2009 Helium LTA Important Question For Trey

[Ghost]

I've read on another site that someone bought 2 2009 LTA's & they are made in China???

Can you confirm this, if so why?

[Jewalston]

Negative! Whoever posted that on whatever site is wrong. Every LTA is made in house at the Kistler Factory in Magnolia Texas.

[Gone Phishin]

I was wondering about this as well. Also, there are two different Helium models being sold right now, both with the split-grip. Cabela's is selling the model seen on this site, with a darker shade of cork. TackleWarehouse is selling Helium rods with a much lighter colored cork, and a less expensive price at about $200. What gives?

[Seymour]

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Seems like this has generated quite the discussion over on tackle tour. I guess each to his own. I like the rods. They catch fish for me. Enough said.

[Gone Phishin]

I bought two 08' Heliums last year. I am very happy with their performance on the water.

I simply don't understand all of the changes, as well as the two different Helium models being sold right now. Both Heliums have the new split-grip, as I previously mentioned, but are two different rods at two different prices. I cannot find anything here on the Kistler site that explains the difference between the two, in components and price.

[trav]

I'd reallllly like to know about this as well. I am currently waiting on a Helium LTA from Tackle Warehouse to be delivered. On TW, it says the rod has the SiC guides, same reel seat.......even the burled cork = same components. TW always has great deals on stuff, so I ordered this rod figuring this was one of those deals. If the only difference is just a little bit of cosmetics, that's fine with me....they both look sharp. BUT......if there is a difference in quality, weighting, balance......then I'm not o.k. with it. I ordered the rod fully expecting the CURRENT 2009 Helium LTA model. Having said that.....this will be my first Kistler rod.....and I'm very exciting about fishing with it. I've heard nothing but great things about the Kistler brand.

[westbay]

I kind of figure that rod components change depending on suppliers availability a ship dates.
Helium LTA's are all made in Magnolia, Texas. The cork may vary as well as some other components from time to time, but all are the same high quality you expect from Kistler.
Some retailers may offer clearance pricing on some models in preparation for new year model inventories..

[Blister72]

[kjvoisin]

I own seven of the older model Helium LTA's with the straight handles with the black butt end cap. I personally don't care for the split grip handles and can't make myself switch to any of the newer model Kistler Rods. These older Kistler LTA's are GREAT and I have won lots of money over the years using them in tournaments. KISTLER is the only brand of fishing rod I will buy and use and would put them up against any Fenwick, St. Croix or G-Loomis for sensitivity and durability.

[kistlero]

Sorry guys for the late reply. I didn't see this one until now. I'll explain. The rods are assembled mostly here in Magnolia, TX.
We had to obtain two cork manufacturers to work for us because of increased demand so now there are two styles out there on the market today. Both perform the same and have the Fuji SIC guides as well as the same Fuji reel seat. "No more issuses with Baston reel seats like in the past!"
The sale you saw on TW was a special April deal and didn't reflect either style of LTA price difference.
We know you will love either style. Try one and you'll see what I'm talking about. Thanks,

[Jewalston]

I felt the same way about the solid handle until I was forced to go with the new split grip. Although I like both, I now prefer the split grip. It is lighter and far more balanced. Just be open minded to change and give the split grip a day on the water. You will like it.

[RickG]

I own 9 Kistler rods 2 with split grips. I love them all. I was a Loomis guy for many years until I spoke with a Kistler Pro who challenged me to try the Kistler brand. As previously mentioned, I love them. I think if you try the split grip you too will like it. I also wanted to plug the new 6'11" Argon Spinnerbait Rod. Bought it last week and this rod is super versatile. Spinnerbait, buzzbait, crankbait, traps, etc. Awesome!