Shimano Sustain Review | HIGH END Performance

[@ByronTeaHill]

How good is this giveaway!?!?! I've gotta admit I'm a fan of rod clips to hold your lures above the spool

[@4wdglampingaustralia102]

Love the info you gave about all the stuff you review. I have learnt a whole lot.

[@JaymieJones]

It’s an epic giveaway, not many high end reels get given away. Hopefully I can win it to help replace part of one of the combos I lost down the rapids chasing bass the other week 😂🤦🏻‍♂️(bought some leashes now)

[@ByronTeaHill]

Awww yeahhh!!!

[@volleyballnation3135]

It’s an awesome giveaway. I recently lost a combo going after big tarpon and snook. Hopefully I can win it to help replace to get my young fishing journey running again!

[@harrisonsfishing9763]

Just like you Byron I’m a hook keep above the spool kind of guy. Whether that be a hook keep which you have on the Tcurve premium (like I have on my Zodias) or a hook keep that comes with the rod manufactured (like my Samaki zing gen 3). Secondly i personally think the $300-450 range is the start of the high end reels mainly because of how gear has become a lot better over the past few years. Awesome review and video as always Byron!

[@cashhudson7984]

Hey Byron, I reckon the high end reel price starts around $430, and I definitely think all rods should come with hook keepers to save the islets from rusting and breaking. The Sustain and tcurve look sick!, as always, a great video, cheers.🎣👊👍🔥

[@gsfishing5384]

Another great Video Byron! Would be awesome to see you review the 2021 Daiwa Legalis LT! i think the entry level price for a high end reel sits at about $300 mark- $350 for opening and i love all my rods coming with little hook keepers think its quite important

[@gsfishing5384]

@Byron Tea Hill

[@donnastormer9652]

I have used the Stratic CI4 , now the Vanford from the beginning of that reel and have LOVED it UNTIL the first service. The reel is never the same after a service weather from the factory or local repair. I fish 30 hours a week so perfect performance is important to me. I have traditionally replaced my reel about every 12-14 months so this year I am going with a Sustain 2500. I fish Silver Salmon in Alaska and speckled trout and Red Drum in Florida so my reels take a beating!

[@ianpepper1343]

You've clearly made a huge personal commitment to this channel Byron, and I can't even imagine the work that goes into getting the camera shots, drone footage and editing to such an amazing standard- so congratulations and thanks for all you do! I don't understand why hook-keepers aren't built into every rod. Even if you never want to use them, there's no downside to having them there- and the only way you wouldn't need them is if you rig up on the water- which is a waste of fishing time. No chance! As for reel prices- it obviously comes down to size. In the Shimanos, the CI4/Vanford has most of the tech, but with industrial plastic parts to cut costs. The Sustain/Twin Power reels have everything you need and the Stella adds a bit more bling. They're beautiful pieces of equipment but I don't need 'gorgeous' in a reel, and it would ruin my day if I bashed one on the rocks. The Sustain is definitely the sweet spot for me, and the T-Curve Premium/Sustain combo looks like pure gold! Again- thanks for an amazing channel!

[@ByronTeaHill]

Ian, thank you very much for this comment, it makes me feel appreciated dude. Some good thoughts in here that I agree with. Tight lines legend and thank you again

[@JaymieJones]

I know I’ll sound like a broken record, but great video yet again. Really appreciate the time you take with these reviews. Onto the giveaway answers, I think that 400 - 500 mark for starting the entry level for high end gear, it seems like it’s kind of consistent with other brands and the price range just feels right. The hook keepers, yes, on every rod please, I don’t mind too much where it is, above the spool, in the butt section, (nice being able to attach to spool too) just give me one. I like things to be tidy and hook keepers help. Thanks again legend.

[@whicham1]

New to the Channel mate but loving the reviews. For me the entry Level into High end spin reels would be $600+. I think Shimano have narrowed it down to 3 tiers. Entry level, mid range and High end. The Nasci been at the top of the entry level at $169. Then the jump up into the $300 reel range, Stradic, Vanford etc. Sustain FJ at the top of that tier at $450. Then you have that massive price gap until you hit the Twin power at $729 which I think high end starts for Shimano spin. Hook keepers aren't a deal breaker. I prefer none on rods I'm trying to go light as possible with. But prefer hook keepers on my swimbait and Barra rods.

[@kiefeha6293]

1. I reckon $300 is where high end reels start. I guess it comes down to relativity as I have recently started fishing and anything over $150 is a lot for a beginner. 2. Manufacturers should definitely put hook keepers on their rods. One simple hook keeper can prevent getting spiked by rogue hooks especially being a beginner. Keep doing what you're doing Byron! I'm learning so much from this channel!

