Fish measuring tapes are a big deal for any fishing fan. Knowing the exact size of your catch isn’t just handy for fishing tournaments, but also for sticking to rules and keeping fishing sustainable. But, not all fish measuring tapes are made the same. It’s important to pick one that’s **tough, accurate, and easy to use**.
The best fish measuring tape should be resistant to water, wear, and tear. It should be made of high-quality, non-corrosive materials that can withstand the harsh conditions of a fishing environment. A clear and easy-to-read scale is also a key consideration as it is essential for accurately recording fish length. Furthermore, the tape should be flexible enough to measure a wide range of fish sizes and shapes.
When purchasing a fish measuring tape, it is also important to recognize key features. A good fish measuring tape should be retractable and easy to store. Some models also include additional features such as a built-in scale or integrated clip to secure the tape to your catch.
In this article, we will give you our expert advice on selecting the best fish measuring tape. We have spent numerous hours testing and researching various brands and models to determine the ones that offer superior performance. By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need to select a fish measuring tape that is reliable, accurate, and durable.
Best Fish Measuring Tape
Selecting the right fish measuring tape is just as important as choosing the correct fishing rod or reel. The tape needs to be durable, water-resistant, and have an easy-to-read scale, in addition to being flexible enough to measure a various range of fish sizes. With so many choices available on the market, finding the perfect match for your needs can be daunting. To assist you, we’ve put together a list of the best fish measuring tapes, backed by our extensive research and personal testing experience.
Rapala RRRUL60 60″ Retractable Ruler, One Size, Multi
If you’re looking for a versatile and accurate measuring tool for your fishing adventures, the Rapala RRRUL60 60″ Retractable Ruler is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The multi-use design with different scales makes it a great all-around tool for various fishing scenarios.
- The 60-inch length provides ample reach for measuring fish in a variety of situations.
- The strong and durable aluminum construction ensures years of reliable use.
Cons
- The sliding mechanism can be a bit stiff, making it difficult to slide out the ruler fully.
- The lack of a locking mechanism can cause the ruler to retract unexpectedly.
- The size and weight may not be ideal for those who prefer a more compact and lightweight tool.
We’ve used the Rapala RRRUL60 60″ Retractable Ruler for several fishing trips and have found it to be a reliable and accurate measuring tool. The multi-use design with different scales is especially useful for those who fish in different environments and for different species. The 60-inch length provides ample reach for measuring fish in a variety of situations, and the strong and durable aluminum construction ensures years of reliable use.
However, we did find the sliding mechanism to be a bit stiff, making it difficult to slide out the ruler fully. Additionally, the lack of a locking mechanism can cause the ruler to retract unexpectedly, which can be frustrating. Finally, the size and weight may not be ideal for those who prefer a more compact and lightweight tool.
Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile and accurate measuring tool for your fishing adventures, the Rapala RRRUL60 60″ Retractable Ruler is definitely worth considering.
WIN TAPE 80” / 205 CM Black Retractable Tape Measure with Black Rope
If you’re looking for a reliable and accurate tape measure, the WIN TAPE 80” / 205 CM Black Retractable Tape Measure with Black Rope is a great choice.
Pros
- The tape measure is made of durable materials, ensuring long-lasting use.
- The 80”/205CM length and 1”/2.54CM wide tape is perfect for measuring larger areas.
- The dual-sided markings make it easy to read measurements in both imperial and metric units.
Cons
- The lock button may stick or be difficult to use.
- The case may not be as durable as the tape measure itself.
- The price point may be higher than some other tape measures on the market.
This tape measure is perfect for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. The blade is made of durable and rust-resistant zinc alloy, ensuring long-lasting use. The tape measure is also impact and water-resistant, making it suitable for use in harsh environments.
The 80”/205CM length and 1”/2.54CM wide tape is perfect for measuring larger areas, while the dual-sided markings make it easy to read measurements in both imperial and metric units. The locking hook blade is strong and can withstand heavy use, while the low-profile and compact size makes it easy to store in a tool bag or belt loop.
Overall, the WIN TAPE 80” / 205 CM Black Retractable Tape Measure with Black Rope is a reliable and accurate tape measure that is perfect for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.
Eagle Claw FLEXIBLE TAPE MEASURE
If you’re looking for a durable and flexible measuring tape, the Eagle Claw FLEXIBLE TAPE MEASURE is a great option.
Pros
- The tape is thicker than most, which helps prevent rolls and kinking.
- The bright orange color makes it easy to find in a cluttered toolbox.
- The reinforced hook and sturdy plastic case ensure long-lasting durability.
Cons
- The lock button can be difficult to press, which can make it challenging to unlock the tape.
- The tape is not as long as some other measuring tapes on the market, which may limit its versatility.
