Paying Extra For Quality Equipment 2024
Angry John reply :
I may be a little spendy for my wife but i feel it worth the extra money to buy quality stuff. One of the products that i got recently that i feel is at the mark for high quality equipment is a bass maffia 3700 box. I have dropped and broken so many boxes that getting a few of these has actually saved me some money. I wish they came out with a vented model as i still keep buying the plano vented 3700 boxes. I must have 5 of them laying around here with a shattered corner from drops. I would pay extra if plano made a quality hydroflow box and not bat an eye. What equipment have you found to be high value even if it costs more???
BassinLou reply :
Rods and reels.... lol..... 
..... no seriously.... rods and reels.
Darren. reply :
I'm with Lou, rods n' reels.
More reels than rods, but...well there ya go.
ABW reply :
Pretty much everything.
But I do have some cheap Academy crankbaits made in China that take some beatings and still hold up
wvbassslayer81 reply :
On 12/1/2014 at 8:08 AM, asianboywonder said:Pretty much everything
x2
BasshunterJGH reply :
Rods and reels are definitely the most important. Strike king 5xds and 6xds are my favorite deep divers. I actually prefer them over the spros and lucky crafts I've used. Same goes for roboworms. Cheap, and work better for me than more expensive worms like yamamotos.
BassnChris reply :
I like to spend a little more for quality when I can.......but on occasion I have to cheap out.
Angry John reply :
I was looking for other items that might not be in the forefront like rods and reels. I get the best weapons for the fight that i can but there are things to improve the experience that are not always know. Right now i have my eyes on a net that looks super nice. I had been holding out to find just the right one and now i think i have found it.
http://fishpondusa.com/product/detail/nomad-mid-length-net/227
Darren. reply :
On 12/1/2014 at 8:57 AM, Angry John said:I was looking for other items that might not be in the forefront like rods and reels. I get the best weapons for the fight that i can but there are things to improve the experience that are not always know. Right now i have my eyes on a net that looks super nice. I had been holding out to find just the right one and now i think i have found it.
http://fishpondusa.com/product/detail/nomad-mid-length-net/227
Posted a link to their nets in another thread. They're
definitely Rolls Royce of nets. Light, floating, strong,
at the cost of 2 arms, 1 leg, and your left eyeball, LOL.
papajoe222 reply :
My inflatable PFD's. They're light, not bulky or hot in the summer and they automatically inflate.
Angry John reply :
On 12/1/2014 at 8:59 AM, DarrenM said:Posted a link to their nets in another thread. They're
definitely Rolls Royce of nets. Light, floating, strong,
at the cost of 2 arms, 1 leg, and your left eyeball, LOL.
http://www.brodin.com/stealth-float-tube.html
This is the other net i have been considering!
tomustang reply :
Dropping boxes sounds like a issue you should look into.
Angry John reply :
I have kids that like to help. The 3 year old is terror on a lot of stuff. I dont let her handle my rods or reels.
Jolly Green reply :
On 12/1/2014 at 7:14 AM, Angry John said:I wish they came out with a vented model
Get a cheap soldering iron and ventilate them however you want.
powerduster reply :
I love a nice looking reel that's made of quality. I would much rather spend my money on that then a rod of similar price and quality. I just enjoy holding it in my hands much more and looking at it.
*Hootie reply :
$160 for a net? It'll be a cold day in...well, you know...lol.
Hootie
Alonerankin2 reply :
If the net says loomis or shimano, by George I'm getting it... I can always catch butterfly's ..
Maxximus Redneckus reply :
Lol@160 for a net ..sorry but heres your sign. It musta said UU g loomis or shimano on it maybe nike even
rippin-lips reply :
I'm bitten by the Daiwa bug. Being able to upgrade them is terrible for my wallet.
Darren. reply :
On 12/1/2014 at 10:26 AM, rippin-lips said:I'm bitten by the Daiwa bug. Being able to upgrade them is terrible for my wallet.
Stay away from Japanese customizing sites!!
Preserve your sanity and your retirement fund!
rippin-lips reply :
On 12/1/2014 at 10:48 AM, DarrenM said:Stay away from Japanese customizing sites!!
Preserve your sanity and your retirement fund!
Great advice but you are late. Hedgehog and tackle trap get me every time.
Darren. reply :
On 12/1/2014 at 10:55 AM, rippin-lips said:Great advice but you are late. Hedgehog and tackle trap get me every time.
Oh man, I'm sooooo sorrry... no, not really. You probably
have amazing reels in hand.
I've been drooling over the customizations at Hedgehog.
My Chronarch 50e reels are beyond my reach after I finish
customizing them at Hedgehog. Glad I don't have the
money to follow thru.
Curse the one who first turned me on to that site!!! GAAAAH!!
