Yoshihiro Fish Scaler (Urokotori) Japanese Sushi Chef Tool

This fish scaler is one of those specialized kitchen tools that immediately makes you appreciate why professionals use them. It’s simple in design, but very effective in practice. The scaling process is fast, controlled, and far less messy than using improvised tools like knives or spoons. The build quality feels exactly what you’d expect from a well-made Japanese kitchen tool. It has a solid, purposeful weight to it without feeling bulky, and it’s easy to grip and maneuver even when things get wet or slippery. That control makes a big difference when working along curves and tighter areas of fish. What stood out most is how cleanly it removes scales without tearing into the flesh. It feels precise rather than forceful, which helps keep the prep process smooth and less frustrating overall. Overall, this is a straightforward but high-quality tool that does its job extremely well. If you prepare whole fish with any regularity, it quickly earns its place in the kitchen and makes the process noticeably easier and more efficient. Excellent value for money.

I have tried many types of fish scaler, and THIS IS THE BEST! The wooden handle and metal teeth are heavy duty. It makes scaling like a butterknife scraping butter. It is so smooth and glides on the surface of the fish. What design is so amazing is not only does it not damage the meat in any way, it also easily scrapes through the fins, again without any damage! I watch many Japanese shows on fish restaurants and cooking, and that is how I found out about this scaler because I saw it was a scaler many used in the shows. The cost is not unreasonable and worth more because of the quality and effectiveness. It is light weight and extremely easy to use and clean.

Grew up using the cruddy teeth style scalers. Knew there had to be something better, and THIS IS IT! I was skeptical at first because this looks like something you would use to get mud off your boots (and it may work for that too), but I decided to give it a shot anyway. Really glad I did because it flat out beats the pants off anything else I have used. To be fair, I have only used it on fish with larger scales (ie mullet) so I can't comment on how it performs on fish with smaller scales (ie salmon). And, sure, it may be that others have only scaled one or two fish at a time with it, but I scaled 30 mullet a few days ago in record time and with much less effort than with other scalers. This one is a winner. And, it is built to last. If you don't lose it or it doesn't get stolen after someone sees you using it, it should last a lifetime. Yehp--works well on salmon too. You may need to vary your technique until you find the direction the scales you are working with "want" to be removed. With skin on salmon fillets, the scales come off easily when you are running the tool in the direction they "want" to be removed from. If you were using it on a whole salmon, it would probably be more straightforward.

After reading several reviews I purchased this one as it had the best ratings. The tool itself works wonderfully-when working with whole fish the scales come off easy and clean without damaging the skin which keeps moisture in during cooking in the fish (a little messy)though). But only being a cook not a fisherman, I guess I expected the handle to be "finished" (with like a protective glaze or something) and the gold is a bit "tarnished". Purchasing so many items at Williams and Sonoma I suppose can higher your expectations. However, the tool is sturdy and does an excellent job for the price. I would purchase this again, as the others I ran across in retail stores where cheaply made and I can only assume might not work so well.

This fish scaler is a lot like one I purchased about 30 or more years ago for myself. This one I bought for a friend who liked mine after using it on a fishing trip last season. The scales come off quickly and unlike scalers with the sharp points, this one will not tear up the delicate skin of the fish or your own if you happen to get a little careless while using it. I highly recommend this product.

Des ales most any fish. Do the scaling under a low running faucet if possible to prevent scales flying off. Cheaper exact version made in Japan for nearly half price does same job. I have one of each. Exact materials, exact die casting and exact same size.

Great tool. I've scaled and skinned and filleted and otherwise cut up a lot of fish over the years. I had no idea how much easier/faster scaling could be. The bronze casting is has a nice heft and good finish-appears to be made for a lifetime of service. Handle is simple tang fit-very easy to replace should one ever need to. Money well spent. Would make great GIFT-put it on your "wish list".

Easy to clean, very effective at removing fish scales.