Kistler Rod Review

Birdsnest · **Posted:** Fri May 28, 2004 8:54 am

I may be somewhat biased as I have met Trey and he is a great guy. That said, I am pretty specific in my likes and dislikes regarding conventional rods. Normally, I use a 6'6" med St Croix Tidemaster baitcaster, for spinning I use a 6'light Custom Bimini spinner.

Last week I got to try a 6'9' med/light Kistler California Series spinner. No BS, this is a fantastic spinning rod! It has a fairly short grip which is a bonus for the kayaker. The but section has nice backbone and while I didn't land any big fish last week, I am certain it'd handle the sows with authority. The tip is very sensitive, and the overall feel on jigging is outstanding. It also worked topwaters efficiently. The casting was smooth and consistent with a good balance of distance and accuracy. Yep, I am a Kistler convert.

My Bimini is a little worn of cork, stooped with age, salt burned, and grudgingly ready for the retirement rack.

Me thinks a new Kistler rod will do a right fine job in her stead.

CaptJack · **Joined:** Tue Jun 03, 2003 11:31 pm **Posts:** 11458

These are my two GO TO rods- both with Curados
both Curados have 30# braided SpyderWire(6#diameter w/3'-20#P-Line Fluorocarbon leaders)

The Kistler is my soft plastics rod- shortish handle- great for casting while sitting in a kayak- great touch!

The Titanium AllStar is my plugs & spoons rod- short handle- unbelievable touch!

TKFStubb · **Posted:** Fri May 28, 2004 9:44 am

Jeff and Jack, I've come over to the Kistler line myself. Ever since I tired his Helium 7'ligt caster at Rockport, I've been switching my AllStars over. I'm now fully armed with Kisters for ever situation; spinners and casters. I don't quite know why I haven't tried them in the past, but, better late than never. I believe I was the next to the last holdout on TEAM TKF, so now we are almost totally Kistler/Shimano.
Great Rods, Trey!

Barnacle Bill · **Posted:** Fri May 28, 2004 9:48 am

The next to the last holdout?? Is Harv still using a broomstick with a Penn 6/0 on it for his trout rod?

harv418 · **Posted:** Fri May 28, 2004 9:53 am

BITE ME. I am still on my cast aways. I am waiting patiently for a chance to pick up my Kistlers. I am transitioning as well. Great rod. That helium rod is something else. I honestly thought I was just holding the reel. Of course, I broke the tip off of one of my castaway's this morning. (my 6' 6" tails rod) :cry:

. But that just gives me ammo to go visit Trey and get a Kistler to replace it. :lol:

Guest · **Posted:** Fri May 28, 2004 10:15 am

Ya know, Becky doesn't fall for the "oops, I accidentally broke my rod and need a new one" any more. That lasted about the 1st year of our relationship. Now if I "break" a rod accidentally, it gets replaced by her with a Scooby Doo or Mickey Mouse rod. Give me that broomstick when you transition amigo!

Barnacle Bill · **Posted:** Fri May 28, 2004 10:16 am

That was me. Forgot to log in.