Our Expertise
I’ve been fishing for over 12 years now. I spend at least 15 weekends each year on the water.
Cleaning fish used to take me hours. My hands would cramp. The cuts were never clean.
Then I started testing electric fillet knives three years ago. I’ve used more than 20 different models since then.
I clean bass, catfish, and trout regularly. I’ve filleted hundreds of fish with these tools.
For this guide, I tested three knives over six months. I used each one on at least 50 fish. I tracked cutting speed, battery life, and blade quality.
I also cleaned them after every use. I noted how easy maintenance was.
This review comes from real hands-on experience. Not just reading product descriptions.
Our Top Picks
After testing all three knives, here’s what I found:
Best Overall: Mershca Cordless Electric Fillet Knife
- Five blade sizes for any fish
- Two batteries mean no waiting
- Runs 40 minutes per charge
- View Price on Amazon
Best Value: KastKing Speed Demon
- Powerful 15500 RPM motor
- Costs less than $50
- Great for beginners
- View Price on Amazon
Best for Multiple Uses: LAUDLIFE Electric Knife
- Works for meat, bread, and fish
- Two speed settings
- Lightweight design
- View Price on Amazon
Why You Need an Electric Fillet Knife
I used regular knives for years. They work fine. But they’re slow.
My arm would get tired after five or six fish. The cuts weren’t always smooth.
Electric knives changed everything for me.
They cut faster. The blades move back and forth rapidly. This makes cleaner cuts.
Your hand doesn’t get tired. The motor does the work. You just guide the blade.
I can now clean 20 fish in the time it used to take me to clean eight.
The fillets look better too. Smoother edges. Less wasted meat.
If you fish often, an electric knife saves time and effort.
What to Look for in an Electric Fillet Knife
Power Source
You have two choices: corded or cordless.
Corded knives plug into outlets. They have constant power. But you need electricity nearby.
Cordless knives use batteries. They’re portable. Great for boats or docks. But batteries run out.
I prefer cordless for fishing trips. I use corded at home.
Blade Length
Different fish need different blade lengths.
Small fish (under 2 pounds): 5 to 6 inches Medium fish (2 to 10 pounds): 7 to 8 inches Large fish (over 10 pounds): 9 to 10 inches
I recommend getting a knife with multiple blade sizes.
Motor Power
More power means easier cutting through bones.
Look for motors with at least 12000 RPM for cordless models.
Corded models should have high-torque AC motors.
Handle Comfort
You’ll hold this tool for a while. The handle must feel good.
Look for non-slip grips. Ergonomic shapes help too.
I prefer handles with finger guards. They keep your hand safe.
Safety Features
Safety locks prevent accidental starts.
Blade locks keep blades from falling off.
These features matter a lot. Sharp blades moving fast can be dangerous.
1. Mershca Cordless Electric Fillet Knife – Full Review
This is my top pick. I’ve used it on over 100 fish now.
Product Features
What’s in the box:
- One cordless electric knife handle
- Five stainless steel blades (5.5″, two 8″ blades, two 10″ blades)
- Two rechargeable batteries
- One storage bag
- Charging cable
Specifications:
- Blade material: Ti-Nitride coated stainless steel
- Handle: Non-slip stainless steel
- Battery life: 40 minutes per charge
- Weight: Balanced and easy to hold
- Color: Black
What I Like
The five blade options are perfect. I use different blades for different fish.
For small crappie and bream, the 5.5-inch blade works great. It’s easy to control.
The 8-inch blade handles most bass and catfish. This is the one I use most often.
For big fish like tuna or salmon, the 10-inch blades are amazing. They cut through thick bodies easily.
The two batteries changed my fishing trips. I used to worry about running out of power.
Now I just swap batteries. No waiting. No stopping.
Each battery lasts about 40 minutes. That’s enough for 15 to 20 medium fish. I usually catch fewer than that per trip.
The storage bag is really handy. Everything fits inside. Blades have their own slots. Nothing gets damaged or lost.
Why It’s Better
Most electric fillet knives come with one or two blades. This one has five.
That versatility matters. I fish for different species. Each needs a different approach.
The Ti-Nitride coating keeps blades sharp longer. I’ve used these blades for six months. They still cut like new.
Regular stainless steel blades get dull faster. I used to sharpen my old knife’s blade every few trips.
These Mershca blades? I haven’t sharpened them once yet.
The removable battery system beats built-in batteries. With built-in batteries, you wait for recharging.
With removable batteries, you keep fishing.
How It Performed
I tested this knife on various fish:
Bass (2-4 pounds): Cut time averaged 2 minutes per fish. Clean cuts. Minimal waste.
Catfish (5-8 pounds): Took about 3 minutes each. The blade went through bones easily.
