I'm an Idiot. I've Been Using the Kistler Hook Hanger

[Brad]

totally wrong. Geeeeeez, I watched the Kistler Video and 'Gags' talked about how he doesn't destroy his soft plastics by using the hanger. I've always put the hook point through the hanger, but you actually just keep the bait rigged and just use the round bend of the hook.
I have had hangers on previous rods, but they were not designed this way. Wow, now I know why the Kistler hanger is far superior.

[Kistler1]

You are not the only one. I did it when I first got my Kistler Rod also. I felt stupid when I saw how it worked.

[Brad]

Thanks, Clifford. I feel better. There are probably more out there. C'mon y'all, step forward and admit it! Join our self-help group, Hangers Anonymous.

[Brad]

Thanks, Clifford. I feel better. There are probably more out there. C'mon y'all, step forward and admit it! Join our self-help group, Hangers Anonymous.

[kistler50]

I too learned how great the Kistler Hook keeper was over the last weekend. It was so nice not having to un-do my plastic bait each time I put the rod down to move spots etc... I love how you just use the bend of the hook.

Great job Kistler!!

[Blister72]

I got my first Kistler Magnesium Chatterbait rod (AWESOME!) yesterday, and I know the hook hanger is a big selling point, or at least heavily hyped, but I have always just secured my lures and hooks on the second or third guide from the reel seat.

This keeps them out of my daughter's reach on the rod rack, and if I did use the hanger, I would most likely grab the reel, and get a hand full of trebles or 3/0, 4/0 gamakatsu hook...OUCH!

I don't have the drag cranked down, and put very little, if any, stress on the guides/inserts with this technique. Just my personal habits, I guess. I do see how this could cause premature guide failure though.

Should I change my ways???

[loujoe]