Pliers & Forceps
Westin Stainless Steel Forceps
Available in 3 sizes
Pliers & Forceps
What Are Pliers & Forceps and How Do They Work?
Pliers and forceps are essential fly fishing tools designed to help you grip, hold, cut, clamp, and control small tackle items with accuracy. In fly fishing, where hooks are often tiny, tippet can be ultra-fine, and fish welfare is a priority, the right tool makes a noticeable difference to both your efficiency and your catch-and-release handling.
Although they’re sometimes grouped together, pliers and forceps each bring something different to your kit. Pliers tend to be more robust, offering stronger gripping power for tougher jobs such as cutting heavier leader material or applying firm pressure when needed. Forceps are slimmer and more precise, often featuring a locking mechanism so you can maintain a steady grip on a hook without straining your hand.
For most fly anglers, forceps become the “always within reach” tool, clipped to a vest or pack, while pliers are a reliable backup for stronger cutting, gripping, and all-round utility. Both are a natural fit within a well-rounded selection of fly fishing tools and accessories, helping you stay organised and ready for changing conditions on the water.
How to Choose the Right Pliers & Forceps for Your Needs
The best pliers and forceps for fly fishing depend on your typical hook size, the species you target, and how you like to fish. A minimalist dry fly setup calls for lightweight, fine-tip control, while streamer fishing or heavy nymph rigs can benefit from a stronger, more versatile tool.
Forceps vs pliers: which do fly anglers use most?
Forceps are often the first choice for fly fishing because they offer precision and finesse. They’re ideal for removing small hooks cleanly, pinching barbs down, and holding flies steady while you work with fine tippet. Pliers are still extremely useful, especially when you want extra leverage, stronger cutting power, or a more substantial grip in cold and wet conditions.
Length and reach
Tool length matters more than many anglers expect. Shorter forceps are easy to carry and feel nimble when handling small trout flies, while longer forceps provide extra reach and control—particularly helpful when a fish is hooked awkwardly or you’re working around a landing net.
Locking mechanism (especially for forceps)
A locking clamp is one of the most valuable features on fly fishing forceps. It allows you to grip a hook securely without constant hand pressure, helping you unhook fish quickly and confidently. It’s also useful for steady, controlled tasks such as holding a fly while tightening knots or pinching down a barb before fishing.
Cutting performance for tippet and leader
Clean cuts are important in fly fishing. Crushing or fraying fine tippet can weaken knots and lead to lost fish. If you regularly use fluorocarbon tippet or heavier leaders, choose pliers with sharp cutters that stay effective over time.
Many anglers also carry dedicated cutting tools to speed up rigging and reduce bulk. Options like pliers & forceps are popular additions, particularly when you’re changing flies frequently.
Durability and corrosion resistance
Fly fishing tools spend their life in damp conditions, clipped to packs, exposed to rain, or dropped into wet grass at the bank. Corrosion-resistant materials help your tools last longer and operate smoothly. This becomes even more important if you fish frequently, travel between waters, or want tools you can trust season after season.
Comfort, grip, and carrying options
When your hands are cold or wet, a secure grip makes every job easier—from unhooking fish to trimming tags. Comfortable handles also reduce fatigue on long days. For quick access, many fly anglers clip tools to their vest using zingers and retractors, keeping them secure without rummaging through pockets.
To help you narrow down your choice, here’s a quick fly fishing-focused guide to matching tools to common scenarios:
| Fly fishing scenario | Recommended tool | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Dry fly and light tippet fishing | Fine-tip locking forceps | Delicate unhooking and precise control around small hooks |
| Nymphing with droppers | Forceps + sharp cutters | Managing tags, knots, and fast hook removal in complex rigs |
| Streamers and larger flies | Strong fly fishing pliers | Extra leverage for grip, cutting, and hook control |
| Catch-and-release focused sessions | Locking forceps | Quick, low-stress unhooking and safer fish handling |
Top Pliers & Forceps Brands and Models at Uttings
At Uttings, you’ll find fly fishing pliers and forceps that suit everyone from first-time trout anglers to experienced fishers who want dependable performance in all conditions. Choosing quality tools means smoother operation, cleaner cuts, and faster hook removal—exactly what you want when fish are feeding and time matters.