- The numbers on the tape are relatively small, which can make them difficult to read from a distance.
We’ve used the Eagle Claw FLEXIBLE TAPE MEASURE for a variety of projects, and it has held up well. The thicker tape is a standout feature, as it helps prevent the tape from rolling or kinking. The bright orange color is also a nice touch, as it makes the tape easy to spot in a crowded toolbox.
One potential downside is the lock button, which can be difficult to press. This can make it challenging to unlock the tape when you need to measure something. Additionally, the tape is not as long as some other measuring tapes on the market, which may limit its versatility. Finally, the numbers on the tape are relatively small, which can make them difficult to read from a distance.
Overall, if you’re looking for a durable and flexible measuring tape, the Eagle Claw FLEXIBLE TAPE MEASURE is definitely worth considering.
Rapala Adhesive Fish Ruler 36 inch
If you’re looking for a durable and accurate fish ruler, the Rapala Adhesive Fish Ruler 36 inch is a great option.
Pros
- The high-grade adhesive ensures a strong and permanent bond to any smooth surface.
- The scale is accurate and easy to read, with a clear indication of the 14″ and 16″ increments.
- The fish ruler is waterproof and can be left in the elements without worrying about damage.
Cons
- The ruler is 36 inches long, which may be too long for some users.
- The adhesive may not work on all surfaces, so make sure the surface is smooth and dry before applying.
- The ruler is not repositionable once it has been applied.
The Rapala Adhesive Fish Ruler 36 inch is a great tool for anglers who want to measure their catches accurately. The high-grade adhesive ensures a strong and permanent bond to any smooth surface, making it easy to apply and remove. The scale is accurate and easy to read, with a clear indication of the 14″ and 16″ increments. Additionally, the fish ruler is waterproof and can be left in the elements without worrying about damage.
One potential downside of the Rapala Adhesive Fish Ruler 36 inch is its length. At 36 inches, it may be too long for some users. Additionally, the adhesive may not work on all surfaces, so make sure the surface is smooth and dry before applying. Finally, the ruler is not repositionable once it has been applied.
Overall, if you’re looking for a durable and accurate fish ruler, the Rapala Adhesive Fish Ruler 36 inch is a great option.
SF Fly Fishing Zinger Retractor with Retractable Measuring Tape Carabiner Style for Anglers Tools and Gears Holder Combo Black
If you’re looking for a versatile and reliable fly fishing retractor, the SF Fly Fishing Zinger Retractor with Retractable Measuring Tape Carabiner Style is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The built-in ruler is a convenient feature that allows you to quickly measure the length of your catch without needing to carry a separate measuring tool.
- The strong stainless steel cable with a weight of 30 lbs can handle a variety of fishing line weights, making it a versatile option for anglers.
- The compact size and lightweight design of the retractor make it easy to carry with you on the go, whether you’re fishing from a boat or hiking through the wilderness.
Cons
- The locking mechanism on the retractor can be a bit finicky and may take some practice to get the hang of.
- The included split ring may not be strong enough to handle heavier lures or flies, so you may need to replace it with a stronger option.
- While the built-in lanyard attachment point is a convenient feature, it may not be long enough to attach the retractor to some types of fishing vests or packs.
Overall, we’ve found the SF Fly Fishing Zinger Retractor with Retractable Measuring Tape Carabiner Style to be a reliable and convenient tool for fly fishermen of all skill levels. The built-in ruler is a particularly useful feature that sets this retractor apart from some of its competitors, and the strong stainless steel cable ensures that it can handle a variety of fishing line weights. While the locking mechanism may take some practice to get the hang of, and the included split ring may need to be replaced with a stronger option, we think that this retractor is a great value for its price and would recommend it to any fly fisherman looking for a versatile and reliable tool.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best fish measuring tape, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your purchase:
Material
The material of the measuring tape is an important consideration. Look for a tape made from durable and water-resistant materials such as stainless steel or plastic-coated steel. These materials will ensure that your measuring tape can withstand the elements and last for years to come.
Size
Consider the size of the measuring tape you need. If you plan on measuring larger fish, you may want to opt for a longer tape. However, keep in mind that longer tapes may be more difficult to handle and store.
Accuracy
Accuracy is crucial when it comes to measuring fish. Look for a tape with clear and easy-to-read markings, and make sure the tape is calibrated correctly. Some tapes even come with built-in scales to help you determine the weight of the fish.
Ease of Use
Finally, consider how easy the measuring tape is to use. Look for a tape with a sturdy handle that is comfortable to grip, and make sure the tape is easy to unfurl and rewind. Some tapes even come with built-in hooks or clips to help you secure the tape to the fish.
By considering these factors, you can find the best fish measuring tape to suit your needs.