[@mickplatts6196]

Another great video! I've always looked at the sustain as being the start of the high end. I see the $200-400 range as the best value for good quality reels. Under $200 and it gets a bit hit and miss. Over $400 and you get that quality feel that puts a smile on your face and once you get into the $600+ range it probably becomes more of a luxury.

[@kingbull09]

So glad you did this review. The sustain reel is definitely on my wish list and this review has just proven it’s a worthy addition. Like other people have said, I think 450-500 is about where the high end starts. Like all good technology it eventually filters its way the down line of products to the point where it offers good value for money. Although most of my rods have a hook keeper and am a fan of having them, most times I still end up using an eyelet. Old habits I guess. Thanks mate. Channels doing great.👍🏻

[@owenx6993]

I believe high end starts at $500 onwards where we tend to see big improvements on weight, reliability and water resistance. A hook keeper on a rod is always welcomed for people like me who love to have their lure outfit rigged and ready while bait fishing on the off-chance of a bust up! Awesome reel for its price point and looks amazing too 🔥

[@vikingprotocols2933]

I think the high end starts around the $400 mark, seems to be the biggest jump in quality. I am a MASSIVE fan of the hook keeper on a rod, makes a heap of difference as I rig my rods up the day before I go and have to transport them in my car - the hook keeper means I know where the hook is, much better there than on a guide or in my finger!! Excellent review mate, keep the content coming!

[@mariamichaelmekhail1049]

Hook keepers are absolutely brilliant, keeps hooks well clear of guides and neatly tucked against the rod. I often find, when lending any gear to friends new to fishing, they almost always hook lures to guides (unfortunately instinctive) so the hook keeper would be a neat way of solving that problem as well. High end is relative to what the market has to offer. The 'ceiling' for lightweight spin reels seems to be around the $1000 mark (Shimano Stella and Daiwa Exist for example) so $400-$500 would be a reasonable, comparative entry point between 0 and $1000 for high end reels.

[@matthewscheimer2387]

Byron, Mate, another great video with well structured research and no boring bits. Great work, to answer your questions. $480 is where I start to see high and features and design materials. And absolutely yes to a hook keeper, my guides cry every time I kook my lures and plastics on. Please keep up the great work, looking forward to the garmin review. Tight Lines Mate.

[@alft69]

Thanks for feeding my inner tackle-rat, Byron. That was delicious! 😋 I like to look at the price points in terms of small, medium and large, so I reckon the Sustain is at at the top of the mid range. I’d say the high end would start around $500 and I’d expect to be getting something made in Japan at that level. I laughed out loud when you mentioned the hook keeper. I noticed it earlier on in the clip as I use similar after market jobs on my rods. I love cork handled rods, they just seem more high end to me. I have a some old Ian Miller Bream Busters which I love (also with no hook keeper!). I think G-Loomis do cork handles best and all their rods have hook keepers as standard, too. It is a bit of a pet peev of mine that after spending $500+ on a rod that I need to add a dodgy 10 cent hook keeper! Also, it’s great to see Shimano supporting quality content creators. Congratulations all round.

[@michaelshaw3890]

Hi Byron, I would say $450 mark for high end , I purchased a sustain back in December .. love it. I would put it up with my Luvias. I would prefer built in hook keeps on the rod, the plastic add on’s are ok, but the rubber band doesn’t last long. Keep up the great reviews, love ya work. 🍻🍻

[@ericparanoir]

I feel like the price point of which a mid range reel becomes a premium reel price point is at about $400-$450. To me it seems like that price kinda signifies if you wana get in serious or just a regular hobbyist. I do like hook keepers, I’ve been seeing it in a number of daiwa rods but not so much with Shimano. It’s handy for fishos who fish different locations in a session and a secure spot to hook your hooks without damaging the rod Keep the awesome videos coming bud

[@SamDewing]

Another great video! I refuse to buy rods without hook keepers now. I've only ever had one without one but that Shimano T Curve Premium is very tempting. The after market keepers are trash and the orings that hold them on always perish on me. High end reels start at $400 in my eyes.

[@scauduro221095]

Literally every time I see you talk about gear I want to get it! Great engagement in the delivery mate In regards to the price point on a high end reel I’d say anything that cracks the $500 mark in the smallest sizing is the beginning. You really see that jump up from your $200-300 reels as you start to get the nice extras often with weight reduction as well. Personally I love a hook clip - prevents easy mistakes around the eyelets and is also a good way to keep leader knots outside of the eyelets while having enough leader for most situations

[@ByronTeaHill]

hahahaha, this channel is dangerous for you mate!!!!! thanks for the support legend

[@robberlin2230]

1) Hook keepers yes, but location of hook keeper is equally important 2) Sustain has been a benchmark for a while for me, having used stradics they were the setup I would've upgraded to if I hadn't discovered 2012 luvias' 3) Am liking the t curve rod however didn't see a lot of the action, was it powerful down low, the idea of a joint there is a little mmmmmm....

