Smernsky, I'm with you on this one. Whether you wind the leader around the reel up to a guide, or not....having the hook keeper is a handy thing. Sometimes on the same rod I am using a short leader and the hook keeper is very handy at times. I have read many many people say they don't put one on their rods. It is really not that big a deal, just a little piece of wire and I find it quite handy at times. I even have a book that tells you NOT to wind the line around the reel and hook into a guide as the hook can damage the guide. Personal choice I think, but I put them on my rods.

Gem