Kylebooker 2 Pack Old Salty Planer vs. Orvis & Redington: A Deep Dive into Value and Performance
As an avid angler, choosing the right trolling planer can make a significant difference in your fishing success. The Kylebooker 2 Pack Old Salty Planer has gained attention among budget-conscious fishermen, but how does it compare to premium brands like Orvis and Redington? In this review, we’ll analyze performance, durability, and overall value to determine whether the Kylebooker planer is a worthy investment.
Design & Build Quality
Kylebooker Old Salty Planer
The Kylebooker 2 Pack Old Salty Planer is designed for deep-dive trolling, offering adjustable diving depths based on line tension. Made from durable ABS plastic, it’s lightweight yet sturdy enough to withstand rough conditions. The two-pack option provides excellent value, allowing anglers to experiment with different setups.
Orvis & Redington Planers
Orvis and Redington are well-known for their high-end fishing gear, and their trolling planers reflect that reputation. Both brands use reinforced materials, often with corrosion-resistant hardware for saltwater use. However, their single-unit pricing is significantly higher—sometimes 2-3 times the cost of the Kylebooker pack.
Verdict: While Orvis and Redington offer slightly better materials, the Kylebooker’s two-pack advantage makes it a strong contender for anglers who need multiple planers without breaking the bank.
Performance & Functionality
Diving Depth & Stability
The Kylebooker Old Salty Planer performs well in both freshwater and saltwater, maintaining a steady dive depth when properly adjusted. Some users report minor wobbling at high speeds, but this is common among mid-range planers.
Orvis and Redington models, on the other hand, are engineered for precision stability, with smoother tracking and less drag. However, unless you’re trolling at extreme speeds, the difference may not justify the price gap for casual or intermediate anglers.
Ease of Use
All three brands feature adjustable tension settings, but the Kylebooker’s simplicity makes it more beginner-friendly. Orvis and Redington models sometimes include advanced tuning options, which can be overkill for standard trolling.
Verdict: If you prioritize affordability and simplicity, the Kylebooker is sufficient. If you demand elite performance, Orvis or Redington may be worth the extra cost.
Price & Value Comparison
– Kylebooker 2 Pack Old Salty Planer: ~$25-$35 (2 units)
– Orvis/Redington Single Planer: ~$40-$60 per unit
For the price of one Orvis or Redington planer, you can get two Kylebooker units. This makes the Kylebooker an unbeatable deal for anglers who need backups or multiple setups.
Final Verdict: Is the Kylebooker Worth It?
If you’re a budget-conscious angler or someone who frequently loses gear to snags, the Kylebooker 2 Pack Old Salty Planer is an excellent choice. While it may not match the refined engineering of Orvis or Redington, its cost-effectiveness and solid performance make it a smart buy.
However, if you’re a serious tournament angler or frequently fish in extreme conditions, investing in a premium Orvis or Redington planer might be justified.
Bottom Line:
✅ Best Budget Option: Kylebooker 2 Pack
✅ Best Premium Option: Orvis/Redington (if budget allows)
For most recreational fishermen, the Kylebooker provides the best balance of performance and affordability, making it a highly recommended choice.
Would you like additional recommendations on trolling setups? Let me know—I’d be happy to help! 🎣