How to Clean & Maintain a Fillet Knife

Written by: Coty Perry

Whether you're a novice angler or a seasoned pro, fillet knife care and maintenance are crucial to having the highest quality cuts of fish. To keep your knives in the best condition, check out our tips below so your knives will always be ready to go.

Avoid the Dishwasher

The first rule when cleaning your fillet knife is simple: avoid the dishwasher at all costs. While tossing your knife in with the rest of the dishes might seem convenient, doing so can cause significant damage.

The dishwasher environment is harsh on your blade, promoting rust formation and potentially damaging the knife's delicate edge. The high heat can be particularly harmful to the handle, especially if it's wooden. Although AFTCO knives don't use wooden handles, it's good information to keep in mind for knife care in general.

Perhaps most importantly, the dishwasher's powerful spray bar can knock the knife around, creating dull spots on the blade. These dull spots can significantly impact the knife's performance, making it harder to achieve those clean, precise cuts you aim for.

Hand Wash & Dry

Forget the dishwasher and get used to handwashing your fillet knife. Gentle care is the key. 

Start with warm water, a sponge, and a small amount of dish soap. Scrub the blade and the handle, but avoid using anything too abrasive. 

One area that often gets overlooked is where the blade meets the handle. This spot tends to collect fish residue, so give it extra attention during cleaning.

Once you've thoroughly cleaned the knife, the next step is crucial: drying. Use an absorbent towel to dry off both the blade and handle completely. This step is vital because a completely dry knife will prevent rust from forming when you place it back into its sheath.

Don't Cut on Hard Surfaces

When using your fillet knife, remember that it's a precision tool designed for specific tasks. These delicate knives aren't meant for heavy-duty work like chopping or cutting through bones.

Attempting to use your fillet knife for these tasks can seriously damage the blade, decreasing the quality of your cuts. Similarly, avoid cutting on hard surfaces. The delicate edge of a fillet knife can easily chip when used on materials like stone or metal.

Always use an appropriate cutting board to protect your knife's edge and maintain its sharpness. We wrote an entire guide here with the best tips for sharpening your fillet knives. 

How to Remove Rust from Fillet Knives - Oiling the Blade

Despite your best efforts, your fillet knife may develop rust over time, especially if it's been exposed to saltwater. Don't panic if you notice some rust forming – there's an easy solution.

Grab a product called Bar Keepers Friend, which is excellent for cleaning rust. Here's how to use it:

• Put a small amount on a paper towel
• Rub a thin layer onto the blade
• Let it sit for 1-2 minutes
• Wipe it off – the rust should come right off

This simple cleaning process can restore your knife to its former glory, removing unsightly and potentially damaging rust.

Where to Store Knives

Proper storage is another key factor in maintaining your fillet knife. When not in use, your knife should be stored in a dedicated knife case or a fillet knife sheath.

These protective coverings serve multiple purposes. First, they protect the blade's edge from getting worn down, which is especially important if you're storing the knife in a drawer with other utensils. 

Second, they protect you from accidental cuts when reaching for the knife. Lastly, they help keep the knife clean and dry between uses, further preventing rust formation.

Long-Term Storage

If you plan to store your knife for an extended period, consider applying a light coat of mineral oil to the blade. This extra layer of protection can help prevent rust formation during long-term storage. Just be sure to clean the oil off thoroughly before using the knife again.

Alternative Storage Solutions

Many people prefer to store their knives on a hanging magnetic strip. This keeps everything accessible and in front of you so you can see what knives you’re working with. The most important thing to consider is potential damage to your knives if you choose this.

Don’t drag your knives along the magnets; be careful what you do with the blades, and make sure the strips are strong enough to hold your knives, so they don’t fall. 

Choosing the Right Fillet Knife

When selecting a fillet knife, consider factors like blade material, handle comfort, and flexibility. The best fish fillet knife should have a high-quality stainless steel blade that resists corrosion and holds an edge well.

The handle should be comfortable to grip, even when wet, and the blade should have enough flexibility to follow the contours of the fish while still maintaining control.

Inspecting Your Fillet Knives

Take a moment to examine your knife before and after each use. Look for any signs of damage or wear, paying particular attention to the edge and the area where the blade meets the handle. Catching potential issues early on can prevent more serious problems down the line. 

Most importantly, please check these things ahead of time. As you’re figuring out what to wear on the fishing trip and going through your gear, check your fillet knives to ensure they’re sharp. You don’t want to get stuck on deck with a dull knife.

Whether you're working with a basic fishing knife or the best fillet knife for fish on the market, proper care and maintenance will significantly extend its lifespan and performance. Your fillet knife is more than just a tool – it's an extension of your skills as an angler. 

Knife maintenance will make your fillet skills look even better. Ike Jime is another way to improve your fish prep. Learn more about it here!

With these care techniques, you're not just maintaining a knife — you're preserving one of the most important parts of your fishing kit.

Author’s profile: Coty Perry 

As a third-generation angler and the Managing Editor of Anglers, he possesses a wealth of knowledge and experience in outdoor activities. He frequently enjoys fishing and camping outings with his wife and children.