Best fish scales of 2024

Whether you are looking for world records, personal bests or simply want to gain an accurate insight into the weight of the fish you catch, an accurate and durable fishing scale is a necessary addition to your fishing bag.

The “De-Liars” of the past gave anglers a very general idea of ​​the weight of their fish, but were hardly reliable in terms of accuracy. These days, however, there are a wealth of options, whether you need something simple for yourself, something to ensure you bring your best tournament bag, or a gift for a friend whose frequent “10-pound bass” requires independent verification. Here are some of the best fish scales for different uses.

How we chose the best fish scales

The two worst things a scale can do is give you the wrong weight and break it when you need it most. That’s why I tested this scale for accuracy, durability and waterproofness. I have also selected scales with a long track record of reliability and accuracy.

Best fish scales: reviews and recommendations

Best Overall: Brecknell ElectroSamson scale

Most important features

• 22 and 55 pound models
• Padded carrying bag
• LCD Display
• Powered by a 9 volt battery
• Can be calibrated NIST standards

Plus points

• Extremely accurate and consistent
• Long battery life
• The screen is easy to read at all sunlight levels

Cons

• Not good for really monstrous fish

I’ve been lugging a Brecknell scale around the world for almost a decade, and other than preventative battery replacement, it has required no maintenance. It remains true – even after countless rough boat rides and baggage handlers. Some reviewers claim it doesn’t handle water well, but mine has survived numerous floods and the occasional rain shower with no ill effects. I like the auto shut-off feature to extend battery life. It is neatly packaged and safely assembled within seconds. The 55-pound version comes with a fishing grab instead of the J-hook. If you get the lighter model, I highly recommend adding one so you don’t rip a fish’s mouth open or drop it off the hook. It’s also worth noting that MLF uses Brecknell Scales in their tournaments, where ounces can mean thousands of dollars.

Best for Bass Tournament Anglers: Bubba Pro Series

Most important features

• Measure fish up to 60 pounds
• Accuracy of +/- 0.3%
• IPX7 waterproof
• 1 rechargeable lithium polymer battery
• Holds up to 8 fish and total catch weight
• Heavy clamp

Plus points

• Programmable for different tournament needs
• Smart culling function
• Backlit screen, ideal for low-light conditions
• The robust clamp holds the fish firmly

Cons

• An information-rich screen can be complicated for anglers who only want the weight of one fish

Tournament anglers need to know the individual and cumulative weights of the fish in their enclosures to make quick and accurate cull decisions. The accidental loss of even one ounce can cause you to miss out on a win and the dollars that come with it. This scale is made precisely for the needs of bass anglers. Of course, it can also weigh other fish, but it’s a mini computer that helps you quickly get rid of your smallest fish and get back to casting. It is also the official scale of MLF tournaments.

Bubba has one cheaper version of this scale, ideal for fishermen who want to weigh their fish.

Best Spring Scale: Chatillon IN series linear fish and game bowls

Most important features

• Brass construction
• Numerous versions from up to 2 pounds to up to 100 pounds
• Pounds/ounces and metric measurements
• Embossed scale

Plus points

• Good for record seekers
• Long-term accuracy
• Can be certified for world records

Cons

• J-hook fish holder not necessarily safe.

Unlike an electronic scale, which can unexpectedly go out of sync, a spring scale maintains its reliability even after prolonged use and abuse. They may be simple, but they are virtually bulletproof, and this is one of the best fish scales around certified by the IGFA for record search purposes. Whether you are hunting small fish that require small gradations or much larger specimens, one of the 11 different sizes will suit your needs. I have also seen sailfish captains and mates in Latin America use this scale to test the drag on their reels to ensure maximum hookups and landings. They are exceptionally resistant to salt water and contain the best components.

Best for Toothy Critters: Boga grip

Most important features

• Capacity of 15, 30 and 60 pounds
• Weighs in increments of 4 or 8 ounces
• Comfortable foam grip and cord

Plus points

• Exceptionally robust
• Gets a firm grip on the striking fish and doesn’t let go
• Can be sent to IGFA for certification

Cons

• Anglers who like extreme accuracy may prefer digital weights

My Boga works fine on local “basic” species like bass when I just want an accurate weight, but it has really taken a shine on trips to the Amazon and for saltwater species, where their strength portends possible danger or injury. On a payara trip in Brazil, our guide had a cheaper version, and when a 10-pounder struck, the claws holding the fish bent outward, leaving a flopping prehistoric creature at the bottom of the boat. With the Boga we had no such problems, even with fish weighing almost three times as much. The simple one-handed operation remains functional even after bouncing through rapids or being pushed around in my luggage, and without any maintenance required. I’m not a record hunter, but if I were, I’d get mine certified.

Best for Big Fish: Battery Cull 110lb with fish grip

Most important features

• Weighs fish up to 110 pounds
• Illuminated LCD screen
• Operates on two AAA batteries
• Low battery display

Plus points

• Can handle large fish safely
• Water resistant for tough conditions
• Weighs huge fish in 1/100 pound increments

Cons

• The basic version does not have a fish clamp

Many quality scales will weigh fish up to 15 or 30 pounds, but beyond that it’s difficult to find one that’s durable, accurate, and built through and through to handle huge catches. This one, especially if you buy the version with the full-size fishing grip, is up to the task. It is robust, has a handle that allows you to lift it with two hands and automatically locks the weight with an audible beep after a second and a half. It also has other functions, such as automatic shut-off and measuring the outside temperature, but its most essential purpose is to actually put on weight for large fish and then get them back into the water. When weighing large fish, do not hold them by their jaws as this may damage them. Instead, I recommend a fishing cradle or your net for weighing fish such as musky.

Things to Consider Before Buying One of the Best Fish Scales

Purpose of weighing the fish

Different anglers have different needs when purchasing a scale. For some of us, it’s just confirmation that we didn’t stare wide-eyed at our catch and then inadvertently lie to our friends. For others, it’s making sure they throw away their smallest fish on tournament day to present the largest possible limit to the weighmaster. Still, others need a tool that can be used to backup a state or world record application. Find the one that suits you best.

Size of the fish

Different scales have different maximum weights and different increments in which they are measured. You don’t have to go overboard, but just make sure you exceed your maximum possible catch so you don’t hit rock bottom and return with an unverifiable fishing story. If you need precision, hundreds of pounds or kilograms are better than 4 or 8 ounce increments.

Accuracy

Repeatedly test your scale for accuracy, measuring a range of familiar items, such as exercise weights or kitchen items. You may look funny using it in the meat section of the supermarket, but this is serious business. If it is not correct, please return it or replace it.

Sustainability

Anything with electronics can react negatively to shock. If you’ll be taking bumpy boat rides or packing the scale in your luggage, buy one that’s bulletproof and replace the simple included cover with something padded if necessary. In the heat of the moment it’s easy to mishandle it, but a little prevention will keep a quality scale going for a long time.

Final thoughts on the best fish scales

The best fishing scales provide accurate weights and will last for years of heavy use. Choose the scale that best suits your needs and buy the best one you can afford.