Well on the knives topic I am on the opposite end of the spectrum. I had a cheap set from wally world that did fine for years. Then I spent some money on a very nice set that I have had for years and will have for the rest of my life.
Goto a store that lets you hold the knife and feel its weight. The most important part of a knife to me is the handle. If the handle is not comfortable and fit properly in your hand you won't like using it whether it costs you $10 or $1000 and yes I have used that entire spectrum. Now for brands. Wustoff, henckles (the brand I use most) Global and other such brands are all very good in the way of blades and steel. It goes back to the handle. I would say get a decent block and a few nice knives. Chefs Knife 7"(approx, i have 6, 8 and 12" chefs knives.) An all purpose knife 6", a fillet knife 6+", slicer 10", and paring 3" or 4". An offset serrated bread/slicing knife is also very nice.
I am reposting a post i did on another forum after this which includes links to
amazon.com showing some different knives. This repost specifically address's fillet knives but it works for sets of knives.
Although the suggestions for Dexter Russle knives are great (I own and use 2 of them) I do not care for their blades on the fillet knives. For a filet knife I either like a very flexible knife or a very stiff knife (depending on the situation)
My favorite fillet knife is one made by Lamson Sharp. (one of the oldest knife manufacturer in america) Nice rose wood handle fits my hand well, has a nice flexible blade, and holds an edge very well.
Here are my home knives:
http://www.amazon.com/Lamson-Sharp-3...9977612&sr=8-1
They go on sale for alot more off quite frequently on
amazon. Search around you may find a great deal. Here is the fillet knife from Lamson.
http://www.amazon.com/LamsonSharp-Fi...9978009&sr=1-5
Another to consider if you are not looking for a pretty knife is Henkles. These are the knives I prefer at work since the handles are a little more durable. The blades are once again high quality high carbon steel.
http://www.amazon.com/J-Henckels-7-I...9977875&sr=8-4
Now if you want an asian style knife Bunmei makes a few excellent blades. I own a few and they are fantastic. They go against what we think of as a fillet knife though but work wonderfully.
http://www.amazon.com/Bunmei-2-Inch-...9978953&sr=1-3
One thing to remember about knives is they are like kayaks. You want to try them out before you buy. See how the handle fits in your hand. Is it comfortable for you? The Dexter Russel fillet knife I have has a large handle that I do not care for. Find a knife that is comfortable for you.
Let me know if I can help you any more.