How to Use a Floating Knife for Fishing Safely

By Unplug. Connect. Outdoors. That's UCO | Published: 2026-10-28

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to use a floating knife for fishing, from safety checks to cutting line and cleaning catch. Get practical steps for marine knife use.

Quick Answer

Use a floating knife for fishing by first checking its floatability, then employing it for cutting fishing line, cleaning your catch, and performing other marine tasks. Always rinse and dry the blade after each use to prevent corrosion.

Why a Floating Knife Is Useful for Fishing

A floating knife is designed to stay on the water's surface if dropped, making it ideal for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing where losing a knife overboard is a real risk. Its lightweight build and corrosion-resistant blade help it perform reliably in wet environments without adding extra weight to your gear.

Limitations of a Floating Knife

Because a floating knife prioritizes buoyancy, it is typically lighter and has a smaller blade than a standard fixed-blade fishing knife. This makes it less suited for heavy-duty tasks like prying open shells or cutting through thick rope. For routine fishing chores such as cutting line or filleting small to medium fish, it is perfectly adequate.

How to Use a Floating Knife for Fishing: Step-by-Step

1. Perform a Safety Check: Before each use, inspect the blade for any nicks or rust and ensure the cork handle is dry and free of cracks. A damaged handle can compromise buoyancy. Check the handle's condition regularly; a cracked cork may not float as intended.
2. Cut Fishing Line Cleanly: Hold the line taut and use a single, smooth slicing motion with the blade at a slight angle. Avoid sawing back and forth, which can fray the line. A clean cut reduces the chance of a weak knot later.
3. Clean Your Catch: Make a shallow incision behind the gills and run the blade along the belly to open the cavity. Use the tip to remove entrails, keeping the blade pointed away from your body. Always cut away from yourself to avoid accidental slips.
4. Rinse and Dry Immediately: After use, rinse the entire knife with fresh water to remove salt and debris. Dry the blade and handle with a cloth before storing. Saltwater accelerates corrosion; rinsing after every trip extends the knife's life.
5. Store in a Safe Location: Place the knife in a sheath or a dedicated dry compartment in your tackle box. Never leave it loose in a boat where it can slide overboard or cause injury. A floating knife only helps if you drop it; secure storage prevents accidents.

Product Feature: Floating Knife

FLOATING KNIFE - STAINLESS: Morakniv Floating Knife features a natural cork handle that keeps the knife on the water's surface, preventing accidental loss. You can work confidently over the water without worrying about your knife sinking if it slips from your hand.
FLOATING KNIFE - STAINLESS