[@duanesfishn]

Another cool review mate. I grew up with Shimano and always saw the Sustain as a semi-high end reel. I always saw over $500=high end so I agree with the high end entry level description. I use hook keepers and hats off to Daiwa who place them on the butt section (Infeets) as I’m constantly getting pricked by lures on hook keepers above the reel seat when picking up my rods. Cheers.

[@prge0709]

I really enjoy your candid reviews on different products. I’ve always felt that a hook keeper is really handy thing to have as you can avoid hanging your lure on the guides that can cause all sorts of issues. Reels in the $300 range is starting to get into the high end range. But I also believe you get what you pay for. Pay some more $$$ for a quality product and it can last a lifetime. Thanks for the great videos.

[@hamishmoore3625]

The price point for me is around $350 and up that a nice entry level price but once u start u can’t go back to lower end. And I think it’s a must that hook keepers are a must they are so handy. Love the video keep them coming.

[@joellockard6415]

Another great review mate with some awesome information on both products! I personally think high end reels start at about $400 plus but in saying that anything above about $280 will get you some really nice gear that won't break the bank! Also hook keepers are a must above the reel seat where I won't get lures stuck in my hand picking up my rods and also to save my reel seats and guides from unnecessary damage. Thanks again for another great review! 🎣

[@michaelmueller7017]

Byron , like the way you do your reviews without the promoting or demoting of products just the pro's and con's , enjoy your content too. Well now if you are FIFO miner or a tradie upper end is Stella/Exsense /Twin Power world or if you work in retail like me then its a Nasci or MAYBE a Stradic 😅 I love my rod clips but find the ones that are on the odd factory rod pretty fiddly and mostly useless and sorry to say that includes the one you are using here (which I have tried )which at least is easily removed and consigned to the bottom of storage box. I have resorted to binding on a snake guide at a suitable height above my foregrip (usually 30-70mm ) on top of rod opposite to reel and works a treat as super easy to locate hook by feel. I also use this as a tether point in my kayak when i'm travelling from spot to spot or trolling. Cheers mate and keep it coming,

[@AMLuc1320]

Hey Byron, I just watched this video again after a year or so as I’m thinking about adding the Sustain to my collection. I was going through the comments and it looks like the $500 mark is what most Aussie’s see as the start of high end reels. I’m going to push that to $600 + and to be more specific about the 2 big brands, it starts with Certate at Daiwa and Twin Power at Shimano. Cheers

[@Nardinator2340]

Hi Byron another outstanding video. Your videos help me so much when it comes to choosing gear to but. I think that a high end reels would start at around $400 mark. I also think that all rods should come with a hook keeper so your hooks can't mess up your guides.

[@ByronTeaHill]

Really pumped I could help Leonardo! appreciate the comment dude

[@randomwally]

I'd agree that high end starts around the $500 mark. Best value for money is in the $250-$400 space. Value in reels is coming along leaps and bounds though. Had a play with a Nasci FC in store after your last review and I'd put it on par with my Stradic FKs at half the RRP. Of course, over the past couple of years I've bought several Stradic FLs that feel so much nicer I don't think I can bring myself to go backwards now, even if I can buy almost 2 Nasci FCs for 1 Stradic FL. I find many hookkeepers to be hard to use and plenty of designs break with minimal use so I use the first guide on my rods (always hooking through the frame though to not damage the running surface inside the guide). It's not something I even consider when choosing a rod.

[@ByronTeaHill]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Wally!!! Good read, Entered

[@Ken-fisho]

Hey Byron im new to your channel discovered by chance and happy i did your clear and concise verbal skills are easy to understand and your vids are no bull infotainment starting price for high end gear i think should be around the 300-350 mark as i know alot of good fishos who just cant afford to spend mega dollars on gear like myself with cost of family and living expenses leaves little for pleasure but would no doubt benefit from it... on the hook keeper i would like all rods to have them as it would save on the guides from scratching nicking rusting and even epoxy cracking but if they dont well thats fine they'll probably have em on top shelf rods which will be beyond our price point anyway

[@ibbyfaraj1915]

Lmao ur smashing it with the giveaways Byron! 🔥🔥🔥 personally i believe $450-$500 is the start to the medium range reels. I actually like those hook keeper looks very satisfying flipping them over and looks like they wont annoy you when casting . 🐊

[@wattoak6666]

I would think that $450 would be the minimum for a high end reel. I just got back from a trip with a new revelry and I admit that I may not go back to cheaper reels, as it was the most beautiful reel I have used. 100% I want hook keepers on a rod, I end up adding them if it doesn't which is a pain. Great review, I love that you go that bit further with getting the technical information from the manufacturer.

