Fishing Upgraded KastKing Kestrel Elite BFS Reel - SDS Customs Full Ceramic Micro Bearings

[@rawrfishing]

What do you think about the sound of Full Ceramic Bearings?

[@pacman_17]

full ceramic sound is tolerable. those micro bearings in your tatula 100 sounds the worst LOL

[@Swimbait_fishing]

Sounds like crap, but if it improves performance then worth it

[@rawrfishing]

I think it's the bearings vibrating. Maybe I should try the new roro ones with the o rings

[@rawrfishing]

I like the sound when casting, I don't like it as much reeling it in :(

[@Swimbait_fishing]

@@rawrfishing I think full ceramic bearing have a tendency to make noise, probably still make noise even if you stopped them from vibrating

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

Morning Jimmy. Two things I discovered while fishing the Kestrel Elite with the OEM bearings. 1- Setting the spool tension to the tiniest hint of play (moving the spool side to side you can feel it move but you CANT hear it) the brakes setting exactly doubles the weight of the lure. Using a 2 gram lure works perfect with the brakes on 4. A 5g lure works perfect with brakes at 10. I think KastKing did this on purpose because the reel is good for weights up to around 5grams. (since the brakes actually go up to 11 ((listed as MAX)) that would be a 5.5 g lure) Using settings this way, I can cast a lure, NOT touch the spool and when the lure hits the water ill only get a loop or two of overspool! 2- Remember there is also a centrifugal braking system inside. Even if you set the BRAKE to minimum, the centrifugals are still slowing down the spool at its higher RPMs so removing magnets MAY not make a difference or at least not a negligible difference. Thanks for focusing on the Kestrel, i'm loving this reel and of course any videos you create using it.

[@rawrfishing]

Thanks for the testing and insights. I also have a tiny play on my spool. But maybe I should do one more click and try again. Now I have the roro bearings In, it's been nothing but fantastic fishing. Used brakes at 1 for the EPF swim and on a 1/32nd Oz jig. Hope to get that video out next week as I got 2 videos ahead of this one! Cheers mate

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

@@rawrfishing Awesome, looking forward to them my friend!

[@rawrfishing]

Thx! Nab your bearings yet?

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

@@rawrfishing Yup! Installed a set of ABEC 7 rated hybrid ceramics from the company named "ABEC357" I did a video comparing the OEM's, OEM's flushed and the hybrids. Just finished uploading it on my channel.

[@rawrfishing]

Nice. There's a lot of bearing factories that makes abec7 rated bearings. I have gotten some from Zoty before. Worked great overall, but they don't have micros

[@MBPFishing]

That is one heck of a reel even before the upgrade.👊👍😄

[@rawrfishing]

Oh yeah. Insane reel that can cast so light and barely any backlashes

[@TheHunterFisher]

It’s honestly disappointing to see so many negative comments shutting the Kestrel down… BFS is ALL about modifications. That is literally it’s sole foundation of where it came from Japan. Unlike other bfs reels that big companies have produced, the Curado bfs specifically, this reel is performing great in the lightweight ranges stock. The only mods you absolutely should need to do is clean the bearings, while the Curado bfs to come even close to the kestrels performance you have to buy a $100 spool and new set of bearings… that puts a Curado that is competitive with this reel at $290-$320… This reel is quite competitive with $280-$300 reels, not Shimano budget options. There’s absolutely no reason to go with the Curado bfs over the Kestrel in my honest opinion. The price on this reel is very much justified seeing that it IS the lightest reel in the world, the lightest spool in the world. An overbraked system? Not a big deal really, but Shimanos slightly lower priced reels need multiple upgrades that make that put the price/performance ratio much more over the kestrel. It’s simply not smart to choose the Curado over the Kestrel and I haven’t even put my hands on it yet, video evidence is enough.

[@rawrfishing]

Well said Hunter! I think I have been harsh on my review so far, but It was intended as KastKing does a wonderful job listening. Although I may hit em hard with my comments, I really like this reel. And you know that I have play with many reels at this point. I think bearing upgrades is definitely something that all BFS folks do as well. All of my Japanese reels have aftermarket bearings, whether they are Roro, SDS or Hedgehog Studios. If we can fiddle with the brakes or have KastKing make some changes, Perhaps the stock bearings are not so bad. After all, my two out of the box casting videos, the distances were in all acceptable ranges. After doing the trout magnet and counting the number of cranks, it was actually pretty impressive. I hope you get the opportunity to try the Kestrel soon! I would be happy to send it down if you need it.

