Wire fishing tools are essential for any electrician or DIY enthusiast tackling wiring projects. These tools help guide and retrieve wires through walls, ceilings, and tight spaces, making the installation and maintenance of electrical systems more accessible and efficient. Among the myriad of wire fishing tools available, selecting the best ones can save time and effort, ensuring that your project is done accurately and safely.
The practice of “fishing” wires involves guiding cables and wires through conduits, wall cavities, and other confined spaces in residential or commercial buildings. Using the correct wire fishing tools can make this process more manageable, even in the most complicated scenarios. From flexible rods and push-pull rods to magnetic wire fishing systems, there’s a wide range of specialized equipment designed for various applications and surfaces.
When choosing the best wire fishing tools for your needs, it is crucial to consider factors such as the range of application, the material and flexibility, ease of use, and durability. The right combination of tools will help you navigate walls with various insulation types, conduit lengths, and spaces with limited access. Moreover, a well-designed wire fishing tool can significantly reduce the risk of damaging your wires or the installation area.
To help you make an informed decision, we have thoroughly researched, tested, and compared various wire fishing tools on the market. Based on our findings, we present our top recommendations for the best wire fishing tools that will make your wiring projects easier, faster, and more efficient.
Best Wire Fishing Tools
We have compiled a list of the best wire fishing tools to make your wiring projects easier. Check out our top picks below.
Klein Tools 56331 Electrical Fish Tape
The Klein Tools 56331 Electrical Fish Tape is a reliable tool for wire fishing, providing a balance between flexibility and durability.
Pros
- Durable 1/8-inch wide steel tape
- Optimized housing design for better winding power
- Multi-position handle for steady grip
Cons
- May struggle with heavily insulated walls
- Coiling up can be challenging
- Slightly flimsy
During testing we used the Klein Tools 56331 Electrical Fish Tape to assist with routing wires through walls and conduit. The 50-foot steel tape is both firm and flexible, making it ideal for pulling large bundles of wire. Thanks to the optimized design of the tape housing, we found that it took less effort to pull the tape out and increased winding power.
One of the standout features of this fish tape is the multi-position handle, which allowed us to have a firm and steady grip while pulling the tape from the case. The descending laser-etched markings in 1-foot increments also were helpful for measuring distance more accurately, ensuring optimal conduit runs and remaining tape left to pay out. The high-impact resistant polypropylene case and handle made the tool feel sturdy in our hands.
However, we did notice a few drawbacks. The fish tape had some difficulty navigating walls with high insulation density. In addition, coiling the tape back up into the housing could be challenging at times, though the reel wind system helped to make this task easier. Some users might also perceive the tape as slightly flimsy, but it served us well for the wire pulls we needed to complete.
In conclusion, the Klein Tools 56331 Electrical Fish Tape is a solid option for those looking to purchase a wire fishing tool. While it has some limitations, its design and features make it a valuable addition to our toolbox.
Klein Tools 56335 Flat Steel Electrical Fish Tape
This 25-foot flat steel fish tape is ideal for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals due to its durability and slim design.
Pros
- Durable high carbon spring steel
- Moisture-resistant protective coating
- Laser etched 1-foot markings for accurate measurements
Cons
- Slim plastic tip might not be as flexible for small conduits
- May require some technique to use efficiently
- Limited to 25 feet in length
After some hands-on time with the Klein Tools 56335 Flat Steel Electrical Fish Tape, we found it to be a reliable and practical tool for wire fishing tasks. The high carbon spring steel is firm yet flexible, allowing us to maneuver the fish tape easily through conduits. Moreover, the protective coating keeps the steel dry, reducing the chances of rust and corrosion.
The laser etched markings at 1-foot increments are an excellent addition, giving us the ability to measure conduit runs and know how much tape is left to be paid out. We appreciate this attention to detail, as it helps enhance efficiency and precision during any wire fishing project.
However, we did notice that the slim plastic tip might not be as flexible for small conduits. Despite this minor drawback, with some practice and technique, we found the fish tape to be quite effective. The 25-foot length might be restrictive for some jobs, but for the majority of residential and light commercial tasks, it should suffice.
When using the Klein Tools 56335, we could feel the difference in quality compared to other fish tapes. Its durability and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any toolbox. The compact size also means that it fits conveniently in most tool bags, making it easy to transport and always have on-hand. While the tool may have a few limitations, in our experience, it performed exceptionally well for most wire fishing projects.
14FT Fiberglass Running Electrical Wire Cable Glow Rods Wire Puller Kit
We highly recommend this wire fishing tool for its versatility, ease of use, and efficient performance in various wire installation settings.