[@jacksonbennetts271]

Once again another good review Byron, I would say the high end market starts at around $450-$500, and yes I'm a huge fan of rod clips

[@dynamite67e17]

I think high end reels start at the $300 mark as you start to see lots of extra features in the reels. Having a hook keeper on a rod is a big plus for me as it moves them out of the way of the guides so they don’t get damaged.

[@ByronTeaHill]

Agree!

[@chriswebster9646]

As a life long time angler, i have used reels from Sienna/Aird through to Exist/Saltiga/Stella. There is obviously a natural progression from the lower to high end, depending on financial circumstances and overall willingness to spend the money.. gotta crawl before you ball right! To the question… i would consider around $450 to $500 to be high end entry level. This is where the rubber hits the road for $$ vs quality for me. Do i like lure clips? No, i love them. Thinking of the alternative here? Guide feet? No thanks. Possibly drag knobs but being a bit of a goose, id catch myself and not the fish im targeting. Cheers brother love the content.

[@mattpelosi6403]

Thanks for the review chieftain as always. I think you are about right, I'd say the high end gear starts from approx $400 going up to $1000+ (have you seen Diawa's new 22 Exist - looks unreal). Re: hook ties/lure clips, I personally love them. I find that they are especially great for trout fishing as your moving/wading about all day. Just nice to know your lure is secure and tangle free at the next spot!

[@kevinlinfishing]

Thanks for another great video! Please keep them coming. 1) In line with the Shimano theme, I feel “high-end” reels start with the Stradic / Vanford at around $300. 2) I think rods over $100 should have a hook keeper as a standard feature.

[@lukerhodes8026]

I'd say $450 is about the starting point. Rods should have a hook keeper, but so many do it wrong... so maybe it's better without. Been very keen to get hold of a Sustain, good to hear your thoughts on it

[@maxpatterson2580]

Hey Byron I think the high end reel price starts at around the $400 range and yes manufacturers should include hook keepers on all rod.

[@jacklucy2]

Thanks for the great review once again Byron! I purchased a 5000 Sustain last week and can honestly say price point , features and fit for purpose (in my case beach caster, ) the Sustain was in a place of its own. Fast retrieve, light weight and relatively small in size in comparison to other brands. Great job Shimano!!! As for the high end price Point , I consider anything around the $600 mark to be a higher end reel with notable differences. As far as the hook clips …. Yes yes and yes! A must have

[@pjmack75]

That $500 point is where I think the reels start to show why they cost that amount. Smoothness increases and drags improve. I like the keeper above the reel seat. Great video.

[@ByronTeaHill]

Great point

[@r.j.jocson7980]

Another great video in testing those new Shimano reels. I think that the starting price for high end reels is $400 (like the Stradic) since most of the tech from the high end reels trickle down on the affordable ones. Most definitely rods should have hook keepers to spare the guides from having the hooks on them. Again, great review and insight on a Shimano reel. Cheers!

[@ByronTeaHill]

Good call!

[@westhamcam2769]

Hi Byron, great vid again. For me the high end reels start at 500where the revelry is at. As to the lure holder it's not a deal breaker but surely rods aimed at lure fishing should have one. Love a bit of cork myself!

[@ByronTeaHill]

Nice!

[@Gtanti2012]

Hi Byron, personally I think you’re getting into that high end echelon at around the $450-480 mark. Mid range from $200 and entry below. Hook keepers are a must which I purchase for all my combos if they don’t have one already so would be nice if it were just included. Love your videos mate keep it up!

[@tysonle2198]

Huge fan of shimano and I’m loving these shimano reviews of the new shimano reels! I’ve been wanting this reel since I’ve seen it.

[@ByronTeaHill]

Glad you like them Tyson, she is a nice reel mate

[@lepoopoo]

Hi Byron, thanks for the review again! For myself, I think around the $300-$350 mark would be where we start stepping into the high end of reels. Which I hope I get the privilege of experience one day 😅. Hook keeper wise, I think all rods should have one. I used to throw hooks into the first guide but was told not to as it could damage it. So now I make sure to hook it on the leg instead of the ring on any rod that doesn't have a keeper. Thanks again for the great giveaway (I don't know how you manage to do so many but I'm not complaining 😂)

[@nickwatson2848]

Another great review mate! For me a high end reel starts around the $400 mark. Plenty of reels near that price that feel super smooth! And hook keepers are a must to protect the guides.

