DOES High End Gear IMPROVE Your Fishing? (Kistler Helium Rod Review)

[@TeamJesusOutdoors]

I have been using Kistler rods for 20 years. I have lots of the older rods, including the old original Helium series. I haven't tried the new Helium, but my opinion of high end rods is that they are worth the money for certain techniques, where sensitivity is all important, like pitching and flipping or shakey head worming.

[@TackleJunky81]

💯 brother! Appreciate you watching! 👊

[@thatfishingnoob]

I got a new to me Helium and man, that thing is absolutely a workhorse of a rod for my designated bottom contact rod. You're right - you can catch fish on any rod, and it's important to splurge on rods as needed for sensitivity. Good stuff. Loving my Helium.

[@TackleJunky81]

💯 brother! 👊

[@patrickbryant4306]

I have fishedKistler Helium rods for 10+ years and they are incredible with sensitivity and reactivity. I use the Helium rod for both bottom lure techniques as discussed in this KZbin; however, I also find the sensitivity invaluable when fishing swimming lures because you can feel the lure as it nicks the tops of grass or hit submerged wood from fallen trees. Also, in general, you can feel when a fish place the lure in its mouth even before you feel the actual bite. All of this translates into more hookups.

[@TackleJunky81]

Right on buddy! 👊

[@lucianochavez]

Sale going on right now on the kistler website so you can get a Helium for $247 if you hurry! I owned three of the original Helium LTA from 2003 and still have two (HE69APC and HE70M that I would ever let go; the other one was stolen) and they are still great to fish with after all these years. The very newest Helium (I have the 6'9" MHF) are noticeably lighter and faster. Only thing is I like the older hook keepers a bit better and the original rods did not have EVA foam for your finger which honestly was a selling point as you could rest the finger right on the blank for extra feel. The older rods also exposed more of the blank in the handle adding to more sensitivity.

[@davideakin3372]

I just made the switch over from mid-range rods to ultra high end Evergreen rods (Orion and Kaleido series) and I will say that it does not make me a better fisherman, but it sure makes it a lot easier. I can detect bites easier, and the lure ranges and general versatility of the rods are just insane. I can throw anything from a squarebill to a punch rig on my Black Rose and it handles all of the applications beautifully. The tip is soft enough to pin fish with trebles but can handle 1.5 OZ and heavy cover once you start hitting the backbone. I also have a Rapid Gunner HD I use for bottom contact and it handles all of those applications wonderfully. I can feel so much more than I ever could with other rods and setting the hook with a jig or straight shank hook buried in plastic is much easier.

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@isaactaylor7719]

I’m 20 and been using Kistler for years I fell in love with them. The old Helium LTA (Lighter than Air) rods had a different hook keeper which is better for bottom baits. The other series they are amazing also

[@TackleJunky81]

Good deal! 👊

[@michaelbradley25]

Nice review Jim I have 2 of their old California series rods still going strong!

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@joeyborawa3806]

Thank you for the review, I've been waiting for someone to do one on that rod ! Any chance you will do one on the spinning rod ?

[@TackleJunky81]

My pleasure buddy! The blank should be the same on spinning, so I probably won't review that one.

[@joeyborawa3806]

@@TackleJunky81 in your opinion, does the increase in sensitivity really make a difference?

[@TackleJunky81]

@@joeyborawa3806 it never hurts...that's for sure.

[@timtweet8149]

It's not the size of one's bank account for rods or gear. It's ones ability to find, hook and land the fish. Good review!

[@TackleJunky81]

Appreciate you watching buddy! 👊

[@73jsimon]

On rods that have hook hangers like that, I like to put my t-rigs between the reel and the handle so I don’t have to take the hook out.

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@Roboworm99]

Need to try Megabass P5 Destroyer or Evoluzion or Arms Super Leggera and G Loomis Conquest

[@TackleJunky81]

Not sure I wanna travel down that road...might be no turning back! 🤣

[@Roboworm99]

@@TackleJunky81 same price as Kistler. But a lot better in my opinion

[@davidrauschenbach6871]

Thanks for the review hopefully you got on a few. Did not see how it cast though. That’s surely a lot of trucks to was. Nothing wrong with getting some lighter equipment if you can budget for it in both casting and spinning setups.

