In the past, fish scales used to be bulky as they were mainly used for commercial fishing, However, with the development of technology, digital fish scales emerged and became more and more compact. Now you can easily carry them from one place to another. You can also use them in your kitchen for measuring and weighing other things apart from fish.
Nowadays, many households have fishing scales as people want to figure out the measurements and weight of the fish they bring in after a day’s hard work. Below, we have reviewed some fish scales so that you can make the decision with ease. Let’s look at the best digital fish scales that we have on the market in 2021.
Quick Overview – Best Digital Fish Scale
- Best All Around Digital Fish Scale: ReelSonar Digital Fish Scale Tape Measure and Fish Lip Gripper
- Best Value Digital Fish Scale: Dr.meter Digital Fish Scale with Measuring Tape
- Best Waterproof Digital Fish Scale: KastKing Waterproof Floating Digital Fishing Scale with No-Puncture Lip Gripper
Quick Comparison – Best Digital Fish Scales
Buying Guide
Shopping for a fish scale can seem overwhelming when both the online market as well as stores are flooded with so many options. However, we have come up with a list of considerations that you should keep in mind before purchasing a fish scale as these will help you make an informed decision on which scale to buy.
Purpose of the Fish Scale
Many a times people want to invest in a scale that can also be used for other purposes besides weighing fish.
For instance, someone may want to use it as a kitchen scale for weighing other foods and some might want to use it to weigh their luggage. In case you want a versatile fish scale that you need to use often then it is wise to invest in one which is robust as it will last for a longer time. You should go for sturdy stainless steel or aluminum ones that have a large weight range so that you are able to use it for a longer time without breaking.
You should also consider whether the fish scale comes with a fish lip gripper and a tape measure, which can actually be used to approximate the weight of a fish pretty decently by itself! The best digital fish scales with fish lip grippers have ones that are non-puncturing, so as to hurt the fish as little as possible when you plan to catch & release.
Readability of the Scale
The scale should be accurate and easy to read so that you know how much the fish weighs. Earlier the commercial scales were calibrated like thermometers and were difficult to read especially if the light was not adequate. However, the fishing scales available these days are digital and very easy to read, be it day or night. These scales have an LCD or LED display and reading how much your stuff weighs is easy as breeze.
The large digital fish scales used for measuring huge weights are more readable and precise when compared to the smaller fish scales. If you weigh fish for sale then it is all the more important to invest in a scale that is highly accurate. In that case, you need a scale that is able to read up to the smallest weight.
Weight Range
The digital fish scales available on the market come with a device that is called the load cell. This device helps in sensing and measuring the weight of the catch. It is better to go for a device whose weight range matches your fishing needs. For instance, if you catch fish that roughly weighs around five pounds then it is wise to invest in scale that has a weight range of up to 50 pounds. So, make the decision of buying a scale according to your fishing needs.
Source of Power
Most of the scales available in the market are digital scales that operate on battery. If you are planning to go out fishing for a few days then it is wise to get an extra set of batteries in case they run out. Make sure that batteries for the scale are easily available. Some people who go on fishing trips daily prefer manual scales that do not rely on batteries. So, the type of fish scale you opt for also depends on your frequency of fishing.
Cost
So many scales out there are available for little money, especially the plastic ones. However, they may not be as durable when compared to the scales made of stainless steel and aluminum. It is generally wise to invest in a scale that lasts longer as you won’t have to invest in a new one anytime soon. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the plastic and electronic garbage this produces 🙂
The Best Digital Fish Scale – Our Top Picks
The Best Digital Fish Scale
ReelSonar Digital Fish Scale Tape Measure and Fish Lip Gripper
Pros
- Large LCD screen that has a digital display
- Stainless steel hooks that are durable and rust free
- Fish lip grabber that can be detached
- Battery powered and lasts up to 500 hours.
- Auto shut-off functionality
Cons
- The scale might not work properly when the equipment is soaked in water
As a fishing enthusiast you are delighted to catch large fish. However, to know that you have caught really big fish you need a fish scale that helps you measure the size of the fish and its weight. This is where ReelSonar Digital Fish Scale will come in handy. The scale comes with a large LCD screen that has an easy to read display.
The hook of this scale is made up of stainless steel and is therefore durable and rust free. It also comes with a fish lip grabber that can be removed when you are not using it. The ReelSonar Digital Fish Scale is battery powered and lasts up to 500 hours with an auto shut-off feature that is instrumental in preserving the battery power.