[@waynebusby6525]

Hook keeper? A must have! Start of high-end reels? I think Shimano have nailed it with the new Sustain. Around that $450 mark in 2022 buys you a silky smooth, solid feeling reel. I have the 5000 and it is as smooth as my slightly older model Stella. The 'trickle down' effect is something Shimano have nailed beautifully. Close your eyes, feel the new Sustain and you will struggle to tell it from most $700+ reels. If I win this competition you will be my new bestie! 😁

[@kristianwestley6275]

Thanks for the review Byron. I think the start of high end range reels varies with the brand for shimano seems to start at around the $450-550 mark and daiwa appears to start around the $350 point. Keep up the good content watching your videos has taught me so much about good gear and techniques for finesse fishing. And I personally prefer hook keepers. My wife’s rod doesn’t have a hook keep and always feel bad for holding the hook on the guide

[@geoffvandenbosch334]

Great video as always mate high end for me start in the 300 - 400 dollar mark but in recent years that has changed. With the big 2 companies they are starting to put a lot a of flagship features in more budget reels. which for the consumer is great. All rods should come with hook keepers.

[@ByronTeaHill]

Thanks Geoff! you're always on this channel supporting, thanks buddy

[@thegreatestoftherod5834]

Starting around the 400 mark is a good entry level for high end reels. And I love the hook keepers, little bit disappointed in the zodias not having one, my old shimano raider had one. I use the eyelets on my zodias now and find the eyelets are resting on things when i lean it up and my lures always get caught in things. With the hook keeper it’s just out the way and never had a problem hooking or catching anything. Was also great for bush bashing skinny streams. The hook keeper didn’t get caught up around trees and all, but the eyelets somehow hook everything

[@lachiemackie6371]

Awesome video mate, personally I think the high end reel price starts at around $400-$450. And I really like the clips on rods to hold your lures instead of hooking lures onto the reel or eyes on the rod.

[@bricemorgan7164]

Nice review byron! I actually like the way u mention at the end of every episode you make a comment to stay safe. People don't notice it but it's most important. I think $449 is that starting point for high end reels. The sustain would be a nice upgrade from my stradic's. As for keepers I havnt used them but definitely might look into purchasing some. 👍

[@grantthompson4180]

For me I'd say about $400 is when I'm starting to expect high end performance. I love my Stella, but in terms of value I'd seriously consider swapping it for two Sustains fully loaded with good braid and a few packets of plastics..!! As far as hook keepers go, definitely yes for me. I don't want to pay for quality guides on a rod and then deliberately put them in harm's way.

[@barryelley878]

Great product and an honest review. This real would look unreal on my rod. Keep your reviews coming.

[@ByronTeaHill]

Will do

[@charlies_fishing8046]

Love your videos mate keep up the reviews .personally I would think around the 300 to 400 range is starting to be a high and real and starts to come with higher and better quality internals , and nicer to fish with for hours and hours . Yes I would love if all manufacturers would put hook keepers on their rods from high end to lower end

[@christiansethi938]

For me personally, I'd say, with my very limited budget that the $300 price point is where you start to see the previous model's top-tier tech start to trickle down into much more affordable reels. Especially with the Daiwa reels, but for me anything Daiwa BG and up is "high end" to me. I could never see myself being able to afford high-end reels, even though I'd love nothing more than to fish with high-end stuff. My most expensive setup costs less than this sustain does but I still get onto quite a few fish. I also love the idea that Daiwa came out with on the Infest (I believe) rods, where the hook keeper is below the reel seat and also having the hook keeper on the spool tensioner. Epic placements if you ask me, I have had line catch on my Daiwa Revros's line keeper several times and it's always a pain, having it there but out of the way is the way to go 👌 epic video, very informative as always 🤙😎

[@rorygibbo6206]

i reckon if your spending $400 on a reel it should be starting the get into the top end categories.. even though there are reels double or even triple the price i feel like if your spending that much money on a single reel it shouldn't have any play and should be smooth with high quality components. dont expect it to have any crazy technology or made out of some rare metal you can only find in the deepest caves of Scandinavia. it just needs to be high quality because $400 is starting to get pretty expensive for most people... and yeah i hate it when rods don't come with hook keepers on them especially more expensive rods. because then you have to buy a $15 piece of plastic that looks reeking and falls apart... keep up the vids byron, this was a good one

[@dimitriosroutsis601]

Thanks for the review Byron. Great as always. I guess a price over 300 would be a good starting point for the high end reel. However, it depends on the product itself. Having a hook keeper can be helpful. My rods do not have a hook keeper which makes it a bit uncomfortable.