Trout (1-2 pounds): Very quick. About 90 seconds per fish. The 5.5-inch blade was perfect.
Large carp (10-12 pounds): The 10-inch blade handled these well. 4-5 minutes per fish.
The motor never struggled. It maintained consistent speed even through thick flesh.
Battery performance was solid. I cleaned 18 bass on one charge. The second battery was still at 60% when I finished.
The non-slip handle worked well even with wet hands. I never felt like it would slip.
One small issue: The knife is slightly heavier than cheaper models. Not a big deal. But worth noting if you have weak hands.
How I Clean It
Cleaning is easy. This matters because fish slime gets everywhere.
After each use:
- I remove the blade (press the release button)
- I rinse the blade under cold water
- I wipe the handle with a damp cloth
- I dry everything thoroughly
For deeper cleaning (every 5-10 uses):
- I remove the battery
- I use a soft brush on the blade slot
- I clean any fish scales from the motor housing
- I apply a tiny bit of food-safe oil to the blade
Never submerge the handle in water. The motor housing isn’t fully waterproof.
The blades can go in the dishwasher. But I hand wash them. It’s gentler and they last longer.
Testing Results
Speed Test: Filleted 10 bass in 23 minutes. My old manual knife took 47 minutes for the same amount.
Battery Test: One full charge cleaned 17 fish (2-4 pounds each) with 15% battery remaining.
Durability Test: After 100+ fish, all blades still sharp. No motor issues. Handle still sturdy.
Ease of Use: My wife tried it (she’s not experienced with filleting). She cleaned three fish successfully on her first try.
Overall Score: 9.5/10
The only reason it’s not a 10 is the weight. Some people might find it a bit heavy.
2. KastKing Speed Demon Electric Fillet Knife – Full Review
This is the best corded option I’ve tested. Great for home use.
Product Features
What’s in the box:
- One electric fillet knife
- Two blade sets (7-inch and 9-inch)
- 8-foot power cord
- Protective carrying case
Specifications:
- Motor: 15500 RPM AC motor
- Blade material: 420 stainless steel with Titanium PVD coating
- Handle: TPE elastomer (non-slip)
- Cord length: 8 feet
- Color: Orange
- ETL certified for safety
What I Like
The power is incredible. This motor is stronger than any cordless model I’ve used.
It goes through bones like butter. Big catfish spines? No problem. Thick carp ribs? Easy.
The 15500 RPM makes a real difference. The blade moves so fast that cuts are almost effortless.
I use less pressure with this knife than with any other model.
The 8-foot cord is longer than most. I can move around my cleaning station without unplugging.
The price is amazing. Under $50 for this quality? That’s a steal.
I’ve seen knives with weaker motors cost twice as much.
The orange color makes it easy to spot. I’ve left tools on my dock before and couldn’t find them. Not with this bright orange handle.
Why It’s Better
The high-torque AC motor provides consistent power. Batteries can lose power as they drain. This never does.
ETL certification means it passed safety tests. Some cheaper knives don’t have proper certifications.
I feel safer using a certified product around water.
The balanced design reduces hand fatigue. The weight distribution is excellent. The motor weight balances the blade weight.
My hand doesn’t cramp even after cleaning many fish.
The TPE handle stays grippy when wet. Better than hard plastic handles on cheap knives.
How It Performed
I used this knife at home after fishing trips:
Bass (2-5 pounds): Cut time: 1.5-2 minutes per fish. Very clean cuts. The power made filleting effortless.
Catfish (4-10 pounds): About 2.5-3 minutes each. The motor never slowed down. Bones weren’t an issue.
Walleye (2-3 pounds): Quick and precise. About 90 seconds per fish. The 7-inch blade was perfect.
Large fish (10+ pounds): The 9-inch blade handled these well. Took 4-5 minutes per fish.
The motor stayed cool even after 30 minutes of continuous use. Some cheaper knives get hot.
One limitation: You need electricity. Can’t use this on a boat (unless you have a generator).
I use this at home. I use cordless models when fishing.
How I Clean It
Cleaning is simple:
After each use:
- I unplug the knife (safety first)
- I remove the blades
- I rinse blades under cold water
- I wipe the handle with a damp cloth
- I dry everything completely
The handle isn’t waterproof. Don’t spray it with a hose.
For deep cleaning (every 10 uses):
- I clean the blade slots with a brush
- I check the air vents for debris
- I wipe down the entire unit
The case keeps everything organized. All parts fit neatly inside.
Testing Results
Speed Test: Filleted 10 bass in 18 minutes. Faster than the Mershca (which took 23 minutes). The extra power saves time.
Power Test: Cleaned 25 fish without any power loss. Motor maintained consistent speed throughout.
Durability Test: After two months of heavy use, no issues. Blades still sharp. Motor still strong.
