The Best Pliers for Saltwater Fishing [2023]

As someone who's spent countless hours on the water, I can confidently say that fishing pliers are an indispensable piece of saltwater gear. Names like Van Staal and Danco come up frequently in discussions about the best fishing tools, and there's a reason for that. But it's not just about having a fancy tool on hand—it's about having the right tool for the job when you're out there on the water.

Whether you're a casual weekend warrior chasing reds in the flats or a pro testing your skills against tarpon and snook, let's dive into the real reasons why you always want to have some trusty pliers stashed in your tackle box.

Why Do You Need Fishing Pliers?

Fishing pliers, like Van Staal Titanium Pliers, Danco Pliers, or Accurate 7" Pirahna Pliers, are essential tools for many types of fishing. They can be used for a variety of tasks, including:

Hook Removal: Fishing pliers are most commonly used to remove hooks from the mouths of fish, which can be difficult and potentially harmful to both the fisherman and the fish if done without the right tool. The design of fishing pliers allows fishermen to reach deep inside the fish's mouth and safely remove the hook.
Cutting Line: Many fishing pliers come with a line cutter. This can be used to cut fishing line when rigging up a rod, changing lures, or releasing fish. Some fishing pliers, especially higher-end models, can even cut through heavy braided and fluorocarbon lines.
Crimping and Adjusting Split Shots: Split shots are small weights used in fishing, and pliers are often used to crimp them onto the line. Similarly, if the split shot needs to be adjusted or moved, pliers can be used to open the split shot without damaging the line.
Bending and Tuning Lures: Pliers can be used to adjust the bend of hooks to change how a lure presents in the water. This can be especially useful for fine-tuning how a lure swims or to match a specific baitfish profile.
Handling Fish: Some species of fish have sharp teeth or spines that can cause injury. Pliers can be used to safely handle these fish at a distance.
Cutting Wire or Light Metal: Some fishing situations require cutting through light wire or metal, such as when constructing leaders or cutting through a damaged hook.
Opening Split Rings: When changing out hooks on lures, split rings (the small circular rings that hold hooks on the lure) can be difficult to open without the right tool. Many fishing pliers come with a pointed tip designed to open split rings.

The particular models mentioned earlier (Van Staal, Danco, and Accurate) are known for their high-quality materials and construction, which provide durability and corrosion resistance, essential features for tools exposed to harsh saltwater environments.

The specific features and tools included on each model may vary, but unlike those useless, rusty pliers you got at the hardware store, they are all designed with the demanding needs of saltwater fishermen in mind.

What Are the Best Saltwater Fishing Pliers?

Best Overall: Van Staal Titanium Pliers
Runner-Up: Danco-Premio Pliers
Best Mid-Range Pliers: Accurate 7" Piranha Pliers
Best Budget Pliers: Calcutta 7" Aluminum Pliers with Golf Grips

Best Overall: Van Staal Titanium Pliers

Whether you spell it Van Staal, Vann Staal, Van Stahl, or Van Stall (speaking of "stall"...) their Titanium Pliers stand at the pinnacle of fishing gear. Whether you opt for the 6" or the more extended 7" model, these pliers, crafted entirely from lightweight titanium, exhibit impressive strength. Just like Van Staal reels, these babies consistently prove their worth with performance and longevity.

Their unique features, like the spring-loaded ergonomic handles and line cutter with replaceable tungsten cutters and anvils, set them apart from other saltwater fishing pliers on the market. Van Staal offers these pliers in kits including a lanyard and a top-quality leather sheath.

I know they're on the pricier side, but as someone who's used fishing pliers at all price points over the years, I can confidently say they're worth every penny. So despite being the most premium option on this list, if you're dedicated to saltwater fishing, Van Staal pliers are an investment you won't regret.

Runner-Up: Danco-Premio Pliers

As runner-up, these Danco-Premio Pliers are a rare example of high-caliber engineering at a price that's not going to empty your pockets. Made entirely from machine-crafted titanium these pliers have a blend of durability and lightness. (Plus with that sleek matte finish, they've really managed to marry function with aesthetics.)

One thing I also like is the replaceable Cobalt-Titanium side cutters, proficient at handling braided line, fluorocarbon, monofilament, and even light wire. Not to mention the inclusion of a Super Halo Hinge and a 304 stainless-steel D ring, enhancing the tool's overall performance and resilience.

And to top it all off, these pliers come with an elastic cord lanyard and a high-grade leather belt-loop sheath. And with a full Lifetime Warranty backing them, the Danco-Premio Pliers are absolutely in the running for the year's best saltwater fishing pliers. A seriously commendable choice for any fisherman out there.

Danco-Premio Pliers

$179.99

The absolute next level in fishing tools! We took a quantum leap forward and made a pair of extremely high-quality pliers that every angler would not only want but most importantly, be able to afford. Our premio level titanium pliers… read more

Best Mid-Range Pliers: Accurate 7" Piranha Pliers

The Accurate 7" Piranha Pliers offer reliable utility at a medium price point, making them the ideal choice for fishermen seeking a balance between cost and quality. These pliers are versatile and user-friendly, adept at removing hooks, cutting lines, and opening split rings with ease. Available in a regular tip, split tip, and "mini" split tip, these pliers cater to diverse fishing needs.

While they may not boast as many advanced features as their higher-end counterparts, they deliver solid performance, making them a dependable right-hand tool for any fisherman. So, if you're looking for a reliable partner out there in the open water, the Accurate 7" Piranha Pliers are a sure bet.

Best Budget Fishing Pliers: Calcutta 7" Aluminum Pliers with Golf Grips

Despite being the most economical option on this list, these Calcutta 7" Aluminum Pliers do not compromise on quality or durability. What really stands out to me at this budget price point is the comfort grip. Maintaining a firm hold in wet conditions can be a real challenge, but this grip offers excellent traction to get the job done right.

These pliers have durable cutters for a low cost, proficient at slicing mono, fluorocarbon, wire, and braid. I'd say that if you're just starting out fishing, or you're not quite at the point where you want to invest in some Van Staal or Danco pliers, the Calcuttas are a solid choice.

The Bottom Line

No matter what your skill level, one thing remains true: you're going to need some solid, reliable pliers in your arsenal. It's not about sporting the latest or most expensive gear; it's about having the best tool when you're knee-deep in the water, the sun's setting, and you've got a fighter on the line. From hook removal to line cutting, from crimping split shots to tuning lures, and even handling sharp-toothed catches, a pair of trusty fishing pliers is worth its weight in gold (or titanium).

The pliers I've discussed above stand out with their superior materials, design, and craftsmanship, features that promise durability and resilience against the relentless elements of saltwater environments. In other words, these models I've been jawing about, they're top-drawer, buddy.

But hey, don't just take my word for it—ask any surf, inshore, or offshore fisherman, and you'll get the same sentiment. Whatever your budget allows for, consider investing in the sturdiest pair of fishing pliers you can get your hands on. Trust me—it's a choice you won't regret once you're out there, and the bite is on.