Pros
- Durable fiberglass material
- 10 rods with 8 different attachments
- Effectively runs wire through various spaces
Cons
- May lack flexibility for tight corners
- Threaded rod connections may snap under pressure
- Better suited for small jobs or hobbyists
We recently used this 14FT Fiberglass Running Electrical Wire Cable Glow Rods Wire Puller Kit, and it proved to be an efficient and practical solution for wire installations. The fiberglass material in combination with the low friction design allows for the tape to glide smoothly through conduits without getting stuck at turns, joints, or couplings.
The kit includes ten 1.4ft rods (3/16″ diameter) with eight attachments such as threaded brass connectors, magnetic connectors, brass push, brass hook, rope chain, eyelet ring, and pull rods. This wide variety ensured that we had the right equipment for various wire installation tasks.
We found this fish tape kit to be quite versatile, being used for running wire through walls, attics, crawl spaces, sub-floors, and suspended ceilings, making it great for installing cables, wires, HDMI, and more. The bright green fish tape was easy to differentiate from other wires, which came in useful while working.
However, we did notice that under high pressure or when trying to maneuver through tight corners, the threaded rod connections could snap, limiting the tool’s flexibility. This product may be better suited for smaller jobs or hobbyists, as its durability could be an issue in a professional setting.
Overall, the 14FT Fiberglass Running Electrical Wire Cable Glow Rods Wire Puller Kit is a reliable, easy-to-use wire fishing tool for various wire installation projects. Its versatility, the range of attachments, and efficient performance make it a valuable addition to your toolkit. Just be cautious when using it around tight corners or under high pressure.
StartFine Fish Tape 20ft
An ideal choice for those seeking a flexible and durable wire fishing tool for various projects.
Pros
- Excellent flexibility and rigidity
- Easy to maneuver through crowded spaces
- High-quality materials for long-lasting use
Cons
- Difficult to straighten completely
- Can coil back to its original shape
- Could be challenging to store
We tried the StartFine Fish Tape 20ft and found it to be a fantastic wire fishing tool. Its perfect balance of flexibility and rigidity allows it to maneuver through crowded spaces, such as walls and conduits, with ease. Unlike fiberglass wires, it won’t break even when bent at sharp angles, and its strong traction ensures efficient wire pulling.
However, we did face some challenges concerning the fish tape’s tendency to coil back to its original shape. It was somewhat difficult to straighten it out completely, and at times, this made it harder to use. Additionally, storing the fish tape after use proved to be a bit tricky due to its persistent coiling.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the StartFine Fish Tape’s durable and high-quality materials make it a suitable option for various wire fishing tasks. It has proven to be a valuable tool in projects like installing backup cameras or running speaker wires through desk openings. The product’s reasonable price makes it an attractive choice for those looking to invest in an efficient and long-lasting wire fishing solution.
Overall, the StartFine Fish Tape 20ft is a reliable and versatile tool that can help make a wide range of wire fishing tasks significantly more manageable. Though it has some shortcomings, its benefits far outweigh them, and we would recommend it for anyone who needs a durable and flexible wire fishing tool.
FTIHTRY 22FT Fiberglass Wire Cable Glow Rods Kit
A versatile and reliable wire fishing tool that simplifies electrical work with various attachments and good flexibility.
Pros
- Durable fiberglass material with low friction design
- 22-foot length with extensible rods and eight different attachments
- Bright green color for easy identification and differentiation
Cons
- Possible issues with threaded connections under heavy strain
- Slightly thin rods may not be suitable for heavy-duty use
- Plastic storage case may arrive damaged
We put the FTIHTRY 22FT Fiberglass Running Electrical Wire Cable Glow Rods Wire Pulling Kit to the test and found it to be a valuable addition to our toolkit. This wire fishing tool offers a versatile option to help install cables, wires, HDMI, and more with ease. The fiberglass material is wear-resistant, and corrosion-resistant, and offers great insulation, ensuring that the rods glide smoothly through various conduits and tight spaces.
The kit comes with 16 rods, each about 1.4 feet long, which can be connected to extend up to 22 feet. Equipped with eight different attachments, including threaded brass connectors, a magnetic connector, brass hooks, and more, we successfully navigated through walls, attics, and crawl spaces without issue. Additionally, the bright green color of the rods makes them easy to locate and differentiate from wires.
However, we did encounter some concerns with the threaded connections, which may become separated when subjected to heavy strain or binding. Additionally, the comparatively thin rods might not be suitable for heavy-duty use. We also noticed that the plastic storage case that comes with the kit might arrive broken.
Overall, the FTIHTRY 22FT Fiberglass Wire Cable Glow Rods Kit is a versatile and reliable wire fishing tool for most electrical work. Although it may not be ideal for heavy-duty tasks, its flexibility, extensibility, and assortment of attachments make it a valuable addition to any toolkit.
