Ikejime tools: what you actually need
A basic ikejime kit is a spike, a nerve wire, a sharp knife, and an ice slurry. Each tool maps to a step in the method, and getting them sized right for your fish makes the whole process cleaner.
The ike jime spike or pick
The spike, also called an ike jime pick, is what you drive into the brain for the instant kill. A firm point and a comfortable handle let you commit to the soft spot with control. This is the one tool you should never be without.
The nerve wire
The shinkei or nerve wire is what you thread down the spinal canal for shinkei nuki. Size the wire to the fish, since a wire too thick or too thin will not track cleanly down the canal. Many anglers carry a couple of sizes to cover their usual catch.
Knife and ice slurry
A sharp knife handles the bleeding cuts at the gills, the pectoral artery, or the tail. The ice slurry, made of ice and seawater, is where the fish goes to bleed out and chill. Together these four items cover every step of the method.
FAQ
Do I need a special spike or will a knife work?
A dedicated ike jime spike is easier to place accurately, but a sharp knife tip can also reach the brain. The important thing is hitting the soft spot cleanly.
What size nerve wire should I buy?
Size it to the fish you target. Larger fish need a longer, slightly stiffer wire to reach down the whole spinal canal, so carrying a couple of sizes is common.