Benchmade Fishcrafter 9" Fillet Knife Review - Texas Outdoors by the Coker Boys

The Benchmade Fishcrafter 9″ Fillet Knife is a top-tier tool designed for fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts who value precision, durability, and versatility. Benchmade, a brand synonymous with high-quality craftsmanship and innovative knife technology, has crafted an outstanding fillet knife. Below is an in-depth review of the knife’s design, performance, and overall usability.

Design and Build Quality

The Fishcrafter 9″ Fillet Knife features a 9-inch blade made from CPM-Magnacut stainless steel, a premium grade material known for its high corrosion resistance and ability to retain sharpness even under tough conditions. This is a crucial feature for any knife that will be used in wet environments or around saltwater, as it ensures the blade remains durable and reliable over time.

The knife’s blade is thin and flexible, allowing for precise cuts that follow the contours of a fish’s bones with minimal resistance. Flexibility is a key feature in any fillet knife, and Benchmade has struck a balance between providing enough flex for detailed work while maintaining enough rigidity for stability and control. This balance helps in ensuring that the blade doesn’t bend too much, which could compromise cutting accuracy or even lead to accidental injuries. What I really appreciate is that the blade retains its width almost to the trailing point. Most fillet knives, like the Rapala we all grew up using, quickly taper to the point. This knife is very easy to use, whether on those tough redfish or delicate trout.

Into the Wild Below!

The handle of the Fishcrafter is another highlight. Made from Santoprene, a durable, rubber-like material, it provides excellent grip and comfort, even when wet. The ergonomically shaped handle ensures a secure hold, which is vital when working with slippery fish. Whether you’re filleting a large catch or performing delicate trimming, the handle minimizes hand fatigue, making long periods of use much more manageable.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Benchmade Fishcrafter excels. The sharpness out of the box is impressive, smoothly cutting through fish with little effort. Whether you’re filleting delicate fish like trout or thicker species such as redfish, the blade maintains its edge well, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.

The thin profile and flexibility of the blade make it particularly suited for making intricate cuts, such as removing skin or working around bones. The CPM-MagnaCut steel also allows for easy maintenance—keeping the blade sharp with regular honing is straightforward, and the steel’s resistance to corrosion means it requires less frequent cleaning than other fillet knives, particularly those made from lower-grade materials.

The knife also comes with a well-made sheath that offers both protection for the blade and safety for the user when the knife is not in use. The sheath is ventilated to prevent moisture buildup, which helps keep the blade dry and rust-free.

Conclusion

The Benchmade Fishcrafter 9″ Fillet Knife is an outstanding choice for anglers seeking a high-performance, durable, and versatile fillet knife. Its blend of premium materials, ergonomic design, and innovative features make it worth the investment, especially for those who spend significant time on the water. While it may come at a higher price point than many other fillet knives, its long-term durability and superior performance make it a valuable tool for any serious fisherman. Whether you’re filleting small or large fish, the Benchmade Fishcrafter delivers the precision and reliability you need.

With an MSRP of $260, the Benchmade Fishmaster is a serious investment. However, compared to the cost of your other premium gear it is well worth it.

Check current retail price here.

Did I mention the Benchmade LifeSharp Service?