There’s something special about fishing in Canada. The untouched water, the variety of species, and the reality that your next cast could be anything from a chunky walleye to a giant muskie. That’s exactly what happened during a recent trip to Pipestone, where a routine retrieve turned into a drag-screaming surprise, a giant northern pike that inhaled the bait right under the boat.
Turns out it was a big, toothy Canadian predator, the kind that reminds you that fishing up north means coming prepared. And when it comes to handling pike and muskie, it’s not just about your rod and reel; it’s about having the right tools on land, unhook and release fish safely.
Here are four must-have Bubba tools that belong in every Canadian multi-species tackle kit. 
Bubba 6.5″ Stainless Steel Pliers
When you’re boat-side with a big pike that just thrashed its way through a deep hookset, you need pliers you can trust: no flex, no slip, no rust.
The Bubba 6.5″ Stainless Steel Pliers are built for precision and control, whether you’re popping a treble out of a shallow-hooked pike or crimping barbs before a long day of casting for muskie.
Why they’re essential:
- Marine-grade stainless steel resists rust and corrosion
- Comfortable, non-slip grip for secure handling even with wet gloves
- Strong jaw pressure for removing embedded hooks quickly and safely
- Ideal size for medium species like walleye and average-sized pike
These are the pliers you want clipped to your belt or stashed in the side pocket, ready at all times.
Bubba Pistol Grip Stainless Steel Pliers
For deeper hooksets or fish that don’t want to open wide, the Bubba Pistol Grip Pliers offer a game-changing angle and reach. Especially helpful when dealing with larger predators like muskie or trophy pike, the pistol grip gives you better leverage and control in awkward positions.
Why they’re essential:
- Angled design improves reach and ergonomics
- Lets you work around sharp teeth without risking your hand
- Perfect for unhooking fish in tight spaces or deep jaw pockets
- Excellent for use with jaw spreaders on muskie
If you’re planning to chase true giants, a pistol grip pair is the safer, smarter choice, especially when fish are hooked deep or thrashing in the net.
Bubba 7″ Wire Snips
Sometimes, the safest and fastest way to unhook a fish is to cut the hook entirely, especially when you’re dealing with high-risk scenarios involving big trebles and heavy-duty hardware.
The Bubba 7″ Wire Snips make quick work of thick hooks, heavy wire leaders, and anything else standing between you and a safe release.
Why they’re essential:
- Cuts through heavy-gauge hooks with ease
- Saves time and stress when fish are hooked in sensitive spots
- Reduces injury risk to both angler and fish
- A must-have for muskie anglers using large baits
Cutting a hook is sometimes the most humane option — and it’s also the most efficient.
Bubba Hook Extractor
Pike and muskie are notorious for inhaling baits, and when a hook disappears down the hatch, you need a tool that can reach it safely.
The Bubba Hook Extractor is purpose-built for this exact scenario. With its long shaft and powerful grip, it helps you remove deeply set hooks without damaging the fish or your fingers.
Why it’s essential:
- Long reach for deep or awkward hook placements
- Precision grip allows for clean, controlled hook removal
- Keeps your hand far from sharp teeth and gill rakers
- Works with both single and treble hook rigs
This is the unsung hero in your release toolkit, especially when fish are feeding aggressively and swallowing baits deeper.
Don’t Go Without the Right Tools
Big pike and muskie are some of the most thrilling fish to catch, and the most challenging to handle. Having the right gear on your rod is only half the equation. When it comes time to land, unhook, and release these powerful predators, your success and safety depend on the tools in your boat.
These Bubba fishing tools are built for anglers who are serious about catching and caring for toothy fish.
If you’re planning a Canadian fishing trip, especially on multi-species waters like Pipestone, make sure your tool kit is as ready as your tackle box.
