Nippers: Fly Fishing’s Controversial Gear

Nippers draw more ire than any other piece of fly fishing gear. The reason? Anglers are very opinionated regarding how much one should spend on this relatively simple piece of equipment.
The nipper is a simple instrument. It cuts leader material and should include a small needle for clearing out hook eyes.
You can procure an implement that fulfills all the aforementioned requirements for around $10. Some say that is too much. Others are fine spending ten times that amount. Again, opinions are strong. Stronger than what is necessary, in my humble opinion.
Today I share a quick video with six different nipper options, ranging from $3-$100. Hopefully it helps you think about what the best option is for your fishing and your budget.
Check out the different models in the video here:
castingacross....

[@JustinCarf]

How come you didn’t talk about using your teeth? I like to coat my tippet in chocolate. It makes it so much more enjoyable for me when cutting.

[@michaelperine2333]

My hemostat has a pair of scissors built in. Why carry a nipper at all?

[@castingacross]

It sounds like you found a good do-it-all option.

[@Mntnere]

Orvis nipper are the best. Also have Umpqua which are carbon steel and you can ReSharpen

[@castingacross]

You make a great point about sharpening. As a culture, we've lost an appreciation for sharpening everything from knives to nippers. It makes a huge difference!

[@Mntnere]

@@castingacross thanks for the reply. I still really like the orvis but carry about 3 pair every outing

[@TheBeefSlayer]

6$ Amazon nippers w nail knot tool, file, rubber grip, hook eye cleaning tool, and sharp nips that could cut glass. Happy so far… let ya know after I use em…. Not really though….

[@263sparky3]

Still using a child nail clippers. Been using the same ones now for about 30 years with absolutely no issues. Pocket knife works good to

[@castingacross]

Child nail clippers do have that nice, bulky handle. That is preferable to the tiny ones most people like!

[@michaellacy8510]

I have tried over a dozen kinds of nippers over the years. All have disappointed me in some way. None have worked any better than the nail clippers I used as a kid. Of course I'd be laughed off the water with those now. And I won't spend $100 on nippers. No way. But they probably are the best performers.

[@castingacross]

Plenty of guys still use nail clippers. There's no shame in them at all!

[@hikesteepfishhigh]

I found pair of Abel nippers on a fishing trip several years ago. I would never have spent the money they cost but now that I own them, yeah I would spend the money for them. they are worth it.

[@castingacross]

I do think that a lot of people balk at the price tag without giving things a chance. Some might still turn nice nippers down, but others will be willing to spend the money.

[@seannnfranco]

honestly this was really helpful! you are super clear and thorough (: thank you brother

[@castingacross]

You're welcome!

[@adventureswithfrodo2721]

I perfer DR Slick scissor forcepts.

[@castingacross]

Great point: nippers are only one way to nip stuff!

[@brycealthoff8092]

Something like that is a must for bass and pike fishing. We use a lot of heavy mono, fluoro and wire. Your little trout nippers just aren’t going to cut it. Pun not intended.

[@uv6483]

what did you call me