[@TackleJunky81]

💯 brother! Appreciate you watching! 👊

[@davidrauschenbach6871]

TJ 81, If you get a chance check out Family Budget Fisherman. Malik is a spinning fisherman. And shows the importance and reviews spinning fishing equipment keeping it within a budget! One of my favorite channels. No sponsorships. Tells you were and how to find value. And honest reviews on spinning gear!

[@WVkayakfishing]

I have to admit, I love high end gear, specifically Megabass destroyer P5. It’s so nice !!! Not for everyone though.

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@bassinwithbryce2695]

Always appreciate your opinion

[@TackleJunky81]

Appreciate you watching buddy! 👊

[@helotaxi]

The hook keeper is my only complaint about the Dobyn's Xstasy series. Fantastic series of rods, not the lightest but certainly not heavy, but perfectly balanced. Not sure why they went with the old school square closed hook hanger though. I like nice gear and have invested in a lot of it. Does it make me a "better" angler? Hard to say, probably feel more bites. Does it improve my fishing? Definitely. I enjoy it more. That's an improvement, whether I catch more fish or not.

[@TackleJunky81]

💯

[@erichildreth7562]

Great review on these rods and thanks for sharing!

[@TackleJunky81]

Appreciate you watching brother! 👊

[@ronaldyeater3322]

Sup TJ. I only fish within my means lol. Agree. I have 2 130 dollar, different baitcasters. One never casted. One shimano caius the new one, been practicing all winter til now and can't get the hang of it? Baitcasting? Idk

[@TackleJunky81]

Are you using lighter line with a bit heavier lure?

[@ronaldyeater3322]

@@TackleJunky81 I'm practicing off deck. Have 1/2oz weight with ribbon and using 10lb mono til get the hang of it. Ty

[@hunterbull7804]

The nice thing about Kistler is they are on sale like 90% of the time. I had an old NFC Zbone 6’9” LMH and gave it to my old man because I upgraded to an NRX+. Great rod, just a little bit weird of a power and action at its length

[@TackleJunky81]

💯

[@cincinnatiking8008]

The most important thing to know about a rod for me is what is the tip like. Not many people show that in videos. Punch Fishing is about the only one. Does that rod have a softer tip or is it pretty stiff since it's made for texas rigs and jigs?

[@TackleJunky81]

I'd say a true fast action.

[@SukatFishing]

I've got a few Kistlers and I feel the same. Wrong hook keepers on wrong rods. My helium and z- bone have closed and a feel n reel has the open. Go figure?

[@TackleJunky81]

Maybe they'll change it up if they see this video, lol

[@matthewmercer2477]

Would have like to see an evaluation of ALL RODS, specifically the Okuma TCS. I think Okuma is prob the most under rated stuff out there. I have The Psycho stick and have yet to find a finer rod. I like My EVX spinning rod but it is a lil heavier but great in salt water. If light is what your looking for, Ark rods really surprised me with there quality. I also fish (love) my pretty pink Caylin rod. It is super light w good back bone, got a lot of 5 -10 lb jacks, super under rated.

[@TackleJunky81]

I have a bunch of videos on the TCS rods...they are some of my favorites! The new X Series are awesome as well! 👊💪

[@classicamericanoldman1091]

I buy expensive gear, lures, rods and reels so that if I do or dont catch fish...its is 100% on me. It's takes equipment failure out of the equation. Now, I use Curado DC's at $259 and $150 - $250 rods... I buy Gary Yamamoto...but I have TONS of Googan and Strike King..and Bass Pro.. Been fishing 1 year only....

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@Brizendine7]

I’d like to see u do a review on the Dobyns xtasy rods. Like a 755. Something to throw 1/2 oz and 3/4 jigs and heavier and frog with

[@TackleJunky81]

It would have to be one heck of a sale for me to grab one of those.

[@Brizendine7]

@@TackleJunky81 run about 550. Around the holiday sale u can get them 30-40 percent off tho.

[@tdeeb6359]

Thanks for the new goal!