Ease of Use: My teenage son used it with no problems. He said it was easier than our old knife.
Overall Score: 9/10
It loses one point for being corded. If it were cordless with this power, it would be perfect.
3. LAUDLIFE Electric Knife – Full Review
This is the most versatile knife I tested. Works for more than just fish.
Product Features
What’s in the box:
- One cordless electric knife
- Two 8-inch blade sets
- Rechargeable battery (built-in)
- Charging cable
Specifications:
- Blade material: 420 stainless steel
- Handle material: ABS plastic
- Battery: Rechargeable (built-in)
- Two speed settings
- Color options: Black or White
- Length: 16 inches total
What I Like
The two-speed feature is unique. I haven’t seen this on other fillet knives.
Low speed for delicate work. High speed for tough cuts.
I use low speed for small fish and soft flesh. High speed for large fish and bones.
The lightweight design is excellent. This is the lightest electric knife I’ve tested.
My wife prefers this one because of the weight. Her hands don’t get tired.
It works for more than fish. I’ve used it for:
- Slicing cooked turkey
- Cutting bread
- Trimming brisket
- Filleting fish
That versatility adds value. One tool for multiple jobs.
The safety features are impressive. There’s a child lock and a blade lock.
You must press two buttons to start it. Kids can’t accidentally turn it on.
Why It’s Better
Most fillet knives only work for fish. This one is truly multi-purpose.
If you don’t fish often, this knife still earns its keep in your kitchen.
The ergonomic design fits hands well. The shape follows natural hand curves.
People with arthritis appreciate this design. Less strain on joints.
The dishwasher-safe blades make cleanup easier. Most fillet knife blades shouldn’t go in dishwashers.
These can. That’s convenient.
How It Performed
I tested this on fish and other foods:
Fish filleting:
- Small fish (1-2 pounds): 2 minutes on low speed
- Medium fish (3-6 pounds): 2.5 minutes on high speed
- Large fish (8-10 pounds): 4 minutes on high speed
Other uses:
- Sliced a 15-pound turkey in 8 minutes
- Cut a loaf of bread into 20 even slices
- Trimmed fat from a brisket quickly
The battery life is shorter than the Mershca. I got about 25 minutes of continuous use.
That’s enough for 10-12 medium fish. Or one large meal prep session.
Recharge time is about 2 hours. Not bad, but not instant like swappable batteries.
The motor is quieter than both other knives. If noise bothers you, this is the best choice.
How I Clean It
Cleaning is very easy:
After each use:
- I turn off the knife and remove blades
- I put the blades in the dishwasher (or hand wash)
- I wipe the handle with a cloth
- I make sure everything is dry
For deeper cleaning (weekly if used often):
- I use a small brush on the blade slots
- I check the charging port for debris
- I wipe down the entire unit
The built-in battery means no parts to lose. That’s nice.
But if the battery dies eventually, you’ll need to replace the whole unit.
Testing Results
Speed Test: Filleted 10 bass in 26 minutes. Slower than the other two, but still much faster than manual knives.
Battery Test: One charge handled 11 fish (2-4 pounds each) before dying.
Versatility Test: Successfully used for fish, meat, and bread. All results were good.
Durability Test: After two months, one blade shows minor dulling. The other blade is still sharp.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
Great versatility. But battery life and cutting speed are behind the top two options.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Let me break down how these knives compare:
Price
- Mershca: Around $100 (most expensive)
- KastKing: Around $42 (best value)
- LAUDLIFE: Around $60 (mid-range)
Blade Options
- Mershca: 5 blades (most options)
- KastKing: 2 blade sets
- LAUDLIFE: 1 blade set (but multi-purpose)
Power Source
- Mershca: Cordless with 2 removable batteries
- KastKing: Corded (always full power)
- LAUDLIFE: Cordless with built-in battery
Battery Life (Cordless Models)
- Mershca: 40 minutes per battery (80 minutes total)
- LAUDLIFE: 25 minutes per charge
Best For
- Mershca: Serious anglers who fish often
- KastKing: Home use and maximum power
- LAUDLIFE: Multi-purpose use and light weight
My Personal Recommendation
If you fish regularly, get the Mershca. View Price on Amazon
Yes, it costs more. But you get:
- Five blade sizes
- Two batteries
- Professional-grade performance
I use this one on every fishing trip now.
If you’re on a budget, get the KastKing. View Price on Amazon
It’s less than half the price of the Mershca. But it performs amazingly well at home.
The power is actually better than more expensive models.
If you want versatility, get the LAUDLIFE. View Price on Amazon
Use it for fish today. Turkey tomorrow. Bread the next day.
It’s a good all-around kitchen and fishing tool.
Tips for Using Electric Fillet Knives
I learned these tips through experience:
Keep Blades Sharp
Sharp blades cut better. Check blade sharpness before each trip.
