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Get a Perfect Pike Fillet Every Time—Here’s How

Because a great catch deserves a great cut.

July 24, 2025

Northern pike are a favorite among freshwater anglers thanks to their fight and size—but filleting one can test even the most seasoned hands. The infamous Y-bones make pike a challenge to clean properly, often leading to wasted meat or bony bites. If you've ever wondered how to fillet a pike without frustration, this guide is for you. We’ll walk you through each cut, from first slice to boneless perfection, so you can get the most out of every catch.

The Top 10 Fillet Knives for Cleaning Fish

After a successful day of fishing, it's time to take home your haul and enjoy the fish you've caught. Before you can cook or store your fish, you'll need to properly clean your catch! Most experienced fishermen keep their best fishing fillet knife with their gear so that they can clean their fish on the go. Preparing your fish takes a special touch, and it also takes a proper fillet knife. From bleeding, scaling, gutting, to finally filleting your fish, you’ll need a sharp knife and a steady hand.

Feature

How to Fillet and Clean a Northern Pike (Video)

Most fishermen choose to release Northern Pike when caught because they are considered a 'bony' fish and not worth trying to fillet and eat.  In this video, Dave Knetter, shows us how to fillet and de-bone the Northern Pike.  If cleaned properly, they are a really good eating fish for the dinner table!

The Big Catch

Here they are—your catches, your stories, your proud moments on the water.
Submitted by you, shared by us. From record-setting lunkers to the ones that got away (but you got the photo!), every fish tells a tale. Big or small, it’s not just about the catch—it’s about the memory, the company, and the thrill of the fight. Thanks for letting us be part of your fishing story.

Keith is making the most of his 20 days at Tazin Lake Lodge 🎣

Dylie with one of the best-looking browns out there 🎣

Fishmasters

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About Us

At Fishmasters, we live for the tug on the line, the splash of the catch, and the stories told around the campfire. Whether you're casting off a backcountry dock, chasing trophies offshore, or just getting your feet wet, we're your go-to source for fishing tips, gear guides, and destination deep-dives. We blend real-world know-how with a passion for the great outdoors—because fishing isn’t just a hobby, it’s a lifestyle. Let’s make every cast count.