[@ByronTeaHill]

Awesome

[@megpemberton3091]

Great review Byron. Starting price for a high-end reel begins at around $500. Hook keepers are a must

[@anthonycox1870]

For me a high end reel starts at around $400. a price out of my range, not to worried about a hook keeper, I usually hook it to the spool cap,, Great video champion,

[@kylenephillips365]

Thanks Byron for yet another fantastic and honest review. I have last years T-curve but the new one looks great. In terms of price that I would consider to start at high end, I would think approximately $450-500 as a starting point. In terms of a hook keeper, I’d love all my rods to have one included. Definitely a good thing! I’m obsessed with topwater fishing at the moment so I’m being more conscious of where I’m attaching my lure to the rod. In my older Ian miller rod it has a keeper which I find really useful but my T-curve doesn’t have one so I have to be more careful with the guides.

[@Andz_88]

Great review Byron, interesting to see that sustain FJ is heavier compared to vanford but it achieves the better balance. Probably as you mentioned there in the vid, that extra bit of weight “fixes” the centre of gravity. I’ve got my vanford as my current go to reel, keen to see how much the difference would be against vanford. For the give away stuffs: In my opinion, the entry point of high end reels should be priced between $350-400 (to be comparable to Japanese market, e.g: Daiwa Luvias is just under AUD400 in Japanese market). And for the hook keeper, I really like for the rods that have the adjustable hook keeper as you have in your vid. Some rods came with oddly positioned hook keeper that instead of being useful, it becomes annoying.

[@ByronTeaHill]

Thats a good consideration Andre, appreciate you sharing your thinking bud

[@scottbaker3816]

I have the Fuji Hook Keepers on all of my rods. They are are must for saving guides. Rod manufacturers should definitely consider them as standard. Entry level for high end reels, IMHO, starts at ~$400. The Stradic/Vanford have always been known as the Hilux of the Shimano world, whilst the Sustain and above have been the more luxury models. Shimano all the way though!!

[@johnklansek8898]

Great review Byron as always great insight into the modifications and development of the spinning reel. In terms of the entry point for high end reels I believe it's around the $350-$400 mark depending if sales are happening and hook keepers are a must on rods to secure hooks and lures safely and securely cheers

[@ByronTeaHill]

Thanks for getting involved legend. entered

[@leonleong699]

Great video, I've been looking at the Shimano T-Curve rods because I personally like the slightly longer butt end. For me, apart from a few diamonds in the rough, I consider $400-$450 to be the starting point for high end gear as that's where I've seen the biggest difference in build and performance. I also love having hook keepers on my rod and I wish all of them had one.

[@ByronTeaHill]

Thanks Leon! Appreciate you sharing your thoguhts buddy.

[@joshuagalbraith]

I recently got the nasci 1000 as a 2nd bream/bass rig and it’s been great, I have however just been touching up on the next level with geting a curado dc. This is the most I’ve spent of a reel to date personally I think once you hit the $500 mark you hit the higher end of the market but the “high end I recon kicks off at $700. As far as having hook keepers I hate not having one and I’ve not been a fan of the oring type ones. I have organised to her keepers added to all my rods from a local rod builder. One of these would make a epic addition to my growing baby shimano lineup

[@cameronester]

Great commentary on the newShimano gear. Firstly I think $450-600,would be a gate way to top end,and lastly,most definitely a lure keeper on the rod above the hand. Keep up the great vids.

[@aussbasstony9763]

My opinion would be a $300 Spin reel is the entry to high end. The market of $300 and under are very good work horse reels and reliable. Anything above this would be the beginning of a high end with many every day punter let’s be mindful of the average angler and there is many of them. Hook holder most definitely about 6 inches above reel seat is my preferred spot. Another great review👍

[@SWFisho]

Loving these Shimano reviews 🔥 I honestly thought $300 was the benchmark for high end fishing seems like a fair amount of money also Shimano hardly use hook keepers on their rods but it is an upgrade long over due for lure series rods

[@ByronTeaHill]

Hey legend. Thanks for sharing. its all good, my opinion is the $300 is average range. but I'm a little weird

[@volleyballnation3135]

I think a high-end reel starts at around $200. I absolutely love when manufacturers include a hook reaper on rods. I've always wanted a shimano as a young fisherman. Thanks for the chance to win!

[@adamsagun]

Nice review mate. I tend to buy daiwa of late but looking for a possible change up, saying that looking at the daiwa reels I have I think around $350-400 is about where the higher end gear starts. As for the hook keeper I think it's a must have, it's such a handy simple addition for a rod manufacturer to put on that makes life so much easier. I've lost countless of those little plastic and rub add on ones along the way. Since you mentioned in another video I've started using the top of the drag knob also.

