Kistler Custom Rods' Slew of Offerings for 2023

Introduction: The last time we saw Kistler Rods at ICAST, they introduced their Feel and Reel S2 KLX rods to the world. This year, they're hitting the convention floor with a slew of new introductions from a new lightweight, rod and reel combo to a new rod designed for the youth made of premium graphite. Let's take a look.

The last time we saw Kistler Rods at ICAST, Trey introduced their Feel and Reel S2 KLX rods to the world

Grasshopper: Kistler is introducing what they believe to be one of the first if not the first series of fishing rods for children made from premium graphite. Their new Grasshopper series consists of three models, all four feet, six inches (4'-6") in length and built with Fuji reel seats, AMTAK Vortex Stainless Steel Guides, and a full rear grip made of cork. The core of the rod is Kistler's own 98% graphite blank built with 45 degree construction for strength and durability. Judging from the specifications, these look to be an intereting option for that burgeoning enthusiast in the family. Retail on each rod in this series will be $149.

The Grasshopper series features 3 models built on a premium graphite blank for that burgeoning young enthusiast angler in the family

Chromium: Continuing their journey along the periodic table, but delving into solids, Kistler announces this year, their new Chromium family of product consisting of both rods and reels. Taking what they've learned from their Series 1 and 2 casting reels, the manufacturer ups their game with their Chromium reels by delivering an aluminum framed reel weighing just five point eight ounces (5.8oz) in the 100 size and six point one (6.1oz) in the 200 size. What's more, the 100 size Chromium reel comes with a shallow depth spool opening up possibilities for BFS applications. Retail on the new Chromium reels is projected at $299 and it appears they will only be available in right hand retrieve for now.

Kistler elevates their reel game with the 5.8oz, aluminum framed Chromium

To match the Chromium reels are the new Chromium Scope rods built on KC8+ blanks with carbon fiber handles

Complimenting the new, higher end, light weight reels, are the new Chromium Scope series fishing rods. Each of the thirteen (13) models in this series is built from the manufacturer's KC8+ graphite blank with split carbon grips and Kigan stainless steel guides with coalite ring inserts. Average weight of the rods in this seres is reportedly just three ounces (3oz)! There are plans for ten (10) casting and three (3) spinning models all but two of which are tailored for specific techniques. Kistler plans to offer them at the family price of $350 per rod.

Kistler KC9 Blanks: The announcement by this manufacturer that has me most excited is their decision to offer their top end blank for sale to custom rod builders and consumers in general. Given the great number of built rod options that are available today, the number of available, quality blanks is far out of proportion. Kistler enters the fray with their KC9 blank - the same blank that has fueled their top end Helium and ZBone series of rods for the last couple of years, and the blank behind the HE701ML we reviewed during the Spring of 2021. There will be six (6) blanks in total all with fast tapers but varying in power from medium lite through extra heavy. Retail on the blanks is $199.

The announcement by this manufacturer that has me most excited is their decision to offer their top end blank for sale to custom rod builders and consumers in general