I remember when I was doing competitions with my HS band, we never wanted to go first. Hardest one for judges to rank properly, the concern being that you wouldn’t score as well, because they too were trying not to feel “too high” with the first set of scores. (But if you were good, going last was where you wanted to be.) I found it interesting that you like the hook hanger down low. The last Kistler review I saw was by Debo, who likes the hanger above the reel. I’ve got rods with it above and below, and I tend to prefer it above, for handling/transport purposes, but if the rods a nice one, it wouldn’t be a deal breaker. Sort of like the cork vs EVA grips, I lean towards EVA, but having it be cork is fine as well. Really enjoying the series so far. It’ll be a nice chunk of knowledge we’ll all have when you’re done. 👊🏻
Most high end rods will rank high. And you give good justification for your ranking. For future rod reviews. I'd like to see the balance point with a reel on the rod. Also the weight of the rod on a scale. These are specs manufactures don't give out but effects sensitivity and comfort. I'm really enjoying these new rod reel reviews.
I ordered the Series 1 baitcaster and Series 1 spinning reel over Labor Day weekend. As soon as got them I put em to the test. I was so impressed by their quality and performance, I really had to order a KLX spinning rod to see more of what I was missing out on. The lightness and crispness is all there. The sensitivity just follows through. Not a single flaw that I could notice from the coatings on the wraps to the perfect alignment on the guides. When using it the first time it really felt like an extension of my arm, it's so solid. The kicker??? They've gotten more affordable! And the personal touch with their customers is all true. They've called me twice to make sure everything was working fine and if I had any questions. WTF? Maybe because I was a new customer, I don't know. But I've never experienced all the claims and promises actually being backed up the way they have with them. Someone mentioned putting a combo on a scale. I'm going to post it as soon as I find my kitchen scale. I really have to know myself.
I've been using Kistler for over 10 years. Can't say enough about the quality of the product and the company. Light weight, strong, sensitive tools for catching bass. Save your money and buy these rods, they are worth the money. Once you fish with one you wont want anything else in your hand. I called them one day to ask a question about a rod and Trey Kistler gets on the phone and answers my question. That is customer service at its finest.
Hey @johnhewkin382 I'm working on an article for Kistler's blog. I'd like to use this quote in my article because it's spot-on! Kistler is unmatched in customer service and product quality.
One of my buddies gave me one of his old Kistler Helium LTA's 6 years ago and it's been my goto jig rod. I can't speak high enough about the sensitivity of this rod. I can feel a fish even thinking about biting my jig. My buddy beat the snot out of this rod for years and I've punished it for 6 seasons and it's still the best rod in my arsenal. Kistlers are worth every penny
I have and use 2 KLX Feel n Reel, 5 Helium 3’s , and 2 Z Bones. The Heliums are as good as my NRX, and I like the Z Bones better. the rods are light and sensitive. I prefer the Z Bones over anything else I have ever fished. That being said, their warranty is terrible. Look it up. I broke about an inch off the tip of a 7’3” Helium casting a 1/2 oz chatterbait. The pro rata charge to replace it (within the first year of purchase) was 1/2 what the rod was new. I have a green stick type fracture on a 6’8, but the pro rata charge for the warranty cost more than what I paid for the rod on sale. I left a review on their website, but they took it down TWICE. Don’t trust their reviews. I love the rods, and if they stood behind them, I wouldn’t buy anything else, but they don’t, and I won’t buy any more. Notice they don’t have any negative reviews on their website,
I have about a dozen Kistlers, going all the way back to the old graphite plus series, and I love every one. Some of the original Helium rods were a bit brittle, but everything else is super durable. Have always wanted to try a KLX!
That's why I want do do each in their own Price range. Ya know. This review is what a 300 dollar is like compared to 300 dollar rods. Now we've got a lot more on Lower priced rods.
I’ve considered Kistler for a few years now, but I haven’t pulled the trigger, and one reason was they moved where they got their blanks. They used to start with the NorthForkComposite blanks which is the custom rod company of Gary Loomis. I’m not sure where they get the blanks now but I know they changed to have lighter rods. I’m glad you’re able to review higher end rods and reels, and you know I trust your judgement 👍👍👍👍
Hey bass geek update from Kansas went out this weekend still no jerk bait bite 15 ft deep and in. Went out with a finesse jig and put it in about 15 brush piles in 16-18 ft of water never got a bite finally went out with a jigging spoon in 20 ft of water in the main river channel in my lake and dropped on shad schools and caught a couple of spotted bass that the very end of the day water temperature was 38°, it's tough tough nookies down here in southeast Kansas but I was happy to catch the two that I did! Thanks for all the help!