[@Quaintdog227]

Hey Byron, definitely think the high end range starts at that $400-$450 range. And i love the hook holders on my rods. Love the Video!!

[@dannymikhail2186]

I used to think your $200-300 reels such as stradic, vanford or td black reel was your high end entry level. Would definitely say $500 is more so around the entry level high end now with reels such as Luvias, Revelry, Sustain ect Love a hook holder!! Nothing stresses me more then trebles on guides!

[@juliogomez3961]

I’ve always viewed a “high end” reel to start from the $450-$500 range and YES all rods should have a hook keeper… absolutely does my head in when a rod doesn’t have them.

[@wcoutts4034]

For me still sitting at the 100-150 dollar range in reels at the moment I believe the high end range starts at $300. I also do appreciate when rods come with the little hook keepers but if they don’t have one I’m happy to find a spot to put hook my hook elsewhere

[@JyTKD]

Awesome vid Byron! I think the high end would start at around that 450 to 500 dollar mark. BIG yes to hook keepers. Convenient and doesn't ruin your guides ✌

[@martinfpss]

Another brilliant video Byron and one that really got me thinking. I think there are two answers to where high-end reels start price-wise. The first is our own personal experience, I remember more than 20 years ago using my paper run money to buy a nice little Penn for $49 and I thought it was elite lol A few reels later and I had a Stradic Ci4 1000, and suddenly that was the best thing since sliced bread. The point being, I think our own personal point of reference plays a huge role. A VZ Commodore is an amazing car if you've only ever owned an old Bluebird lol But what is the real starting point, what do you need to pay to get into true high-end gear, that ticks the sort of boxes an AMG GT or Porsche GT3 does. I'm going to say it's double what most feel, closer to the best part of $800rrp. As for hook keepers, I prefer manufacturers leave them off so that I can fit my own exactly where I like it. Too many high quality rods come with keepers that are of poor quality and placed as an afterthought. Cheers again Byron, easily my favourite KZbin channel. Appreciate all the effort you go to and your generosity with both knowledge and prizes!

[@chrissenior2919]

Great give away Byron, I love a hook keeper built into the rod and I actually like them below the reel and I think $400 is the mark for high end. But I think there is reels on the market that don’t really preform at a high end in that price range and others are phenomenal!

[@nathancampbell8878]

Another great review. Over the last few years I’ve been upgrading my reels from low range to mid and the difference has been amazing. I feel the high range starts around $375-400 range. As for the hook keeper. I can take it or leave it but do tend to notice when a rod doesn’t have them.

[@eadynm8804]

I think that majority of the time once the price point is over that $350 to $400 it enters that higher end and that different step in feel and quality. And yes definitely hook keepers on rod is a plus above the fore grip is where I prefer as long as it's out of the way. Great video Byron as usual 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽

[@jasonnewson3523]

Love hook keepers - should be standard. $450 for starter high end reel imo. Thanks for another great review and happy straya day!

[@Adam_latham]

Personally I think that the high end of fishing reels start around $350 reels like the td black which is around $200 and the shimano equivalent would be the vanford. My opinion on the lure keeper is that I can’t have a rod without one as I use to put the lure on the guide until I saw your videos and now a lure keeper is a must

[@aaronblake8050]

Hi Bryon, thanks for the review. I have had Sustains in the past and loved them, I believe that $375 to $400 is the entry level for a high end reel and is a reasonable price to pay. As for hook keeper’s, it really is a personal choice. I quite like the ezi-keepers and use them on my all my rods. It’s not really something I worry about when choosing a rod. Keep up the great work! Cheers

[@ByronTeaHill]

Thanks for sharing and my pleasure Aaron!!!!

[@peterchristensen8619]

Awesome vid, mate. $400 is a good start point for high-end reels. I also think every rod should have a hook clip of some sort above the reel. Looking forward to the next one 👍

[@gregbygraves5403]

Great vid. For me fishing mainly estuary $300 is where I consider high end starting. That's where I stop letting the kids and friends play with them. As for hook keepers, I love them and tend to look for them when purchasing a new rod as I hate hooking onto a guide or into a handle.

[@rexb3415]

Hey byron, I think high end entry reels would be around $400-$450. I think all rods should come with a hook keeper, I have a t-curve (not premium) and it hasn't got one,I use a hook keeper similar to the one you have but the line gets hooked on it sometimes,very annoying. Also the t-curve is the first rod I've owned with a cork grip and I love it. Cheers mate.

[@erikanderson9407]

Hey Byron. Rad vid! I reckon high end for reels starts at about $300. As for the hook keepers, I'm all for them. It annoys me when a rod doesn't have one.