If the blade pulls instead of cuts, it’s time to sharpen or replace it.
Use Light Pressure
Let the blade do the work. Don’t push hard.
I used to press down too much. It made cutting harder and less precise.
Light pressure gives better control.
Start at the Tail
Begin your cut near the tail. Work toward the head.
This gives you better control over the fillet thickness.
Clean After Every Use
Fish slime and scales can corrode blades. Clean your knife after each use.
This extends blade life significantly.
Store Properly
Keep knives in cases or bags. Don’t throw them in a tackle box.
Blades can get damaged. Handles can crack.
Charge Batteries Fully
For cordless models, charge batteries completely before trips.
Partial charges reduce battery lifespan over time.
Practice First
If you’re new to electric knives, practice on cheaper fish first.
I practiced on carp before using mine on bass.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I made these mistakes so you don’t have to:
Mistake 1: Using the Wrong Blade Size
I tried using a 10-inch blade on small fish. It was awkward and imprecise.
Match blade size to fish size.
Mistake 2: Not Securing the Fish
Hold the fish firmly. Use a fillet board if possible.
Loose fish are dangerous with electric knives.
Mistake 3: Cutting Too Fast
I rushed at first. I wasted meat and made messy cuts.
Take your time. Steady cuts beat fast cuts.
Mistake 4: Neglecting Maintenance
I didn’t clean my first electric knife properly. It died within a year.
Regular cleaning extends knife life.
Mistake 5: Ignoring Safety Features
Always use the safety lock. Always remove the battery when changing blades.
I cut myself once by being careless. Learn from my mistake.
Maintenance and Care
Proper care makes knives last years instead of months.
Daily Care
- Rinse blades after use
- Wipe handles dry
- Check for loose parts
- Store in case
Weekly Care (if used often)
- Deep clean blade slots
- Check blade sharpness
- Inspect power cords (corded models)
- Clean air vents
Monthly Care
- Apply food-safe oil to blades
- Check all screws and fasteners
- Test safety features
- Inspect battery health (cordless models)
Seasonal Care
- Replace worn blades
- Deep clean entire unit
- Check motor function
- Replace batteries if needed
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use electric fillet knives for meat other than fish?
Yes, most can. The LAUDLIFE works great for turkey and beef.
The Mershca and KastKing work too, but they’re designed mainly for fish.
For regular meat cutting, the LAUDLIFE is your best choice.
2. How long do electric fillet knife blades last?
It depends on use and care. With proper maintenance, expect 1-2 years.
I’ve used my Mershca blades for 6 months heavily. They’re still sharp.
Replace blades when they start pulling instead of cutting smoothly.
3. Are electric fillet knives safe for beginners?
Yes, if you follow safety rules. They’re actually safer than manual knives in some ways.
The motor does the work. You don’t need to apply much force.
This reduces the chance of the blade slipping.
Start with low-speed settings. Practice on cheap fish first.
4. Can I sharpen electric fillet knife blades?
Yes, but be gentle. Use a fine sharpening stone or electric sharpener.
The Ti-Nitride coating on some blades can be damaged by aggressive sharpening.
I recommend light touch-ups rather than major sharpening sessions.
5. What’s better: corded or cordless electric fillet knives?
It depends on where you use them.
Cordless for boats, docks, and outdoor use. Corded for home cleaning stations.
I own both types. I use cordless while fishing. Corded when I get home.
6. How do I prevent fish scales from damaging the motor?
Clean the knife immediately after use. Don’t let scales dry on the motor housing.
Use a soft brush to remove debris from air vents and blade slots.
Never spray the motor housing directly with water.
7. Why does my electric fillet knife blade get stuck?
Usually because of dull blades or too much pressure.
Sharpen or replace the blade. Use lighter pressure when cutting.
Also check if there’s debris in the blade housing. Clean it out.
Final Thoughts
I’ve tested many electric fillet knives over the years. These three are the best I’ve found.
The Mershca is my go-to for fishing trips. View Price on Amazon
The five blades handle any fish I catch. The two batteries mean I never run out of power.
Yes, it costs more. But it’s worth it if you fish regularly.
The KastKing is perfect for home use. View Price on Amazon
That motor power is incredible. The price is unbeatable.
If you mainly clean fish at home, this is your best choice.
The LAUDLIFE offers the most versatility. View Price on Amazon
It’s lighter and works for multiple foods. Great for occasional anglers who want multi-use tools.
All three knives will make filleting easier and faster. You can’t go wrong with any of them.
Choose based on your needs:
- Fish often? Get the Mershca.
- Need power on a budget? Get the KastKing.
- Want versatility? Get the LAUDLIFE.
I hope this guide helps you find the perfect electric fillet knife. Happy fishing!