Gerber is a great choice if you value rugged construction and dependable real-world performance. Their tools are designed to handle repeated use and provide confidence when you need a firm grip and reliable cutting ability.
Loon is a fly fishing favourite, known for practical tools built around precision and ease of use. If you want forceps that feel natural in the hand and make delicate tasks simpler, Loon is a strong brand to consider.
Westin offers fishing-focused designs that suit anglers who want strength and functionality in one tool. For fly fishers who mix techniques, target larger species, or simply prefer a more robust feel, Westin tools can be an excellent addition to the kit.
Pliers & Forceps Tips and Expert Advice
Fly fishing success often comes down to small details done well. Pliers and forceps help you manage those details efficiently, so you spend less time adjusting tackle and more time presenting flies effectively.
Unhook fish quickly and confidently
Using forceps properly can reduce handling time and support better catch-and-release outcomes. A steady grip on the hook helps you remove it cleanly, even when the fish is lively, and keeps your fingers safely away from hook points.
Pinch barbs down for easier hook removal
If you’re fishing with barbed flies, pinching the barb down before you start can make hook removal significantly faster. Forceps are ideal for this job because they offer controlled pressure without damaging the hook shape.
Make clean cuts to protect knot strength
When tying flies onto fine tippet, a clean cut is more than just neatness—it helps knots bed down correctly and reduces weak points. If your cutters start to crush or fray material, it’s a sign to switch to sharper tools or add dedicated cutters such as nippers to your kit.
Keep tools accessible while wading
Wading often means working quickly with limited space. A clipped tool is easier to reach than one buried in a pocket, and it reduces the risk of dropping it in fast water. Many anglers rely on zingers and retractors to keep forceps secure and always ready.
Look after tools to extend their lifespan
A quick dry-off after use helps prevent corrosion and keeps joints moving freely. If you fish frequently, occasional cleaning and careful storage can make the difference between tools that last a season and tools that last for years.
Why Buy Pliers & Forceps at Uttings
When you buy pliers and forceps from Uttings, you’re choosing a retailer with genuine outdoor expertise and a long-standing reputation for quality. We’re a family-run business based in Norwich, established in 1976, with decades of experience in outdoor and field sports retail.
We stock premium products from the world’s leading brands, backed by over 45,000 five-star reviews on Trustpilot. With expert customer service, fast delivery, and a genuine passion for the great outdoors, Uttings helps you choose fly fishing tools with confidence—whether you’re learning the basics or refining a well-used kit.
Pliers & Forceps FAQs
What are fly fishing forceps used for?
Fly fishing forceps are mainly used for safe hook removal, pinching down barbs, and holding small flies or hooks securely when tying knots or making adjustments.
Are locking forceps better for fly fishing?
Yes. A locking mechanism keeps a steady grip without constant hand pressure, which helps with unhooking fish efficiently and handling hooks more safely.
What length forceps should I choose for trout fishing?
Short to mid-length forceps suit most trout fishing because they’re easy to carry and offer enough reach for controlled hook removal without feeling bulky.
Can fly fishing pliers cut fluorocarbon tippet?
Some can, but not all cutters perform the same. If you fish fluorocarbon regularly, choose pliers with sharp, durable cutters for clean cuts and reliable knots.
Do I need pliers if I already have forceps?
Forceps cover most fly fishing tasks, but pliers add extra gripping power and cutting versatility, especially when fishing larger hooks, heavier leaders, or streamers.
How do I carry forceps while wading?
Clipping forceps to your vest or pack using a retractor keeps them secure and instantly accessible, which is ideal when unhooking fish in moving water.
Should I pinch barbs down for catch-and-release fly fishing?
Many anglers do. Pinching barbs down can speed up hook removal, reduce stress on fish, and improve safety when handling lively fish at close range.
What’s the best way to prevent rust on fly fishing tools?
Dry tools after use and store them somewhere ventilated. If they’ve been exposed to lots of moisture, a quick rinse and dry helps preserve smooth operation.
What other fly fishing tools pair well with pliers and forceps?
Nippers, scissors, knot tools, and retractors work particularly well alongside pliers and forceps, helping you rig faster and keep essential tools close to hand.