[@domamato663]

The high end price entry point I reckon starts at $350-$400 and if you are spending that kind of coin then the rod/reel should be coming with a hook keeper especially when you can find them on line for as little as $3.50. Keep up the good work Byron another great review 🤙

[@ByronTeaHill]

Cheers legend

[@braydensfishin]

Great video mate, I’d say around 250-300 bucks is a high end reel and I love the hook keepers so I don’t have to put my hook/lure on my guides. Keep up the awesome work mate 🤙🏼🇦🇺 straya day!!

[@ByronTeaHill]

Happy Australia Day Brayden! thanks mate

[@nathanwaters129]

Hi Byron, thanks for another informative video. When looking at the level of a reel if it to be a mid or higher end I personally view what is available on the market and compare what advantages you receive and importantly how they feel rather than price. In previous models of the sustain I would have ranked it in the higher end of mid range, however the improvements of the latest model may give it credit to be classified as a high end reel. When making a purchase on a reel in the $550-600 range you would expect to receive a reel in the high end range. I have found some companies make rod clips better than others where the design has sometimes caused the line to catch on them occasionally. Thanks again for your videos.

[@ByronTeaHill]

My pleasure Nathan! thanks very much for commenting dude

[@Avv45]

For me I think high end starts around the $500+ mark as the Stella’s and exists are around the $1000 mark so half way there generally gets you a reel that has a lot of the premium features. As for the like keepers I think all rods should have them, but ones you can move around like what you put on the t curve premium. As I’ve found sometimes factory Hooke keepers can be either a little high or low depending on what rig/style/or leader I’m using so having one I can move around to suit is actually a big plus 👍🏻 and cheers for the great content!

[@ByronTeaHill]

my pleasure!!! thanks very much for sharing your thoughts here mate

[@nadclay09]

Awesome review IMO $350-$400 starting and above for me is starting to get to high end reels as I’ve used the sedonas as a starter reel to get back into fishing After awhile I went and bought a daiwa revelry reel and was blown away at how good a reel it is compared to the cheaper reels I’m using and at $500 I’m like yea that’s the price range I’m happy to spend my cash at and for what type of fish I’m aiming at. And now that I’m getting more into fishing I’m exploring more rod and reel ranges to see how they suit and feel for mee Oh hook keepers for sure the rods out there need them imo Keep up the great work loving your vids👍👍👊👊👊

[@brentoncallaby9359]

As the average fisherman and doing what I do, I've never spent the money on a high end reel. Honestly I don't see the need too as an average joe. In saying that I also don't buy cheap stuff, good quality around that $200 to $300 mark is what I fish with. The stradic range from shimano is perfect balance of affordability and performance. However for high end I cannot comment cos I have never fished with those products (guessing $500 and up). Hook keepers on rods are a good thing if positioned correctly, I have a diawa td black supercasta rod (excellect rod) however where the hook keeper is positioned on the rod it will occasionally get snagged on when casting due to poor design and positioning as the line can actually go up into it. Great content on your channel 👏 👍

[@ByronTeaHill]

there is definitely good quality gear in that price range dude. thanks for sharing your thoughts mate and I'm glad you enjoyed the video

[@joshlittle9142]

Great to see more shimano gear on the channel now good vid like always

[@mick70b]

Yes I like a rod with a hook clip, I think they should be on all rods. I think the high end entry point for a reel is around the $350 mark. The sustain and t-curve look like an awesome combination 😎🤙🎣

[@collinbryant3294]

Great review. I was brought up using kmart rods and reels. So my starting to buy higher end/quality gear started at around $100 and now slowly build up to much better quality now. I do like the hook keepers. Much prefer to have gear setup ready to go. Hate using the guides as hook keeps when there is nowhere else.

[@joshsfishing4208]

Great video Byron, I’d love to fish from that boat. I think once you start paying around $300+ I’d like to see quality in that reel, like most things you get what you pay for. And yeah I like a hook holder but it won’t stop me from buying a rod just because it doesn’t have one.

[@giannizaniol9779]

Good review BTH! I reckon high end reels should start from $400 on wards for shizzle, plenty of quality reels fall under that mark! And heck yeah all rods should came out with hook keeper 🤙🏼

[@aidanlau795]

If it bothers you. You can fill in the hole in your Cork handle with baking soda and super glue. Or araldite or some epoxy. Then file it to clean it up.

[@ByronTeaHill]

Great tip dude, but nah it doesnt bother me. gives it cred,!!!! :P

[@cjbish60]

Hi Bryon, Thanks again. I think the price point for a high end reel would start at around $400. Hook keepers on rods from the factories - yes please.