Best Fishing Knives in Australia (2025 Guide)
Chasing barra in the Top End or dropping lines off the NSW coast? The right fishing knife makes the day easier and safer. In this guide, you’ll learn how to choose between carbon steel and stainless steel, which handle material suits Aussie conditions, and you’ll see our top D’Avila picks for anglers.
Carbon Steel vs Stainless Steel: Which Is Better for Aussie Waters?
| Feature | Stainless Steel (420) | Carbon Steel (5160) |
|---|---|---|
| Rust Resistance | Excellent – built for saltwater; low maintenance | Moderate – rinse, dry and lightly oil after use |
| Edge Feel & Retention | Good – easy care, reliable sharpness | Superior – takes a keen edge and holds it longer |
| Field Maintenance | Simple – wash & dry | Quick touch-ups; wipe dry and oil before storage |
| Best For | Boats, heavy salt exposure, easy-care kits | Precision filleting, tough Aussie species, camp work |
Short answer: want no-fuss care on a boat? Go stainless. Want maximum sharpness and control? Choose carbon steel and give it a quick oil after use.
Handle Materials: Grip That Works When Wet
| Handle Material | Grip & Feel | Water / Care | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stabilised Wood | Warm, comfortable, balanced | Moisture-resistant; wipe dry | All-round fishing and camp use |
| Micarta | Very grippy and tough | Virtually waterproof; minimal care | Heavy saltwater & rugged conditions |
| Bovine Bone | Traditional and tactile | Keep dry; occasional light oil | Classic styling & collectors |
| Resin (Gold Leaves) | Smooth, durable, eye-catching | Fully waterproof; easy care | Performance with standout style |
Top D’Avila Knives for Fishing in Australia
1. Tracker Adventure 6.5" Knife – Carbon Steel 5160 (Micarta or Resin with Gold Leaves)
Best for: tough outdoor work, bait prep, rope and camp jobs. Full-tang, sawback spine and a balanced feel make it a reliable all-rounder.
- 5160 carbon steel for keen, lasting sharpness
- Micarta or resin handle options
- Hand-stitched leather sheath
2. Amazonia Adventure 8" Knife – Carbon Steel 5160 (Bovine Bone or Micarta)
Best for: scaling and cleaning larger fish. The longer blade glides through fillets and handles camp duties with ease.
3. Skinner Adventure 6" Knife – Carbon Steel 5160 (Stabilised Wood)
Best for: precise skinning and clean prep work. The gut hook and pronounced belly help keep cuts controlled.
4. Pampa Adventure 3" Knife – Carbon Steel 5160 (Bovine Bone or Micarta)
Best for: compact tackle kits and everyday fishing jobs. Small footprint, serious cutting power.
5. Jaguar Claw Adventure 3" Knife – Stainless Steel 420 (Stabilised Wood)
Best for: saltwater bait prep and light filleting. Corrosion-resistant steel and a compact profile that’s easy to stow on the boat.
6. Gourmet 8" Knife – Stainless Steel 420 (Stabilised Wood)
Best for: cleaning the catch back at camp or in the kitchen. Low-maintenance blade with a classic profile.
Care Tips for Australian Conditions
- Rinse with fresh water after salt exposure and wipe dry immediately.
- For carbon steel, add a light coat of oil before storage.
- Use a rod or stone for regular honing to keep that keen edge.
- Store in a ventilated sheath with drainage.
Why Choose D’Avila Hand-Forged Knives
Every D’Avila blade is forged by hand and backed by a Lifetime Warranty. We build tools for real use in Aussie conditions — balanced, durable and made to be handed down.
Shop the Best Fishing Knives in Australia
Explore the full range of handcrafted fishing knives built for Australian waters.
→ Browse Fishing & Adventure Knives
