff blades, it powers through thick-skinned perch, ocean rockfish, or even tuna with minimal effort—effortless cutting that eliminates hand fatigue during marathon filleting. The dual 2.0Ah lithium-ion batteries offer up to 2 hours of continuous runtime, and the 1-hour quick charger keeps you moving without downtime. This is filleting reimagined for volume and speed.

In real-world use, the WORKPRO excels when processing multiple perch or mixed catches. The reciprocating blades slice through flesh like butter, and the non-slip rubberized handle maintains control even with greasy hands. Swapping blades takes seconds, letting you switch between delicate and tough jobs seamlessly. The safety lock prevents accidental starts, and the storage case organizes everything neatly for transport. However, it’s overkill for single small fish, and the blade motion can tear delicate fillets if not handled carefully.

Versus the HOSHANHO or Cutluxe, this isn’t about finesse—it’s about throughput and endurance. It’s heavier and louder, but for tournament anglers, guides, or families with big hauls, it’s unmatched in productivity. While manual knives win for precision on perch, this one dominates when volume, speed, and ease matter most. With dual batteries and dual blades, it offers the most comprehensive setup for serious filleting demands.