KOOTANS 11 ft Fiberglass Wire Running Kit
The KOOTANS 11 ft Fiberglass Wire Running Kit is a reliable and versatile choice for any wire fishing tasks.
Pros
- Durable and flexible fiberglass material
- High visibility and easy-to-find bright yellow color
- Convenient storage with transparent plastic tube case
Cons
- May be difficult to use in tight 90-degree bends
- No included instructions for using accessories
- Ring attachment may be less durable than other components
After using the KOOTANS 11 ft Fiberglass Wire Running Kit for some cable installations, we appreciated its robust and flexible fiberglass construction. The bright yellow color made it easy for us to locate and differentiate the rods from the wires, ensuring smooth wire fishing experiences.
The kit comes with a convenient transparent plastic tube case, which keeps everything organized and easily accessible. It’s a handy feature that eliminates the need for rummaging through our toolbox to find the right accessory.
However, there’s one drawback we encountered with this wire fishing tool: difficulty in maneuvering the rods through tight 90-degree bends. Although the fiberglass material is strong and somewhat flexible, it may break when attempting to navigate tight corners. We recommend being cautious and avoiding excessive bending when using this product.
Additionally, we found the absence of instructions a minor issue, as it took a bit of experimenting to understand which accessory was best suited for specific tasks. On a more positive note, it did become more apparent over time and through trial and error.
Furthermore, we noticed that the ring attachment might not be as durable as the other components in the kit. During our usage, it tore off with minimal effort, which may indicate potential long-term durability concerns.
Overall, the KOOTANS 11 ft Fiberglass Wire Running Kit is an effective and versatile solution for wire fishing tasks. Despite its few drawbacks, we believe its benefits make it a great investment for your toolbox.
RamPro 50ft Fish Tape Wire Puller
We highly recommend the RamPro Fish Tape Wire Puller for its durability, ease of use, and flexibility in various wiring scenarios.
Pros
- Firm and flexible steel fish tape
- Durable and built to last
- Comfortable grip handle with thumb lock
Cons
- Can be a bit dirty or greasy
- Some difficulty with coiling back
- Rigid feeling when rolling back
When we used the RamPro 50ft Fish Tape Wire Puller and were impressed with its strong, yet flexible steel fish tape. It made pulling large wires through ceilings, walls, and conduits effortless. The comfort grip handle includes a built-in thumb lock, making it easy to handle without tangling wires.
The durability of the RamPro wire puller is undeniable. We’ve put it through many uses, and it continues to withstand daily abuse and maintain its functionality. This tool is an excellent addition to an electrician, contractor, or DIYer’s toolkit.
However, there are some minor drawbacks worth mentioning. When using the wire puller, we found it to be a bit dirty or greasy, which might require some cleaning before you start. Coiling the fish tape back into its casing can be tricky, and the tool may feel somewhat rigid when rolling it back up. Despite these minor issues, the RamPro 50ft Fish Tape Wire Puller is still a reliable and efficient way to navigate wire pulling tasks, making it worth the investment.
Zezzo Magnetic Wiremag Puller
The Zezzo Magnetic Wiremag Puller is an excellent choice for anyone looking to efficiently route cables behind walls and under floorboards.
Pros
- Versatile and flexible for various wall types
- Two shapes of magnets for different hole sizes
- Large magnets jump over obstacles easily
Cons
- Not suitable for walls with insulation
- May attach to metal conduits unexpectedly
- Price may be considered high for a simple tool
We recently used the Zezzo Magnetic Wiremag Puller and found it to be an essential tool for routing cables behind walls and under floors. The 100% nylon construction allows us to navigate around different surfaces, such as wooden stud walls, plasterboard walls, and even framed walls up to 25mm thick.
The two different shapes of magnets included in the package provided us with the flexibility to pass through various hole sizes. This innovative leader-pull design allowed us to smoothly and easily navigate the cable through enclosed spaces and obstructions. The large magnets quickly jumped over water pipe obstacles, ensuring a clear path for our cables.
One of the key highlights of the Zezzo Magnetic Wiremag Puller is the time-saving aspect. This tool eliminated the need for multiple trips in and out of attics and minimized damage to walls during our cable routing projects. The non-intrusive design is particularly helpful in situations where preserving the structural integrity of a building is crucial.
Despite the many advantages of the Zezzo Magnetic Wiremag Puller, it’s important to note that this tool may not be suitable for walls with insulation. Additionally, the magnet might attach itself to metal conduits, which could be inconvenient in certain scenarios. Lastly, some may argue that the price is somewhat high for a tool that primarily consists of a magnet on a string.