Hey Hank, great video! I'm working on some content for Kistler and I'd love to quote some parts of what you said in my article. These rods are outstanding quality!
I love the fact that you was super honest about it as member of team KISTLER I love seeing honest reviews I haven’t checked yet but would love to see you try the z bone the highest quality rod KISTLER has to offer there not cheap but there amazing and super super lightweight
Hank, the hook keeper is in the right place for me. I won't buy a rod if the hook keeper is where you like. It a deal breaker. BTW, my favorite rod is the 6th Sense Sensory 7' 1" MH Fast for all around fishing. To compare, I have a Dobyns Champion Extreme HP Split Grip, and the 6th Sense has more feel and is lighter. Also the 6th Sense cost less.
I need to do a video on that. Trust me. The line from the reel pops bait wraps up and you have to be sure to order shorter rod covers if you use treble hook bait or anything for that matter.
@@BassGeek Hank, that hook keeper above the reel should be on the bottom of the rod. If, it's on the top it will catch line anytime it's slack.When the keeper is below the reel on the rod handle, I have never been able to get lure wraps to stay on, and I end up grabbing a hook pulling the rod out of the box, or it get caught on other things. I use nothing but neoprene rod covers because they just work without hooks getting caught it them. I never have an issue with what I use now.
Been using the Kistler Heliums and KLX for 10 years and have never broke one. Most definatley durable and powerful, and well worth the money. As others have stated, the blanks they use now are not as sensitive. Hank you need to get one of the KLX Feel n Reels!
I have a couple Megabass P5 rods and just picked up a Megabass Valkyrie for heavy cranking. I’m in love with them all but I’ll be real there is still not a fishing rod yet that’s made an enough difference in my fishing to justify a $500 price tag. Honestly my Duckett Micro Magics for $160 fish almost as nice. It’s all about what you enjoy and if you like a Cadillac or just a good ole Ford F-150. They all get you to the store and work all just the same (for the most part)
Nice and fair review. I own several Kistler rods, but always buy when they have the deals on the web site. Now and then you can pick up these quality rods at a substantial discount and for my money Kistler Rods are exceptional. The new blanks are every bit as good as any NFC blank.
Nice review Hank, I use 3 different brands of rod, G.Loomis, Kistler and Dobyns. Kistler used to be my goto brand when they used NFC blanks but I haven't purchased one since they went Chinese. Trey is a good guy and I will support them again if they ever go back to American blanks. My Helium 3 (2) and KLX with the NFC blanks are on par with my G.Loomis IMX-Pro models as far as sensitivity and weight, Dobyns comes in a poor third. Only my opinion, YMMV.
They are NOT Chinese, Blanks are Japanese Carbon. Check out the website it will give you that info. Trey is a great guy, great company can't say enough. I used to work there and I more than likely made the cork fit into that blank as well as glued that all up with the reel seat, I was the lead fitter before leaving last week. If you're ever in Houston, Texas drive up to Magnolia and come into the shop. We have rods on sale that you will not find on the website. Kistlerrods.com
I'm 90% inshore Tx coast angler but do quite a lot of bass fishing. We Texans, especially the Houston area are very lucky to have so many great rod builders here from Kistler, Old 18, Laguna, Fishstix, H and H, Sarge Customs, amd Waterloo is down in Victoria.
Just a couple of suggestions for new categories in your reviews- 1. Value- compare the build quality, material quality, etc. to what you're paying for it- is it worth the price they're asking? 2. Competitors- How does it stack up when compared to other rods in its price range? and 3. Versatility- is it technique specific, if so what about it makes it so- and if not, what all would it be good for? You're doing a good review already though, I enjoyed it- thanks.
At the end of the video that's exactly what we do. So the rankings will be based on price range. So will set a category at 50bucks give or take 20 bucks. The next will be 100 dollars and so on. Now So you will see the rods, reels, etc over time being ranked verses different types but in the same price range. That will cover both 1 and 2. versatility ehh what rod really isn't. Honestly. Like maybe some glass rods. sure.
