After fishing for any length of time, you quickly learn that there are a few must-have tools in your tackle box. Pliers, scissors, and a knife are mandatory on just about every fishing trip I go on. As I switch between kayak and bank fishing, I always seem to misplace a tool, so when I saw the EGO FireSteel Fishing Tool Set, I knew I needed at least one.
This kit comes with pliers, scissors, a fillet knife, a fish gripper, and a hook remover. I’ve had it in my tackle box for about 5 months now and have used it on numerous kayak and bank fishing trips.
In short: The EGO FireSteel Fishing Tool Kit is a must-have for every angler because it has all the quality essentials, without the unnecessary tools, at an unbeatable price. This tool set has gotten me out of more than one jam, made quick work of cutting lines, and saved fish that swallowed the hook. However, I found a significant drawback that could keep you from purchasing it.
The EGO FireSteel Fishing Tool Set caught my attention immediately because it bundled tools I already used. My versions, though, lived in different places, split between my kayak and bank-fishing gear. At first, the kit seemed like an easy way to dedicate one setup to one style of fishing, but it has since changed how I organize both.
What’s Included & First Impressions
The kit includes the EGO vice grip tool, Ultra hook remover, utility scissors, 7” pliers and sheath, 7” fillet knife and sheath, and multitool lanyard. Upon first inspection, everything looked and felt great in my hands.
I like that the kit uses more than plastic, and the plastic pieces feel durable. However, what matters most is how well the tools function while fishing.
On-the-Water Performance
I’ve used each tool in this kit, but not on every trip. I use the pliers and scissors most often, nearly every time I’m on the water, to cut line, tie on lures, and remove hooks. I connected the multitool lanyard to the scissors so I wouldn’t lose them, and the 36” extension ensures I can cut anything within arm’s reach.
I don’t shy away from bringing home a few fish for dinner, especially while crappie fishing, but I rarely have a fillet knife, until now. The 7” EGO fillet knife is great for filleting crappie, bluegill, and bass.
The handle feels comfortable in my hand and doesn’t slip, even when my hands are wet. While I still prefer an electric fillet knife when cleaning a bunch of fish, this one works great in a pinch or for a few fish.
Sometimes, I only want to catch and release, but the fish swallows my hook. That’s when the EGO ultra hook remover saves the day (and the fish). The long tube easily reaches down the throat of most fish and quickly clamps down on the embedded hook. It’s much easier to safely remove a deep hook with the Ultra hook remover than by hand or using pliers. This handy tool has saved more than a few fish I’ve caught.
The vice grip tool is great for holding bigger fish, such as catfish and bass, to quickly take a picture, weigh, or remove a hook. I don’t use it on every outing, but I’m always glad to have it when I need it.
What the Tool Kit Does Well
The EGO FireSteel Fishing Tool Set has done everything I’ve asked of it at a reasonable price. I haven’t needed another tool set for kayak or bank fishing, whether I’m bringing fish home for dinner or practicing catch-and-release. The tools are well-built and should last me many years of fishing.
Where I See Room for Improvement
Honestly, there’s not much this toolkit needs to improve on. I wouldn’t mind seeing a scale and cutting board provided with it, but EGO offers those tools separately or in other kits. The scale would also drastically increase the price (which is currently reasonable).
Who Should Buy the Tool Kit
Every angler I know would benefit from owning the EGO FireSteel Fishing Tool Kit. Each tool is well constructed and actually useful. EGO didn’t add any unnecessary tools just to jack up the price. I’ve used the tools to help save fish and bring them home for dinner because this kit covers the spectrum of most anglers.
I love the EGO FireSteel Fishing Tool Set because it’s priced well, has held up to the abuse of kayak and bank fishing, and has every tool an angler needs to get started fishing. After testing this kit, I’m seriously considering picking up more EGO fishing tools for my fly fishing bag.
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