[@TheHunterFisher]

@@rawrfishing I myself have surprisingly not done a single bearing upgrade but I’d love to soon. I think that out of the box this reel is definitely worth $220 without bearing upgrades, which I’m glad because you yourself know that I was nervous that this reel was not gonna hold up to par on price and performance. Out of the box, this reel is so much more worth it in comparison to the $200 or less Shimano options, in my opinion. I’d rather buy a DWU over any of those shimanos because it is way better value. I believe I have one on the way to test, it’s just taking a bit longer than I’m assuming😂I think you can know what I mean with that. But there is a Kestrel on its way to me still.

[@rawrfishing]

the DWU is amazing. Even the newer version that doesn't have the dynamic braking. If other CDM brands don't step up, Tsu DWU will hold the crown for the best budget performing UL BFS Reel for a long time. I can't wait to see what they will do with the Kestrel BFS (non elite version) and perhaps what would replace the OG Zephyr BFS Reel. We, the BFS Community, have always provided feedback to KastKing. Don't be too disappointed with how other responds as comments are better than no comments!

[@TheHunterFisher]

@@rawrfishing I think it’ll hold that spot for a good while. Really it could improve in terms of bearings or braking. I’d like to see something challenge it. Or maybe a budget round reel option be really good. I think my gripe with the comments is that the comments on this video are disproportionately negative. They act like they absolutely ruined every good possibility of this reel when the reality is overbraked is still way better than under in my opinion.

[@rawrfishing]

bearings were not bad! Definitely could use micros, but that's where enthusiasts can come in and do their mod. Out of the box, the stock bearings/brakes can handle all the light stuff that I wanted for my typical fishing environment off the kayak, so I am happy :). now for stream, i think i'll have to grab me some of those roro bearings!

[@pacman_17]

Important lesson for KastKing, zero brakes needs to be no braking at all. People will get very picky in that $200+ range

[@rawrfishing]

I like how you worded that. Going to borrow that In my finalized review of the reel after my roro bearing testing.

[@bicalijd_pierfishing9652]

Hello my friend happy fishing Saturday I like those ceramic bearings

[@rawrfishing]

Thx! It's loud huh?

[@bicalijd_pierfishing9652]

@@rawrfishing yup 👍🏼🎣 I love how far it cast

[@TheD510addict]

Hmm. 170ish for Avail Microcast spool plus HH micro bearings for SLX BFS, or Kestrel ran stock? 1/20th oz and up.

[@rawrfishing]

That wouldn't be fair comparison. Both must have the bearings to be fair. I would have to play more with the Kestrel to decide. Haven't tried roro bearings yet. Will after breakfast

[@davidblevins1027]

I gave up on removing the side plate bearing, I can't get it out. Seems mine is super tight fit. Even getting under it and pulling outword I can't get it out.

[@rawrfishing]

I hate FTB braking style plates as it's always hard to do. But don't give up if u do have the roro bearings. Find a local reel tune up guy. They can knock it out for ya

[@FishiganMilligan]

Very nice! I'm going to have to get this reel. What's a good entry level rod option to go with it for a new BFS guy?

[@rawrfishing]

Depending on what you want to throw, Tsurinoya got the best quality for the price and can be found at www.baitfinesseempire.com if you are in the US. I highly suggest checking the lure weight ranges of each rod to see what works for you.

[@christopherlee4613]

Looking at how insanely easy you cast it, could seriously look into it. Since its made with Magnesium and graphite... looks good but your bearing upgrade sounds like a DC reel not getting enough eletricity....🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂 stay safe an tight lines Jimbo... happy fishing with the Kestrel... I have 4 Kastking BFS reels at the moment...

[@rawrfishing]

Thx man. Definitely casts pretty far and accurate. I think braking issue needs to be addressed, but it's still casts in all good ranges. Got the roro bearing on and gonna go back out this morning!

[@ichphan]

Wish KastKing make a BFS that come out of the box that's decent without modification....$200 and has to making modifications, is it worth it.