Hank, I like the rating system you did on the Kistler. Would be awesome to see more like that on other gear, lures etc. not a bad wormhole to go down. Value your input👊
Thanks for the review Hank. Buying a $300 rod doesn't make sense to me, since I don't fish enough. Not convinced it will make me a better fisherman either. Appreciate you doing reviews now man. 🤘🎣
Don’t worry we are gonna review things in every price category. That’s what I like about doing these we are gonna review rods and reels that cost less than 50 bucks and those that are 300 and more so everyone will be covered
Best advice I can give to anglers on a budget...put your money into the rod. It'll make much more of a difference in your overall success. With Kistler, buy when they run their big sales and then just put something like one of the modern Tatula (or SLX if you're a Shimano person) reels on it and go have fun. For an ever more budget friendly reel, pick up a Fuego CT (It's the same as the Tatulas, but without the T-wing).
Looks like they focus on quality blanks , guides that are quality and quality craftsmanship .I've owned one of their rods years ago and I can't remember the model it was like a cobalt blue with metallic blue cross wraps but one of the best rods I've ever used for a bass rods
Never used one but they look killer. Hate it I didn’t get to go to the expo to hang with you for a minute. Work and my sons 18th B-Day well, you get the picture. #favoriteyoutuber
Yes! You also can't get the bait wrap to stay on because of the line coming out of the reel. Then at times the line will get caught during the cast. Not as bad as spinning rods but it can happen.
Too funny that you came out with a Kistler review, the same year I decided to pick some up. I haven't got use mine yet, due old man winter. I picked up the klx 3 power on 6'9 for jerkbaits or top water, and a custom zbone with the carbon handles on a 6'8" 2 power for finesse bait casting. The zbone is paired with a steez ct sv tw and I've got a few cast's in and it's like Rolex. This year is gonna be fun. I did get the series 1 reel with the zbone and I'll say that there's no way I'd put it on that rod.
You know what- I like a faster rod to with small swim baits but- if you're going to throw the 6 inchers and up, moderate fast imo is the way to go. 1.- Lots of these swimbaits come either with a treble already (mag draft) or- they're setup for line through rigging which is also treble hook. 2. They're larger and they take the bass a little more time to engulf or suck in. and 3. Sensitivity isn't so important since you're not fishing bottom baits and a moderate fast is more versatile- you could fish larger sqaure bills on it, chatter baits, mid-sized wake baits, etc. even big top water plugs.
I had been using Lews rods but broke 2 and they let me down so I’ve bought a few Dobyns I really really like the dobyns rods. But can’t go wrong with a Kistler!
I'm the owner of some high-eng rod brands..., but Kistler rods have the best user guarantee, user support, and quality. In some cases, you will direct Trey Kistler support..., THAT MATTERS!
Would you flip and punch mats with this rod? I bought the 7’6XH and it’s just too stiff so I’m thinking about swapping it for the heavy instead of XH. What are your thoughts?? It’s definitely a mod fast
I got a KLX 6'10" dropshop rod.it's not balanced perfect and would like a longer handle,about a inch or so .would be better if hook hanger was behind reel seat.they use Gary Loomis northfork blanks and are solid.I got rod for 170.00$ two years ago..even with the things I wish were better it's still a nice rod...
Kistler are pricey. "But"I am not nice with my rods whatsoever from the boat to Urban ponds to golf courses being thrown on the floor hitting branches getting put on rocks on the ground. They hold up, their built like tanks. well made from the graphite to the guides. and their American 🇺🇸 made which is always a bonus for me.
WOW you want to talk about a tough decision right now with both costing right at 250ish. I love the reel seat and and double locking hood and nut of the Okumas. I like that the KLX has a few more options in powers and actions. Both are really amazing. Both are great rods, great blanks, great components. SHEW!!! This is tough. If I was leaning it would be the Psycho stick because it's such a great looking rod and that is the only edge I can give to one or the other. They are a lot a like.
Solid and thorough review. I value your input on reviews I thought that maybe having a teacher background you would have used a school rating instead of stars. Does it matter? No. I look forward to other reviews coming.
Kistler rod's are definitely over priced and I've had them and several other high end rods and there just not worth it and in my opinion there to heavy I know Hank is saying there light but I've had 120 dollar rods that are way lighter than kistler rod's but I will say this they are very sensitive, well balanced but for me for 300 dollors there's not enough guides on his rods and there way to expensive.
I'm new at this Review thing so as we review more rods and reels we will adjust some rankings. I feel a little high right now.
