Choosing the Right NRS Knife for Kayak Fishing

Every kayak angler should have a reliable knife on their PFD, whether you're a tournament angler or a recreational angler. A quality knife is necessary to cut fishing lines, handle a tangled anchor rope, or respond to an emergency. Thankfully, NRS offers a strong lineup of knives built for anglers, and knowing which one suits your fishing style best can make your time on the water safer and more efficient.

A knife isn't just for emergencies; it's about being prepared for any scenario while on the water. Cutting tangled fishing lines and ropes or being able to cut free quickly could prevent a bad situation from getting worse. Having a sharp, easy-to-access knife designed for the water is smart kayak fishing.

Learn more about why you should always carry a safety knife while kayak fishing here!

Pilot Knife

The NRS Pilot Knife offers a bit more blade and a contoured grip, making it a go-to option for kayak anglers who want more utility. It features a stainless steel blade with straight and serrated edges, a blunt safety tip doubling as a flat-head screwdriver, and a square valve hole as a wrench. The Pilot is a practical upgrade for anglers for virtually any scenario, measuring 7.25" with a 3.6" blade length. The sheath system allows one-handed drawing while keeping the knife secure until you need it, easily pairing it with your favorite NRS PFD. For saltwater anglers, check out the NRS Titanium Pilot Knife, which utilizes the same great features but with an even lighter corrosion-resistant design.

Co-Pilot Knife

The NRS Co-Pilot Knife is a favorite among minimalist anglers and paddlers who value space-saving design. It measures only 6" in total length. Widely known as the little brother to the Pilot Knife, its compact blade features a serrated and smooth edge for versatile cutting power. The blunt tip adds safety for close-quarters use and the molded sheath mounts cleanly to most PFD lash tabs. Much like the Pilot, the NRS Titanium Co-Pilot is available to provide a lightweight, corrosion-resistant design. These knives are ideal for a reliable Pilot design, but in a compact package.

Pilot SAR Knife

For anglers who fish in fast-moving rivers, colder conditions, or higher-risk areas, the NRS Pilot SAR Knife offers a more aggressive build. It measures 8" in total length and features a 3.6" stainless steel serrated blade, a blunt tip, a glass-breaking tip, and a molded handle designed for gloved use. While built with search-and-rescue in mind, the SAR's heavy-duty construction easily attaches to your PFD. It is excellent for cutting through thick rope, heavy braid, or nets and is ideal for anglers who need maximum cutting performance in harsh environments.

Pilot Access Folding Knife

The NRS Pilot Access Folding Knife is ideal if you prefer a folding blade that meets paddlesport standards. Its compact 7.25" frame features a lightweight folding design with a 2.75" stainless steel blade. This blade has a partially serrated edge, a blunt tip, and a thumb stud for easy one-handed opening. It features a four-position carry clip installed on your PFD, a tackle bag, or a pocket. The Pilot Access is a smart backup or main blade if you're looking for portability without sacrificing cutting power.

Conclusion

Whether you want a compact knife like the Co-Pilot, a balanced option like the Pilot, a folding blade for flexibility, or the SAR for more intense conditions, NRS has a knife that fits your kayak fishing setup. The right knife adds safety, confidence, and efficiency while on the water, making it a small but crucial part of your gear. Check out the variety of NRS knives available at Fishing Online here!