The success of any fishing trip can be determined by numerous factors, with the main one being the quality of the tools you use for tackling lots of small tasks on the boat. Unfortunately, carrying multiple devices isn’t practical; therefore, you need a reliable fishing multitool. So, if you want to know what the best fishing multitool is? Let’s find out.
Multitools are hand tools that combine lots of individual functions in one unit. (source) Despite being pocket-sized, these tools can tackle various functions ranging from minor repairs to cutting the fishing lines.
A multitool is a single unit that can tackle lots of small tasks while leaving you with more than enough space on your vessel for other gear. These pocket-sized multitools come with over seven mini tools that can make your life easier. So, in this article, we’ll show you “what is the best fishing multitool?”
What Is the Best Fishing Multitool?
A fishing multitool is a unique tool designed to fill in when packing an entire toolbox for your fishing trip isn’t practical. A multitool can get you out of a sticky situation and make your trip fun and relaxing. After all, knowing that you have all the main tools in your toolbox in your pocket can give you peace of mind.
Unfortunately, not all multitools are equal; in fact, some are better than others. Some multitools have more mini tools than others. So if you want to know what the best fishing multitool in the market is? You have come to the right place. Here are some of the best fishing multitools for any fishing and camping trip:
Leatherman, Wingman Multitool
Leatherman has produced some of the best multitools in the market, and leatherman wingman is no exception. Thanks to its classic design, this multitool can be your go-to option for a wide range of projects, including fishing. The wingman comes equipped with fourteen tools that can make your fishing trip easy and fun. These multitool tools include wire stripper, wire cutter, knife, can and bottle openers, and scissors. (source)
This unique tool has a one-hand opening mechanism, which means that you can access all the devices using one hand. It includes tools that you can’t access from the outside. And to increase your confidence when cutting, Leatherman added a locking blade. And to prove that they stand by their products, Leatherman Wingman comes with a 25 years warranty. (source)
I love my Wingman, the great thing is Amazon stocks this thing and delivers super fast. To check the current prices here’s a link – Leatherman Wingman
Thanks to its removable pocket clip, lightweight design, and compact size, you can carry this unit everywhere you go. And if you ask some of the talented anglers, they will confirm that the answer to the question “what is the best fishing multitool?” is Leatherman wingman multitools. Unfortunately, some anglers have complained that the scissors are a bit hard to squeeze when using them.
Specs
| Brand | Leatherman |
| Warranty | 25-year warranty |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Weight | 0.43 pounds |
| Number of tools | 14 tools |
Pros
- It has a locking blade.
- It has a one-hand opening system like all Leatherman multitools
- It comes with a 25-year warranty
- Durable
- Lightweight
- It comes with a replaceable pocket clip
Cons
- The scissors are a tad tricky to squeeze
Leatherman Skeletool Multitool
Another solution for anglers wondering, “what is the best fishing multitool?” is Leatherman Skeletool multitool. Weighing about 5 ounces, Leatherman Skeletool has everything you will ever need in a multitool. Its compact and lightweight design makes it a perfect companion for any fishing trip.
The Skeletool comes equipped with seven tools: a bottle opener, wire cutter, exchangeable bit driver, pliers, and a knife. Therefore, it is equipped with everything you will ever need for your fishing trip. (source)
And since you may always have only one free hand when fishing, having an easy-to-open multitool like Skeletool is a bonus. Skeletool only needs one hand to open and operate. Plus, its lockable blades will give you confidence when cutting the fishing line and the fish after catching it. And just like all the other Leatherman products, this multitool comes with a removable pocket clip. (source)
Leatherman Skeletool multitool also has a 25-year limited warranty. So you can send it back to the manufacturers when spoiled, and they will repair it for free. However, some anglers have complained that it doesn’t have a pair of scissors.
Specs
| Brand | Leatherman |
| Color | black |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Weight | 5 ounces |
| Warranty | 25-year warranty |
| Number of tools | Seven tools |
Pros
- Durable
- Lightweight
- It has a locking blade
- Affordable
- It comes with a 25-year warranty
Cons
- It doesn’t have spring-action pliers or scissors
Leatherman Sidekick Pocket-Size Multitool
As its name suggests, the Sidekick is a perfect companion to have on your fishing trip. Thanks to its 14 mini-tools, the Sidekick can help you tackle a wide range of tasks. This unit’s tools included a saw, ruler, serrated knife, knife, wire stripper, wire cutter, and three types of screwdrivers. So if the number of tools matters when it comes to determining the best fishing multitool in the market? then you should try Leatherman Sidekick. (source )
If I had to make a second choice it would be the Sidekick. It’s a bit smaller (under 4 inches) so in turn easier to pack. You should check out the reviews on Amazon with this link – Leatherman Sidekick
And just like the other Leatherman multitools, the Sidekick also has a one-hand access mechanism. So, you can enjoy a mixture of outside-accessible tools that are easy to open. This multitool also has rounded handles; therefore, using the spring-action jaws is comfortable and easy. Its lightweight design and size make it a great multitool to slide in your pockets.
