XTRM CRAFT Fishing Forceps, Kelly Hemostat 5.5 and 6.25 Inches, Straight and Curved Stainless Steel Review (2026)

Who benefits from a straight and curved pair

Most fly anglers only need one hemostat for pinching barbs and backing hooks out of a trout's jaw, but carrying both a straight and a curved tool covers more situations with one purchase. The 5.5 inch straight forceps handles everyday dry fly and nymph hook removal, while the longer 6.25 inch curved forceps reaches deeper for streamer hooks or fish that have taken a fly further back. Anglers who fish a mix of small dries and larger streamer patterns, or who guide and need to help multiple clients quickly, get more use out of having both lengths and both jaw shapes on hand. A minimalist angler who ties on size 18 dries exclusively may find a single small hemostat sufficient and this two piece set more tool than needed.

Materials and build quality

Both forceps are hot-drop forged from medical-grade stainless steel, which is the same forging process used for surgical hemostats and gives the jaws resistance to bending or snapping under the pressure anglers apply when backing out a stubborn hook. The steel resists rust from repeated exposure to river water and humid wading gear bags, an important trait since cheaper plated tools can pit and seize at the pivot after a season. Locking jaws use a three-tooth ratchet mechanism that lets an angler dial in how tightly the forceps grip, useful for holding a fly steady while trimming thread or for a firm hold on a hook without crushing delicate hackle. The finish and forging process reference the same manufacturing standards used in surgical instrument production.

On the water and at the vise

Beyond hook removal, forceps like these do double duty for fly anglers, pinching split shot onto leader, straightening a bent hook point, and clamping small materials while tying flies at a vise. The large finger loops make them usable with cold, wet hands or light gloves, a real advantage during early season fishing when fingers are numb. Because the jaws lock closed, they can also serve as a small clamp to hold a fly steady during quick streamside repairs. For care, a rinse in fresh water after use and an occasional drop of light oil at the pivot point keeps the ratchet mechanism moving smoothly and prevents the stainless steel from developing surface spotting over repeated wet and dry cycles.

Trade-offs and how it compares

The obvious trade-off is that a two-tool set is bulkier and costs more than a single hemostat, and anglers who already own a favorite forceps may not need a second pair. Against named rivals in the same category, the Dr. Slick Clamp is a well known 5 inch single straight forceps from a dedicated fly fishing tool brand with a strong reputation among guides, while locking scissor forceps combine a hemostat with built in line cutters for anglers who want one multi-function tool instead of a matched pair. XTRM CRAFT is a newer name in fishing gear specifically, though the hot-forged stainless construction and surgical-grade sourcing put it in the same quality tier as established fishing tool brands for this style of forceps.

Verdict and who should choose differently

This set makes sense for anglers who want one purchase that covers both quick, everyday hook removal and the occasional deeper reach for a streamer-eaten fly, all in durable, corrosion resistant stainless steel. The locking ratchet jaws and large finger loops make them practical in cold or wet conditions on the water. Anglers who prefer a single trusted tool from a long-established fly fishing brand, or who want a forceps with an integrated line cutter, should look at options like the Dr. Slick Clamp or a locking scissor forceps instead. For most trout and general freshwater anglers, having both lengths on a lanyard is a small convenience that pays off across a season of varied fishing.

Frequently asked questions