[@TackleJunky81]

Appreciate you watching buddy! 👊

[@MailmanDownEDC]

Been a while since I’ve watched your videos, Brother. This is Brian in Nashville GA, used to be “South GA Bass & RC” here on YT. Anyway, your videos have always been entertaining to watch and your opinions on the products you are reviewing have always been awesome!!! Stay safe and much love and respect to ya! 👊👊

[@TackleJunky81]

Hey Brian, good to see you back man! Appreciate the comment and thanks for watching! Hope all is well! 👊

[@MrJohnB-qs6dp]

Thanks for the great review on the Helium Rod!!💪🏻I agree a high-end rod is not for everyone. Just got a Kistler graphite rod 6'9" which is a light medium heavy for 100 normally 150. Great rod for jerkbait & flukes. Been throwing a fluke and seems I can throw it a mile!! Stay Safe & God Bless!!!

[@TackleJunky81]

My pleasure buddy! Kistler has a great selection! Appreciate you watching! 👊

[@juli82E]

I got the arthritis stuff going too, just picked up a St. Croix Victory 7'1" the grunt. It weight 3.5 Oz and is half the price, really love the rod...but they put the same damn keeper on there! Ugh! No doubt though, lighter nicer gear makes for being able to move my hand and shoulder the next day.

[@TackleJunky81]

That's a great deal...I'll have to check that one out! Sucks to get old, lol Appreciate you watching! 👊

[@bigmikefishingchonicles9950]

Great video bro I have a question for you and I would like to see you do a video on this subject So they say that a 7' medium heavy fast is the best rod for someone to get started with but if you buy one from one company and go to another brand it is totally different I would like to know how come people don't complain and make more consent from brand to brand

[@thepassionateangler4559]

Is that a revo rocket reel on that rod? Did you ever do a reel unboxing / review on that reel. Would love to see one

[@TackleJunky81]

It is and I was gonna review it, but then it got discontinued. I will probably do a comparison of it to the new one here soon.

[@MillerMurdaughFishing]

I have a 7ft heavy fast, 7ft ml spinning rod, and 7’10 heavy fast in the helium line. Amazing blanks and typical kistler quality. Hook keeper needs to go back to what it was on the helium 3 line however

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@victorxavier9977]

All valid points 😁👍

[@TackleJunky81]

Appreciate you watching! 👊

[@derektaylorfishing]

Using my Helium I have caught one over 10 and one over 9 in tournaments. I feel like the lighter the less fatigue and more sensitivity. Get what you can afford but don’t skimp on the rods you need to have the most sensitivity.

[@TackleJunky81]

💯 👊

[@slonefactor]

Well I spent $650 on a St. Croix legend Xtream and $800 on a MegaBass flipping rod but I try to stay in the $200-300 range.

[@TackleJunky81]

Good call! 👊

[@curtisloden7201]

Kistler will custom-build the rod for you. You can put whatever hook keeper you want on it.

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@56thAngelDust]

I can't lie TJ.... that black and blue rod paired with a red and black reel set off my ocd for the rest of the video.....🤣

[@TackleJunky81]

I hear ya! 🤣

[@makcatchem9614]

Question for you. I'm looking for a ride to throw half ounce finesse football jigs that have medium wire hooks not light wire. I was wondering should I purchase the medium heavy or do you think it would be beneficial to purchase the heavy medium heavy?

[@TackleJunky81]

If I was buying a rod for football jigs I'd go with a MH, but a bit longer like a 7'3" or 7'4".

[@aldeureaux5184]

LOL, I WISH I felt 60! LOL I agree, higher end gear is a little addicting! I only have a few $100+ rods but they do make a difference for sure. They are “more pleasant” or something. Kind of hard to describe.

[@TackleJunky81]

🤣 I hear ya and it can be hard to describe...basically they just feel better, lol

[@cerebraltackle]

If the Helium is half as good as the Argon (in a linear comparison of price versus quality), then the Helium is a damn good investment. Yes, better equipment ONLY works if you know how to use it properly. Granted, the added sensitivity will still get you an advantage...but putting it to use is the key.

[@TackleJunky81]

💯

[@dickiehoskins9835]

Great video man!