I always feel a little high brother 😎 and as always YOU ROCK 🤘🎣
I remember when I was doing competitions with my HS band, we never wanted to go first. Hardest one for judges to rank properly, the concern being that you wouldn’t score as well, because they too were trying not to feel “too high” with the first set of scores. (But if you were good, going last was where you wanted to be.)
I found it interesting that you like the hook hanger down low. The last Kistler review I saw was by Debo, who likes the hanger above the reel. I’ve got rods with it above and below, and I tend to prefer it above, for handling/transport purposes, but if the rods a nice one, it wouldn’t be a deal breaker. Sort of like the cork vs EVA grips, I lean towards EVA, but having it be cork is fine as well.
Really enjoying the series so far. It’ll be a nice chunk of knowledge we’ll all have when you’re done. 👊🏻
Most high end rods will rank high. And you give good justification for your ranking.
For future rod reviews. I'd like to see the balance point with a reel on the rod. Also the weight of the rod on a scale. These are specs manufactures don't give out but effects sensitivity and comfort. I'm really enjoying these new rod reel reviews.
If you like it, you like it
I ordered the Series 1 baitcaster and Series 1 spinning reel over Labor Day weekend. As soon as got them I put em to the test. I was so impressed by their quality and performance, I really had to order a KLX spinning rod to see more of what I was missing out on. The lightness and crispness is all there. The sensitivity just follows through.
Not a single flaw that I could notice from the coatings on the wraps to the perfect alignment on the guides. When using it the first time it really felt like an extension of my arm, it's so solid.
The kicker??? They've gotten more affordable! And the personal touch with their customers is all true. They've called me twice to make sure everything was working fine and if I had any questions. WTF? Maybe because I was a new customer, I don't know. But I've never experienced all the claims and promises actually being backed up the way they have with them.
Someone mentioned putting a combo on a scale. I'm going to post it as soon as I find my kitchen scale. I really have to know myself.
I've been using Kistler for over 10 years. Can't say enough about the quality of the product and the company. Light weight, strong, sensitive tools for catching bass. Save your money and buy these rods, they are worth the money. Once you fish with one you wont want anything else in your hand. I called them one day to ask a question about a rod and Trey Kistler gets on the phone and answers my question. That is customer service at its finest.
Yeah they are really good. I like this rod a lot.
Hey @johnhewkin382 I'm working on an article for Kistler's blog. I'd like to use this quote in my article because it's spot-on! Kistler is unmatched in customer service and product quality.
One of my buddies gave me one of his old Kistler Helium LTA's 6 years ago and it's been my goto jig rod. I can't speak high enough about the sensitivity of this rod. I can feel a fish even thinking about biting my jig. My buddy beat the snot out of this rod for years and I've punished it for 6 seasons and it's still the best rod in my arsenal. Kistlers are worth every penny
Dang right great rods.
KLX was one of my top favorites from last year 😍
Certified Debo Dink catching rods?
Yeah that thing is siiiick. Bro keep being sexy.
Have a lot of fun with the KLX Models, great rods
As a team member, i have a few KLX rods in the casting & spinning category, love them! I give this review 5 stars, well done! 👏🏽
Great Rods
I have and use 2 KLX Feel n Reel, 5 Helium 3’s , and 2 Z Bones. The Heliums are as good as my NRX, and I like the Z Bones better. the rods are light and sensitive. I prefer the Z Bones over anything else I have ever fished. That being said, their warranty is terrible. Look it up. I broke about an inch off the tip of a 7’3” Helium casting a 1/2 oz chatterbait. The pro rata charge to replace it (within the first year of purchase) was 1/2 what the rod was new. I have a green stick type fracture on a 6’8, but the pro rata charge for the warranty cost more than what I paid for the rod on sale. I left a review on their website, but they took it down TWICE. Don’t trust their reviews. I love the rods, and if they stood behind them, I wouldn’t buy anything else, but they don’t, and I won’t buy any more. Notice they don’t have any negative reviews on their website,
Hmmm that’s good info
Just bought one today for 1/2 off. Can't wait 😮 to test it
NICE!
I have about a dozen Kistlers, going all the way back to the old graphite plus series, and I love every one. Some of the original Helium rods were a bit brittle, but everything else is super durable. Have always wanted to try a KLX!
Awesome they sure are nice. I really like this thing.