Moreover, the ReelSonar Digital Fish Scale is a great option for a Holiday season gift for your friend or family member who loves ice fishing. It is because the person can go out and use it immediately.
Features & Specs
- 39 in built-in tape measure
- Maximum weight 99lb / 45kg
- Tare (net) weighing
The Best Value Digital Fish Scale
Dr.meter Digital Fish Scale with Measuring Tape
Pros
- Durable stainless-steel body
- Lightweight and portable
- Has precise weight sensor
- Can weigh fish up to 110 pounds
- Great value
Cons
- The hook is comparatively smaller so if you are weighing very large fish it might be a bit of a challenge
The Dr. meter Fishing Scale is popular for its accurate reading and can be used to weigh small as well as large fish. The weight sensor works very precisely and easily converts the weight of the fish from oz to kg to lb. The product comes in with a measuring tape that is used for calculating the size of the fish in centimeter or feet. You can measure fish as large as 3 feet with this fish scale.
The scale is made from high quality stainless steel and a large hook is concealed at the back of the equipment. It helps you to hook the fish and also remove it easily. Along with this, it comes with some exciting features such as data lock, weighing unit conversion, and auto-off function.
The light and compact design makes it portable and you can easily carry it from one place to another with the help of a built-in carrying strap. The manufacturer’s have included a set of 2 AAA batteries with this scale for your convenience. All in all, if you are looking for a no-frills, cheap digital fish scale, this is the one!
Features & Specs
- Weight range / Graduation: 110lb/50kg; 0~10kg: d=5g, 10-50kg: d=10g
- Weight units: kg, lb, oz
- Length range / unit: 1m; cm, in, ft
- Power: 2 x AAA battery(included)
- Blue LCD backlight, easy to read value at day and night
The Best Waterproof Digital Fish Scale
KastKing Waterproof Floating Digital Fishing Scale with No-Puncture Lip Gripper
Pros
- Lightweight scale that comes with a durable handle
- Includes an amazing no-puncture lip gripper
- Has dual mode digital weight measurements
- Waterproof
Cons
- No tape measure included. You would need to take this as an extra item
If you are looking for a scale that works efficiently when wet and even floats on water then you should invest in KastKing Waterproof Floating Digital Fishing Scale. Its amazing waterproof design helps it function in all weather conditions. The ABS handle is very strong and light in weight. The handle opening is wide providing a comfortable grip for different sizes of hands. If you want a scale that is lightweight and comfortable to carry from one place to another then you should consider this one, as the scale has a compact design and weighs just 5.6 ounces.
Want to convert lbs to kilos while weighing your catch? The dual mode digital measurements help you convert from one weight measurement unit to another by just a touch of a button. Moreover, this scale comes with a memory function so it will save up to 9 weights that you can refer any time. It also comes with a no-puncture lip gripper that enables you to weigh your catch without puncturing its jaw. You can use it separately or along with the scale for quickly weighing your catch. Also, you don’t have to worry about putting in batteries as they are included.
This digital scale was clearly designed with fishing in mind. The KastKing Waterproof Floating Digital Fishing Scale is a great, sustainable option as it is waterproof, does not hurt the fish due to its no-puncture gripper and it is durable, thus lasting you a long time without the need of being replaced anytime soon.
Features & Specs
- No-puncture fish lip gripper
- Memory function that stores up to 9 different weights at a time
Best Digital Fish Scale – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does a digital fish scale work?
Digital fish scales are very easy to operate weighing devices and are better than the conventional ones. Digital scales are equipped with a hook and a backlit display that digitally showcases the weight on a screen. If you are chasing large fish then it is better to go for the highest weight limit that is available on the market.
Why do digital scales fluctuate?
A digital scale may fluctuate in case the batteries are starting to get drained. Therefore, it is good practice to replace the batteries on time as it will help in measuring the weight accurately without any fluctuations.
Happy Fish Weighing
If you are a fishing enthusiast then a fish scale is a necessary equipment that you should carry with you to the river, lake, ocean or on the boat. It also helpful if you want to clean and cook or grill your catch. The digital scales are relatively cheaper and also good in terms of accuracy.
So, what are you waiting for? Invest in a good fishing scale according to your fishing needs and make sure you always have it in your tackle box.