This high-quality multitool also has a lanyard ring that you can use to secure the multitool to your fishing attire. Therefore, you won’t ever have to worry about losing it, even if you drop it when fishing. Unfortunately, some users have complained that the saw is bendy and too thin. (source)
Specs
| Brand | Leatherman |
| Material | plastic |
| Weight | 0.43 pounds |
| Number of tools | 14 tools |
Pros
- It comes with a lanyard ring
- It has a serrated knife
- Affordable
- Durable
- Easy to use
Cons
- The saw is too thin
Leatherman Rebar Multitool
As aforementioned, Leatherman has manufactured some of the best multitools in the market, including the Leatherman Rebar multitool. Inspired by Leatherman Tim’s original pocket survival tool, this multitool comes with lots of locking tools. Plus, all its 17-in-1 tools are 100% stainless steel. In fact, the 17 tools are what make Leatherman Rebar one of the best fishing multitools available. (source)
This multitool comes with a wire stripper, electric crimpers, thread loop, saw, bottle opener, and regular and needlenose pliers, among others. And to keep all the tools safe and prevent injuries, the Rebar multitool has a reliable locking system. So you will never have to worry about it collapsing while being used. This multitool has a method for locking every tool except the pliers. (source)
And just like most Leatherman multitools, the Rebar multitool also comes with a 25-year warranty.
Rebar multitool has strong pair pliers with a hand-wire cutter. And its unique design and small size make it the best option for any outdoorsman. Rebar multitool also comes with a lanyard ring that can help you keep it safe when fishing. Unfortunately, some users have complained that the coating peels off with time.
Specs
| Brand | Leatherman |
| Weight | 0.66 pounds |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| warranty | 25 years |
| Number of tools | 17 tools |
Pros
- It has a unique tool locking system
- Lightweight
- Durable
- It has a lanyard ring
- It comes with replaceable wire cutters
Cons
- The coating comes off with time
Gerber Gear 47550N MP600 Multitool
Gerber MP600 multitool is an excellent option for all anglers. The tool is great for your fishing pack weighing about 0.5 pounds. This needle nose plier multitool comes with 14 reliable tools that can improve your fishing experience. Some of the essential tools this multitool comes with include serrated and plain edge knives, wire crimper, wire cutter, cross screwdriver, can and bottle opener, and file. (source)
Unfortunately, it is heavier than some leatherman multitools like wingman that resemble it. This multitool is made using stainless steel and has a one-hand opening mechanism that makes it look and feel excellent. This tool also comes with a ballistic nylon sheath that keeps it safe when not being used. (source)
Guide Recommendation: Gerber is a proven brand in the multi tool market. I have an old “dime” multi tool. I don’t think it’s sold anymore but it has lasted at least 6 years (as of this writing)
For extra security when fishing, this multitool has a lanyard ring that you can attach to your clothes to keep from losing your tool. Unfortunately, it doesn’t come with a pair of scissors.
Specs
| Brand | Gerber |
| Weight | 0.5 pounds |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Number of tools | 14 tools |
Pros
- Durable
- Easy to use
- It has a lanyard ring
- It comes with a lifetime warranty for North American residence
Cons
- Some users have complained that it doesn’t have scissors
FAQs
Is Carrying a Multitool Legal in the United States?
Most jurisdictions will allow you to carry a multitool legally, while other states don’t allow people to open-carry a multitool with a huge knife. Some states will determine the length of the multitool’s blade since they don’t see the need for you to carry a long blade.
Are Leatherman Multitools Worth It?
Leatherman multi-tools are made using high-quality material that can serve you for a very long time. And if damaged, you can have it repaired by Leatherman thanks to their 25-year warranty. So for such an affordable fishing multitool, it is worth its price.
Is It Legal to Carry My Multitool on the Plane?
Yes, you can carry a multitool on the plane, but make sure it doesn’t have a blade. After all, most airlines are against their passengers carrying any knife in their carry-on bags. But multitools with 4 inches, you can take long scissors in carry-on bags.
Conclusion
What is the best fishing multitool? Well, there are lots of multitools in the market with lots of mini-tools that can serve you while fishing. So the answer to this question will depend on your needs while fishing. In fact, one of the critical factors that most anglers consider when buying one is the number of functionalities it has.
Check out a couple articles I wrote below on accessories and how to carry them:
- Essential Fly Fishing Accessories – has 5 items always in my bag.
- My recommended Sling Pack – Fishpond Summit – I love this bag!
Hi David Humphries Owner of Guide Recommended. I love everything to do with fly fishing. Casting, Tying, YouTube, writing about it and even teaching. I’ve got a FREE video workshop teaching how to dry fly fish at this link How to Fly Fish
Sources
- Wikipedia contributors, Multi-Tool, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multi-tool/ Accessed September 27, 2021
- Amazon staff, Letherman, Wingman Multitool with spring-action pliers and scissors, built in the USA, Stainless steel with nylon sheath, https://www.amazon.com/LEATHERMAN-Wingman-Multitool-Stainless-Steel/dp/B005DI0XM4/ Accessed September 27, 2021
- Amazon staff, Leatherman-Skeletool lightweight multitool with combo knife and bottler opener, stainless steel & black with a silver jaw, https://www.amazon.com/LEATHERMAN-Skeletool-Lightweight-Multitool-Stainless/dp/B084Q814VP?th=1/ Accessed September 27, 2021
- Amazon staff, Leatherman, sidekick pocket-size multitool with spring-action pliers and saw, stainless steel with nylon sheath, https://www.amazon.com/Leatherman-Sidekick-Multitool-Stainless-Sheath/dp/B005DI2QTC/ Accessed September 27, 2021
- Amazon staff, Leatherman, Rebar Multitool with premium replaceable wire cutters and saw, stainless steel with leather sheath, https://www.amazon.com/LEATHERMAN-Multitool-Stainless-Leather-Sheath/dp/B005KSWIHK/ Accessed September 27, 2021
- Amazon staff, Gerber gear 47550N MP600 needlenose pliers multitool multi-plier, black, https://www.amazon.com/Gerber-MP600-Multi-Plier-Needle-47550/dp/B000VORS1E/ Accessed September 27, 2021