[@rawrfishing]

Although I am pretty harsh on my review, the casting have been pretty good. If it wasn't for my pain, I think I wouldn't have a problem with the over braking. I think I would still give this a huge thumbs up because it's going torward a right direction. May need a few small tweaks, but I am not going to say it's a bad reel just because I highlighted a few things I didn't like. I will compile a review video once I feel I have done all the testing I can do without breaking it 😂

[@TheHunterFisher]

Cleaning bearings or replacing bearings is hardly modifications at all

[@rawrfishing]

lol.. it's a hard modification for FTB style Braking! That one retainer clip is so hard to get in and out!

[@TheHunterFisher]

@@rawrfishing I used my fiancés jewelry tools with the DWU! Lol

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

Don't be too hash on the bearing replacement. I replace the bearings in all my Daiwa's and Shimano's and those are $300+ reels. I do wish ALL these companies would put hi quality bearings in the first place and just charge us for them. I just replaced my Kestrel Elite spool bearings to ABEC 7 rated hybrid ceramics. Only cost $40 for the set and the reel is even more amazing. If KastKing past that $40 charge to us (would actually be even less due to buying in mass bulk) the Elite would only cost $260 and be better then the $300-350 hi end Daiwa's and Shimano's. I'm a big fan of anything made in Japan but I gotta give KastKing credit, their made in China reels are pretty awesome.

[@RainbowsAndHerpes]

What was that rod matey? I’ve been reel keen on a one piece.

[@rawrfishing]

The first one is actually a 2 piece... But discontinued. Tsurinoya Ares C472UL. 2nd one is a 1 piece prototype rod from Matzuo. Should be out next year

[@dominiquelavaut9052]

Bonjour raWr fishing jai visionné plusieurs vidéos sur moulinets kastking kirstel bfs mai il impossible de trouver sur Aliexpress , je voudrais savoir ou vous l avez acheté , merci pour les vidéos 👍

[@rawrfishing]

Thank you for watching. I have gotten mine from a small US store called Bait Finesse Empire. The reel will be on Aliexpress probably later on the year after they fulfill all their preorders. It seems like their primary target right now is the US market, but hopefully they will have some on AliExpress for the global market soon.

[@dominiquelavaut9052]

@@rawrfishing Thank You For It To Be Answered by Hoping To Find It Well Good Code

[@noobpyrotech9991]

So how do these bearing compare to Roro, boca, or Spool Speed? When I get my BFS reel I was trying to decide which ones to get. I am not worried about the sound, just manly want distance. I know this company will come back eventually. They update their facebook, and orders will have a long wait.

[@rawrfishing]

Micros will never beat full size bearings for distance. I would pass on this if your goal is distance. Especially for heavier lures

[@noobpyrotech9991]

@@rawrfishing actually looking for distance for ultralight lures.

[@rawrfishing]

There is no difference really. if you are trying to make this reel better... remove magnets is the only way to get distance. But you still have the issue of a very small spool. Small spools suffers in dispensing line, thus shorter distances. I would opt for a different reel if you really need distance. or spinning reels

[@yaknlife6894]

How do you know what size bearing kit to get for your reels?

[@rawrfishing]

U can look em up. Most stores that sells bearings knows or will know. Or you can contact the reel company and ask. Lastly, u can compare bearings from your collection

[@엔초비-i4g]

What is the size of each bearing?

[@rawrfishing]

You will hear me say it within the first 60 seconds of the video :) thanks for watching!

[@schbrthkumpau]

not a big fan of ceramic bearing a bit noisy for me but I have full ceramic on my daiwa tatula type R 😂super long cast 🤣more than enough for giant snakehead

[@rawrfishing]

Definitely noisy. I rather have hybrids. But yeah sounds like a good reel to launch frogs super far

[@noahhirtreiter538]

Are they better than the roros?

[@rawrfishing]

Loud lol... Feels not as smooth. Distance is okay. Better than stock, not sure if it's better than Roro without measuring.

[@panchoarce5688]

You should try the kestrel sfs i want to order but still not sure .... i own the zephyr sfs a really enjoy it.... i think if you like it or dislike it would help with a decision

[@rawrfishing]

I currently have no plans on getting that reel. Budget is tight.

[@SyaidanYakob97]

Drave cap 🇲🇾 one of our best local product

[@rawrfishing]

Nice! i got some stuff here i need to edit! the ducky duck jr is fun!

