I have no clue what the spike is for. Has a spot in the sheath to hold it. Goes with the knife.

Maybe steel for touching it up or start a fire with flint????

Marlin spike for knots.

For stabbing the fish through the head to hold it while you fillet it with the knife

Marlinspike. That is really a neat combo!

Moosetrot

Yup, marlinspike. For rope work, splices, knots, etc. Usually paired with a "boat" knife, a simple drop point blade most often.

That's a rigging knife and a marlinspike. They were used together. Both have holes so you can hang them from a lanyard, to prevent you from dropping them on the deck or into the water. Those are cool as heck and likely pretty old.
Keith

Thanks. I was trying to figure out what that spike would be good for when dressing or dragging a dead animal

That is truly a nice set and I agree it is quite old. Looks like the bolster is probably nickel silver.

I really like it.

Moosetrot

I do too. I would snag that set up if I saw it an auction and could get it for a decent price and if I had extra cash, for a not very decent price too.

Keith

It’s a knot fid. Used to open knots or rope for splicing etc.

My Dad was a rigger in the US Navy ... And I have his Spike.

Yep, they got it. I still have a very similar rig from my Navy days.

I would guess its being used to pull front legs down when skinning

By the looks of the construction of that knife I am guessing 1800's.

Moosetrot

I think so too. The sheathe may be newer.

Keith

That's a very cool find ! Wow !