How to Use a Fish Stringer

What Is a Fish Stringer?

A fish stringer is a simple tool used to keep caught fish alive and fresh in the water while you continue fishing. It’s essentially a line, wire, or chain that you thread through each fish’s gills or mouth, then secure to your boat, dock, or belt loop.

Stringers come in a few styles:

• Rope Stringers – a cord with a loop and metal spike.

• Chain Stringers – a metal chain with individual clips for each fish.

• Cable Stringers – coated wire with a locking clasp for durability.

Grim Workshop’s compact, flat-packed gear can easily pair with paracord or other cordage allowing you to improvise a stringer anywhere.

Why Use a Fish Stringer?

A fish stringer is one of the most efficient and natural ways to store fish until you’re ready to clean them:

• Keeps fish alive longer, preserving flavor and texture.

• Saves cooler space when fishing from shore or kayak.

• Allows for catch-and-keep control, so you can decide which fish to keep later.

• Reduces spoilage—fresh, circulating water is the best refrigeration.

• Hands-free storage, letting you keep fishing without worry.

How to Use a Fish Stringer (Step-by-Step)

1. Choose a Safe Spot to Secure the Stringer

Before you start, find a sturdy place to tie or clip your stringer:

• On shore: anchor it to a log, rock, or stake.

• From a boat or kayak: clip to a cleat, ring, or frame (never your body).
  Make sure it’s long enough for fish to stay fully submerged but not tangled.

---

2. Thread the First Fish

Take the pointed spike or clip at the end of the stringer and push it through the fish’s lower jaw and out through the mouth.

• Avoid threading through the gills if you can, it damages the fish faster.

• For rope-style stringers, pass the spike through and loop it back through the eyelet to secure.

If using a chain-style stringer, simply clip one of the hooks to the fish’s jaw.

---

3. Add More Fish

For multiple catches:

• Space fish evenly along the line to keep them from tangling or biting each other.

• Ensure each fish can move freely in the water.

• Don’t overcrowd—fish need circulation to stay alive longer.

---

4. Keep the Stringer in Cool, Circulating Water

Submerge the stringer in deeper, cooler water where the current flows gently. Avoid stagnant, shallow areas—warm water will kill fish quickly.

If fishing in saltwater or near docks, check that no predators (like turtles or seals) can reach your catch.

---

5. Retrieve and Secure Your Catch

When you’re done fishing, carefully pull up the stringer. Be mindful of sharp fins or spines as you remove each fish.
If you plan to clean them, do so immediately after removing them from the water.

Bonus Uses for a Fish Stringer

• Improvised Gear Hanger – dry out gloves, clothes, or camp cookware.

• Underwater Anchor Line – secure traps, small gear, or improvised markers.

• Cordage Substitute – if made from paracord or cable, it doubles as strong lashing or tie-down line.

• Emergency Game Carrier – can carry rabbits, birds, or small game in survival situations.

Safety Tips

• Never attach a fish stringer to yourself in the water—a struggling fish can pull or attract predators or get tangled.

• Use a carabiner or clip for quick release in emergencies.

• Keep stringers clean and dry after use to prevent mildew or rust.

• Inspect regularly—frayed rope or corroded clips can cost you your catch.

Complete Your Kit

Pair your Fish Stringer Setup with:

• Grim Cordage Maker Tool for improvised rope stringers → Explore All Cordage Tools

• Grim Fishing Hooks  for catching your next meal → Explore All Fishing Tools

• Grim Knife Tool or Firefly Blade for cleaning your catch → All Tools with Knives

• How to Clean a Fish - → Learn how to clean a fish

• Tools with Fish Stringers - → Tools that include a fish stringer
  
  
  

FAQ: Using a Fish Stringer

Q: What’s the best type of stringer for beginners?
A simple rope or coated cable stringer is easiest to use and maintain. Chain stringers work well for multiple fish but can tangle easily.

Q: How long can fish stay alive on a stringer?
Most fish will stay alive and fresh for up to several hours in cool, moving water. Avoid leaving them overnight.

Q: Can I use a stringer from a kayak?
Yes—but use a short line or retractable clip. Keep it on the opposite side of your paddling arm to avoid tangles.

Q: Should I put the stringer through the gills or mouth?
Through the lower jaw and out the mouth is best. Through the gills shortens the fish’s life.

Q: How do I clean a fish stringer?
Rinse with fresh water, then air dry. A quick wipe of oil or wax can prevent rust on metal parts.

 

---

© 2025 Grim Workshop®. All Rights Reserved.
Grim Workshop® and Survival Cards® are registered trademarks of Grim Workshop.
(Grim Workshop® Original Reusable Tool Retention System • Proprietary Design • © 2025 All Rights Reserved)