Great rods. The "reel and feel" seven footer is one of the best and most versatile casting rods around. Thanks for doing video.
Yes sir.
Solid video. Rods like that are out of my price range. I like you’re breakdown.
That's why I want do do each in their own Price range. Ya know. This review is what a 300 dollar is like compared to 300 dollar rods. Now we've got a lot more on Lower priced rods.
I’ve considered Kistler for a few years now, but I haven’t pulled the trigger, and one reason was they moved where they got their blanks. They used to start with the NorthForkComposite blanks which is the custom rod company of Gary Loomis. I’m not sure where they get the blanks now but I know they changed to have lighter rods. I’m glad you’re able to review higher end rods and reels, and you know I trust your judgement 👍👍👍👍
I do love those blanks. I'm sure I've over ranked some of this stuff that I'm just getting into but we will adjust. I really like this rod though.
Hey bass geek update from Kansas went out this weekend still no jerk bait bite 15 ft deep and in. Went out with a finesse jig and put it in about 15 brush piles in 16-18 ft of water never got a bite finally went out with a jigging spoon in 20 ft of water in the main river channel in my lake and dropped on shad schools and caught a couple of spotted bass that the very end of the day water temperature was 38°, it's tough tough nookies down here in southeast Kansas but I was happy to catch the two that I did! Thanks for all the help!
Hey I’m that water temp that’s a good day
Hey Hank, great video! I'm working on some content for Kistler and I'd love to quote some parts of what you said in my article. These rods are outstanding quality!
Sure thing sir
I love the fact that you was super honest about it as member of team KISTLER I love seeing honest reviews I haven’t checked yet but would love to see you try the z bone the highest quality rod KISTLER has to offer there not cheap but there amazing and super super lightweight
I haven’t tried it yet
Hank, the hook keeper is in the right place for me. I won't buy a rod if the hook keeper is where you like. It a deal breaker. BTW, my favorite rod is the 6th Sense Sensory 7' 1" MH Fast for all around fishing. To compare, I have a Dobyns Champion Extreme HP Split Grip, and the 6th Sense has more feel and is lighter. Also the 6th Sense cost less.
I need to do a video on that. Trust me. The line from the reel pops bait wraps up and you have to be sure to order shorter rod covers if you use treble hook bait or anything for that matter.
@@BassGeek Hank, that hook keeper above the reel should be on the bottom of the rod. If, it's on the top it will catch line anytime it's slack.When the keeper is below the reel on the rod handle, I have never been able to get lure wraps to stay on, and I end up grabbing a hook pulling the rod out of the box, or it get caught on other things. I use nothing but neoprene rod covers because they just work without hooks getting caught it them. I never have an issue with what I use now.
Great video and review Hank, thanks for sharing.
Thank you for watching.
Been using the Kistler Heliums and KLX for 10 years and have never broke one. Most definatley durable and powerful, and well worth the money. As others have stated, the blanks they use now are not as sensitive.
Hank you need to get one of the KLX Feel n Reels!
I do I have it on the list for sure.
I have a couple Megabass P5 rods and just picked up a Megabass Valkyrie for heavy cranking. I’m in love with them all but I’ll be real there is still not a fishing rod yet that’s made an enough difference in my fishing to justify a $500 price tag. Honestly my Duckett Micro Magics for $160 fish almost as nice. It’s all about what you enjoy and if you like a Cadillac or just a good ole Ford F-150. They all get you to the store and work all just the same (for the most part)
I SOOOOOO agree. That's why I'm going to rank them via price range.
Own over a dozen kistler rods from KLX all the way to zbone my favorite rods hands-down
Heck yeah thank you for the input.
Nice review Hank! Keep up the great content.
Thanks I know I'm rating high but we will adjust over time with the rankings.
Nice and fair review. I own several Kistler rods, but always buy when they have the deals on the web site. Now and then you can pick up these quality rods at a substantial discount and for my money Kistler Rods are exceptional. The new blanks are every bit as good as any NFC blank.
Man they are incredible
Nice review Hank, I use 3 different brands of rod, G.Loomis, Kistler and Dobyns. Kistler used to be my goto brand when they used NFC blanks but I haven't purchased one since they went Chinese. Trey is a good guy and I will support them again if they ever go back to American blanks. My Helium 3 (2) and KLX with the NFC blanks are on par with my G.Loomis IMX-Pro models as far as sensitivity and weight, Dobyns comes in a poor third. Only my opinion, YMMV.