Overall, we found the Zezzo Magnetic Wiremag Puller to be a valuable and convenient addition to our toolkit. Although it has a few limitations, its versatility, efficiency, and time-saving capabilities make it worth the investment for anyone involved in cable routing projects.
Gardner Bender EFT-15 Mini Cable Snake
This compact and efficient wire fishing tool is an excellent choice for those in need of a durable and reliable solution for routing wires.
Pros
- Compact and rugged design
- 15-foot flat steel tape for easy maneuverability
- Low-memory tape prevents curling
Cons
- May have difficulty with some insulation types
- Retractor can be a bit tough to use
- Not suitable for long-distance wire routing
When using the Gardner Bender EFT-15 Mini Cable Snake, we found its compact and rugged design to be quite beneficial in tight spaces. The 15-foot flat steel tape allowed us to route wires under carpets, down walls, and over ceilings without much difficulty. We also appreciated the low-memory tape as it didn’t curl during extension, making it perfect for non-conduit situations.
However, we did encounter a few challenges while using this wire fishing tool. For instance, we found that the EFT-15 had some trouble navigating through specific types of insulation. Additionally, though the retractor ensures a smooth storage experience, it can be a bit difficult to use at times, requiring a bit more effort to rewind the tape.
That being said, the Gardner Bender EFT-15 Mini Cable Snake is an excellent choice for those in need of a reliable wire fishing tool for shorter distances and non-conduit situations. Its durability and high-impact housing make it a worthwhile investment, especially considering its reasonably affordable price point. Just be mindful of the minor drawbacks we mentioned during use.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best wire fishing tools, there are several factors to consider. In this guide, we will discuss the key features you should look at when choosing the right product for your needs.
Durability
First and foremost, consider the durability of the materials used in the construction of the tool. High-quality materials like stainless steel or fiberglass will ensure that the tool lasts longer and can withstand the rigors of electrical work.
Ease of Use
Also, consider how easy the tool is to use. Look for ergonomic designs that allow for comfortable handling, even during extended periods of work. Features such as rotating handles, flexible shafts, and grip-enhancing materials can make using the tool more efficient and less strenuous.
Versatility
Choose a wire fishing tool that can accommodate various wire sizes and navigate through different types of conduits and installations. Some tools may come with attachments or additional parts that can be swapped out to handle different situations.
Length and Reach
The length and reach of the tool play an essential role in getting the job done, especially if you’re working in tight spaces or fishing wires through long stretches of conduit. A longer tool can provide better reach, but it may also be more challenging to control. On the other hand, a shorter tool is easier to manage but may not provide the needed reach.
Storage and Portability
Lastly, consider the storage and portability of the tool. Choose a product that can be neatly stored when not in use, especially if you’re a professional who needs to have an organized toolbox. Some tools come with cases or clips for easy storage and transport.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can confidently choose the best wire fishing tool that meets your requirements and helps you complete your electrical projects with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top tools for pulling wires easily?
We suggest using fish tapes, magnetic wire pullers, and wire pulling grips as the top tools for pulling wires easily. They each serve different purposes, but all aim to make wire pulling more efficient and safe.
Which tools are most effective for fishing wires through walls?
In our experience, fish tapes and magnetic wire pullers work best for fishing wires through walls. Fish tapes have a flexible design, allowing you to easily push the wire through wall cavities and tight spaces. Magnetic wire pullers reduce friction, making the process of pulling wires through walls simpler and less strenuous.
What is the preferred tool for electricians to fish wire?
Many electricians prefer using a fish tape due to its flexibility, durability, and ease of use. Fish tapes come in various lengths and materials, such as steel, fiberglass, and nylon, allowing professionals to choose the right tool for their specific needs.
Which fish tape provides the best results?
The best fish tape depends on the specific task and personal preference. Steel fish tapes are strong and suitable for long, straight runs. Fiberglass fish tapes offer flexibility and durability, especially in tight bends or insulated walls. Nylon fish tapes are lightweight and easy to handle, ideal for shorter runs or novice users.
What are the main differences between a magnetic wire puller and a standard fish tape?
A magnetic wire puller uses a strong magnet to attract and guide a wire or cable through walls and tight spaces. The process involves inserting one magnet inside the wall and attaching a second magnet to the wire. As you guide the interior magnet along the wall, the wire follows.
Standard fish tapes have a flexible rod or tape that you feed through the cavity to reach the wire, attach the wire to the fish tape, and then pull the wire out through the entry point.
Are there any alternatives to fish tape for fishing wires?
Yes, there are alternatives to fish tape for fishing wires. Some popular options include using rods, wire-pulling grips, and vacuum attachments. These tools serve different purposes and can be convenient in certain situations; however, fish tapes remain a popular and versatile choice for most wiring tasks.
Last Updated on October 15, 2023 by Josh Mahan