[@TackleJunky81]

Thank you brother! 👊

[@ukstorm2727]

I'm creeping up the ladder, up to $279, never would have dreamed I'd even spend that much , btw see you were throwing a ridge worm, you do any good on them? I have several packs and have never thrown them

[@TackleJunky81]

Nothing worth talking about yet, but it seems like a good worm.

[@spaceman61]

I just bought a $700 reel, the Steez ct sv tw 70. just for a dedicated pitching reel. now Im looking for a rod to go with it, leaning towards the g loomis nrx+…. whats your thoughts on this?

[@TackleJunky81]

That's funny because I ordered that reel this morning. I'm putting it on a Kistler Chromium. I've never used a NRX, but I'd imagine they are really nice.

[@Justin.Hawkins]

I have that same exact rod, what do you think you would throw on it

[@TackleJunky81]

I like it for working the bottom...texas rigs/jigs.

[@Justin.Hawkins]

@@TackleJunky81 sorry I commented before watching the entire video. I just find that model in particular seemed to be lacking that initial backbone to pull fish away from cover. I use the 7’3 4.5 for the cover stuff, that one I just haven’t found a good use for the way I fish anyway.

[@BassFishingNEB]

late to the video but the older i get the more i really appreciate the lighter higher end rods myself.

[@TackleJunky81]

💯

[@SoSaysYou]

I think for most anglers, $150 rod and $150 reel is a great combo and "affordable". However, whatever the budget, purchasing a rod separate from the reel will help with comfort and success.

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@retflo2583]

Enjoyed the review, little beyond my price range but that worm looks prettty good...

[@TackleJunky81]

Appreciate you watching brother! 👊

[@DividedWeAllFall]

I just ordered their jerkbait rod off tackle warehouse the other day. It is Listed as $300 with $50 off for their sale going on. But it somehow rang up as $199. Not complaining :)

[@TackleJunky81]

Right on! 👊

[@richardmcguire6443]

U just slide your hook up on the hook keeper its not attached on both ends. I have several kistlers and don't have undo any of my baits.

[@winstonrocco1981]

Guys it doesn’t take 400 dollar rods and reels to make you a better fisherman. But if it makes you feel like it does carry on.

[@seizedcarcass8440]

To an extent it can affect your fishing abilities to use higher end gear. I have personally never spent more that $150 on a single combo. Lures and line are a different story for me.

[@TackleJunky81]

Appreciate you watching buddy! 👊

[@leannesmith3660]

Higher end equipment only helps the person fishing if they are already more advanced. Your average Joe who goes a couple times a month and sets in a lawn chair drinking a beer won't appreciate high end gear. That isn't bashing - just my observation. But they will spend $$ on beer!

[@TackleJunky81]

Great point Leanne! Appreciate you watching!

[@shanescott3168]

I am sure it is a very nice rod but would be paranoid about damaging or breaking it. I stick to $200 or less reels and $150 or less rods.

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@rodicmilorad5]

Tht rod looks better than googan rods

[@TackleJunky81]

💯

[@nigel7297]

👍👍👍

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@Whitehalo117]

My opinion is yes and no, bottom contact yes 100%. Topwater no, moving baits no. Jerkbaits however yes. My take is only from the perspective of producing more fish.

[@leepao6302]

To be honest high-end gear does not improve your fishing at, but it's only good for the pleasure and experience, like drive and regular car and a fancy expensive car

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@SpookyRedz]

I had 8 of em even the z bone don’t break it , this is why I won’t go back to Kistler

[@TackleJunky81]

They broke?

[@SpookyRedz]

@@TackleJunky81 yes I had 8 , heliums , zbone , and klx , once they break no replacements , I won’t buy ever again

[@SpookyRedz]

@@TackleJunky81 thank god for shimano reels built tuff cause I had to replace all of them , took my new Chronarch MGLs off got new rods

[@SpookyRedz]

Blow up rods , but they are light

[@agave1314]

🐸✝️

[@TackleJunky81]

👊💪

[@dash9658]

When it comes to combos I’d say a $300 combo is like 10 times better than a $100 combo. A $50O combo is probably just a little better than a $300. The higher you get the improvements are there but only small differences.

[@TackleJunky81]

Appreciate you watching buddy! 👊