Man I use any brand I can get my hands on. hahaha.
They are NOT Chinese, Blanks are Japanese Carbon. Check out the website it will give you that info. Trey is a great guy, great company can't say enough. I used to work there and I more than likely made the cork fit into that blank as well as glued that all up with the reel seat, I was the lead fitter before leaving last week. If you're ever in Houston, Texas drive up to Magnolia and come into the shop. We have rods on sale that you will not find on the website.
Kistlerrods.com
@@anaelizabeth6505 Thanks but I'll pass, G. Loomis has my buisness now.
I'm 90% inshore Tx coast angler but do quite a lot of bass fishing. We Texans, especially the Houston area are very lucky to have so many great rod builders here from Kistler, Old 18, Laguna, Fishstix, H and H, Sarge Customs, amd Waterloo is down in Victoria.
Very lucky indeed.
I have four Kistler's at the moment. Liking them so far but I haven't got to fish them much yet. Hopefully this spring I can give them a workout.
Keep us posted what you think.
I own Kistler Rods right now (1-KLX)(1-Helium) and I love them both. The Helium is my favorite of all the rods I own. Their quality is 2nd to none.
Oh maybe another Kistler rod review. lol
If anyone on this thread hasn't done this yet, get your hands on a Kistler Feel n Reel. Best cranking rods on the market and will change your life.
Yeah I'm telling you I have several now and sheeeeew. Heck Kistler don't make a bad rod.
Just a couple of suggestions for new categories in your reviews-
1. Value- compare the build quality, material quality, etc. to what you're paying for it- is it worth the price they're asking?
2. Competitors- How does it stack up when compared to other rods in its price range?
and 3. Versatility- is it technique specific, if so what about it makes it so- and if not, what all would it be good for?
You're doing a good review already though, I enjoyed it- thanks.
At the end of the video that's exactly what we do. So the rankings will be based on price range. So will set a category at 50bucks give or take 20 bucks. The next will be 100 dollars and so on. Now So you will see the rods, reels, etc over time being ranked verses different types but in the same price range. That will cover both 1 and 2. versatility ehh what rod really isn't. Honestly. Like maybe some glass rods. sure.
@@BassGeek Sweet- good series man.
Hank, I like the rating system you did on the Kistler. Would be awesome to see more like that on other gear, lures etc. not a bad wormhole to go down. Value your input👊
I've already done a reel or two. Sad my memory is going lol. However I do have plans on doing exactly that.
@@BassGeek fantastic!
Thanks for the review Hank. Buying a $300 rod doesn't make sense to me, since I don't fish enough. Not convinced it will make me a better fisherman either. Appreciate you doing reviews now man. 🤘🎣
Don’t worry we are gonna review things in every price category. That’s what I like about doing these we are gonna review rods and reels that cost less than 50 bucks and those that are 300 and more so everyone will be covered
@@BassGeek Thanks Hank
Best advice I can give to anglers on a budget...put your money into the rod. It'll make much more of a difference in your overall success. With Kistler, buy when they run their big sales and then just put something like one of the modern Tatula (or SLX if you're a Shimano person) reels on it and go have fun. For an ever more budget friendly reel, pick up a Fuego CT (It's the same as the Tatulas, but without the T-wing).
Looks like they focus on quality blanks , guides that are quality and quality craftsmanship .I've owned one of their rods years ago and I can't remember the model it was like a cobalt blue with metallic blue cross wraps but one of the best rods I've ever used for a bass rods
Man they really are tremendous.
Never used one but they look killer. Hate it I didn’t get to go to the expo to hang with you for a minute. Work and my sons 18th B-Day well, you get the picture. #favoriteyoutuber
Dude I totally get that. There's always next time.
I agree with the hook holder if it's on top makes it too hard for the rod sock 👍🎣 You Rock brother 🤘
Yes! You also can't get the bait wrap to stay on because of the line coming out of the reel. Then at times the line will get caught during the cast. Not as bad as spinning rods but it can happen.
Thanks for the vid! 👍🏼
Thanks very much.
Great rod! Solid review! I feel it’s a great value.
Thanks and they make some good one's for sure.