[@pygmyhorde1821]

With the brakes set to zero, I can look at a reel like I'm gonna cast and make it backlash... Back to practicing...

[@rawrfishing]

Lol.. Every reel is different. It's easy casting here

[@DefinitelyNotABot713]

For anyone doing this mod, don’t do what I did.. watch your spring! The spring clip on the side plate went flying. I can’t find it and no one sells one that small to fit the Kestrel. I reached out to Kastking and they said they don’t even have spare parts in stock yet. FML..

[@rawrfishing]

Do it in the bag! Mine flew too. But hard floor for the win 😂 it should be fine with out it. My side plate seems to hold bearings down. So it may not be an issue. If u have any other old reels not in use, maybe check If they fit

[@DefinitelyNotABot713]

@@rawrfishing Yeah I’ll be sure to use a bag next time. Hmm I was wondering if during usage the bearing would move (slide laterally) without the clip..

[@Swimbait_fishing]

Did you check hedgehog? They sell various sizes

[@DefinitelyNotABot713]

@@Swimbait_fishing No I have not. Let me do that now. For sure 9mm doesn’t fit. Let me see if they have smaller than that.

[@rawrfishing]

I had to pry my bearings out, so maybe it will stay in place.

[@casperd6388]

Why are u a fan of noise bearings

[@rawrfishing]

Who said I was?

[@udineudinese]

Nice...

[@rawrfishing]

Thx...

[@gerlor9425]

Sorry but the only music to my ear is DC.

[@rawrfishing]

whatever floats your boat :)

[@kcrsxtypes]

Only music to your ears is money flying out of your wallet apparently 🤣

[@rawrfishing]

lol! i have never been a fan of DC reels other than the sounds. i just gotten one to play and the distance isn't as great and the braking isn't even perfect. I got used to my daiwa reels and other magnetic braking reels and can bomb casts pretty effectively. But i do wanna try their highest end ones with the more expensive DC module. Gotta try em all!

[@hiltoncds7529]

😃👏🌟🎣🐟🐟🐟🇧🇷🇧🇷

[@rawrfishing]

🙌🙌👍👍🎣🎣

[@predatorarmyfishing5901]

You need to lub your ceramic bearing 😉better with lub

[@rawrfishing]

Nah I run all ceramic and hyrbrid dry. Lube may reduce friction... But there is still resistance. It's like walking in a pool. Water is super low viscosity... But it still have resistance, thus you walk slower in water than on dry land

[@predatorarmyfishing5901]

@@rawrfishing i know what you say but a little few thats better... I have ceramics in my zephyr and i Cast dry, but i m wondering for lub, i put just one drop in bearing and Cast was better and distance too 😉i put vaseline oil in.

[@rawrfishing]

Maybe for light lures, but i won't be testing dry vs lube at this time. I removed the set of bearings and now using roro micro hybrids. They are amazing

[@quanloikid1]

I returned My kestrel. The ceramics don't sound comfortable

[@rawrfishing]

oh really? what did you not like about it most?

[@quanloikid1]

I returned my Kestrel. Listening to your reel is painful. Good luck

[@rawrfishing]

Sorry to hear that. It was a bit louder i guess for the viewers as the mic was right there in front of the reel while my ears were above. I took em out already and installed a different set.

[@panchoarce5688]

I think for the price the kestrel goes for it shouldnt need upgrades....

[@rawrfishing]

Even Japanese reels can still be improved with high end micro bearings.

[@panchoarce5688]

@@rawrfishing i agree but kastking is not at that level in the bfs game ..... im a big kastking person but still a shimano bfs over kastking

[@rawrfishing]

Their reels are progressing. So give it time. Shimano might be better, but let's face it. They are not here actively growing the market in the United States. But I do hope that reels like the Kestrel will change their minds. I also hope the curado bfs reel have proven that the US is totally interested in seeing more of their bfs products here.

[@TheHunterFisher]

I think the same goes for the Curado BFS yet so many praise it. This reel dusts the Curado bfs if you just clean off the bearings and oil them.

[@rawrfishing]

the curado was definitely priced high. it was so close to the Scorpion, which was very interesting. Glad Yen is down and everyone is getting the SLX BFS!