Too funny that you came out with a Kistler review, the same year I decided to pick some up. I haven't got use mine yet, due old man winter. I picked up the klx 3 power on 6'9 for jerkbaits or top water, and a custom zbone with the carbon handles on a 6'8" 2 power for finesse bait casting. The zbone is paired with a steez ct sv tw and I've got a few cast's in and it's like Rolex. This year is gonna be fun. I did get the series 1 reel with the zbone and I'll say that there's no way I'd put it on that rod.
Great minds think a like.
@@BassGeek That they do. Just gonna take some guess's, but maybe an expride, orochi, St. Croix, or a Loomis coming up in the series?
Nice vid keep up the good work Hank .
Thank you very much.
Kistler is one brand I've never fished. Hopefully I can get my hands on one sometime soon to mess around with.
They really do make some killer rods
If you like the KLX , you will love the Helium and ZBone they are freaking amazing
I'll have to test those out.
Excellent review, a little out of my price range atm but good to know
We’ll be doing reviews on all different price ranges
You know what- I like a faster rod to with small swim baits but- if you're going to throw the 6 inchers and up, moderate fast imo is the way to go. 1.- Lots of these swimbaits come either with a treble already (mag draft) or- they're setup for line through rigging which is also treble hook. 2. They're larger and they take the bass a little more time to engulf or suck in. and 3. Sensitivity isn't so important since you're not fishing bottom baits and a moderate fast is more versatile- you could fish larger sqaure bills on it, chatter baits, mid-sized wake baits, etc. even big top water plugs.
You are spot on!
I had been using Lews rods but broke 2 and they let me down so I’ve bought a few Dobyns I really really like the dobyns rods. But can’t go wrong with a Kistler!
I'm gonna tell ya something if your using Fury's Go buy a Piscifun serpent. You will think me.
Thanks for the video and review.
Thank you for the support.
I'm the owner of some high-eng rod brands..., but Kistler rods have the best user guarantee, user support, and quality. In some cases, you will direct Trey Kistler support..., THAT MATTERS!
Heck yeah that matters.
Would you flip and punch mats with this rod? I bought the 7’6XH and it’s just too stiff so I’m thinking about swapping it for the heavy instead of XH. What are your thoughts?? It’s definitely a mod fast
I think this would be great for matts
Review the Zbone against a NRX+ please
Thanks that’s some good ones
I got a KLX 6'10" dropshop rod.it's not balanced perfect and would like a longer handle,about a inch or so .would be better if hook hanger was behind reel seat.they use Gary Loomis northfork blanks and are solid.I got rod for 170.00$ two years ago..even with the things I wish were better it's still a nice rod...
Kistler have used chinese blanks for the last 14 months.
My KLX is made with North fork blank.100 %
They are great rods and it’s a great company
Yes sir
Would you say these are just as good as dobyns rods? Or are these a better choice?
Better
Kistler are pricey. "But"I am not nice with my rods whatsoever from the boat to Urban ponds to golf courses being thrown on the floor hitting branches getting put on rocks on the ground.
They hold up, their built like tanks. well made from the graphite to the guides. and their American 🇺🇸 made which is always a bonus for me.
Same here I beat the abuzz out of my gear
In your opinion, KLX or psycho stick, which is a better rod for the value?
WOW you want to talk about a tough decision right now with both costing right at 250ish. I love the reel seat and and double locking hood and nut of the Okumas. I like that the KLX has a few more options in powers and actions. Both are really amazing. Both are great rods, great blanks, great components. SHEW!!! This is tough. If I was leaning it would be the Psycho stick because it's such a great looking rod and that is the only edge I can give to one or the other. They are a lot a like.
I'm lookin for a rod like that for soft swim baits, just in the 100-150 buck range...dagnamit!
Plenary out there
Solid and thorough review. I value your input on reviews I thought that maybe having a teacher background you would have used a school rating instead of stars. Does it matter? No. I look forward to other reviews coming.
Thanks I'll need to adjust as I go but these should be fun.
Kistler rod's are definitely over priced and I've had them and several other high end rods and there just not worth it and in my opinion there to heavy I know Hank is saying there light but I've had 120 dollar rods that are way lighter than kistler rod's but I will say this they are very sensitive, well balanced but for me for 300 dollors there's not enough guides on his rods and there way to expensive.
I really thought they were pretty light
👋🏻
Get it.
🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼
Thanks
Taking some Loomis blank and slapping your name on it is still not your product
Geez 🙄
Own 4 Heliums, 4 Z Bones, and 2 customs. Lightest rods out there. Buy once, cry once.
Hahahaha so true