The Next KVD reply :
I'd have to say pretty much everything is you get what you pay for. This is especially true when buying fluorocarbon fishing line. I've had too many bad experiences with cheap fluoro that retail less than $20/spool.
rippin-lips reply :
I only have one with hedgehog parts but all the rest get factory upgrades. Different spools,more bearings,handles,ect. You know how it goes. I don't have a car hobby anymore so I have to spend it on something. Not being married helps a lot too.
adam lancia reply :
I like to let others pay full retail for high end stuff, use it for a little while and then sell it to me for what I can afford to spend
BassThumbAddict reply :
Rods and reels on a big scale. Small scale bait wise I feel the GYCB senko preforms so much better but it is significantly more.
NorcalBassin reply :
Also agree with the rods and reels but with flyfishing it's more so just the rod (comparatively, by no means are the reels cheap!)
War Eagle 44 reply :
As with everyone else I too like to have quality reels and rods but I don't spend as much as I used to on either. Lately it's been "upgrading" the reels I already have that's been more interesting to me than buying new ones.
I never mind spending a little extra on hooks or other terminal tackle. I know this doesn't really seem like a big expense, and for the most part it really isn't, but I always like to change the stock hardware that comes on most hard baits. I'm very high on Owner split rings and trebles but I also use Mustad and Gamakatsu. Spro power split rings are nice as well. I've never tried any rings from Mustad. I started this practice a few years ago when I noticed a dramatic improvement in my bite to land ratio after upgrading the stock trebles on a KVD 1.5 to the KVD Mustad trebles.
Since that time I've had a couple bad experiences with stock hardware on a few baits so now I always upgrade every new hard bait.
This goes for "worm/plastic" hooks as well, I use an assortment from both Owner and Gamakatsu so that I have what I consider to be the best hook for a given lure or technique.
Grantman83 reply :
High end customizing of reels is where I lose it. Hell, I have two on display that won't see the water.
Hawgtech handles, carbon handles, custom paint jobs, pixzilla 'ing equals way too much money spent lol
lordpaxin reply :
I always get several bargain items
At first
Then once I've gotten comfortable I'll upgrade
For instance I've thrown Walmart lipless cranks all summer. And once I stopped losing and snagging them I ordered some megabass vibration x
Hogsticker reply :
I've spent my money on worse things. Believe that!
Bluebasser86 reply :
I like to buy nice things, but I like finding values too. If I can buy a nice piece of equipment for less that I feel performs on a level with more expensive gear, I'm all for it. Even on higher priced stuff I have a cutoff of around $200. I just feel like the difference is very minor in rods and reels once you get above that ceiling in everything except the price.
Tywithay reply :
I've found good line has made my time more enjoyable. Cheaper stuff works just fine, but I've had less hassle with good line. I like a nice reel too.
Hogsticker reply :
I agree, good line is critical. It's not pretty and flashy like a rod, reel, or hard bait, but I feel it's the most important piece of the puzzle. I know folks that will dish out good money on a rod, but expensive line.... Forget about it
Master Bait'r reply :
On 12/1/2014 at 8:05 AM, DarrenM said:I'm with Lou, rods n' reels.
More reels than rods, but...well there ya go.
See, I feel the opposite. You can super tune a lazer speed spool to cast over the moon with some Abecs and light oil/flushing/dialing but if you buy the wrong rod, there's nothing you can do but get another one.
Choporoz reply :
I've slowly come around to spending more on line, hooks and plastics. Line was easier transition -- break offs and slinkies can be tolerated only so long. Hooks were harder for me...and maybe its more psychological, but I'm thinking better hooks really is making a difference. As to plastics, again, maybe psychological, but I have so much more confidence with a Rage or Keitech or Senko than with any BPS, Yum, Zoom, etc. I'm particularly cheap, so I've followed pretty much the same curve with every hobby I've had....start out with 'cheap is more than good enough for me'....and eventually get to 'only the best is really good enough for me'....lol
Darren. reply :
On 12/1/2014 at 9:52 PM, Master Bait said:See, I feel the opposite. You can super tune a lazer speed spool to cast over the moon with some Abecs and light oil/flushing/dialing but if you buy the wrong rod, there's nothing you can do but get another one.
That's cool, and entirely valid.
Senko lover reply :
I'm on a budget, so I typically try to get quality stuff (on sale!).
I recently bought a baitcasting combo; was going to get a Black Maxx combo, but decided to get something a lot more pricey. Glad I did.
War Eagle 44 reply :
On 12/2/2014 at 12:06 AM, Choporoz said:I've slowly come around to spending more on line, hooks and plastics. Line was easier transition -- break offs and slinkies can be tolerated only so long. Hooks were harder for me...and maybe its more psychological, but I'm thinking better hooks really is making a difference. As to plastics, again, maybe psychological, but I have so much more confidence with a Rage or Keitech or Senko than with any BPS, Yum, Zoom, etc. I'm particularly cheap, so I've followed pretty much the same curve with every hobby I've had....start out with 'cheap is more than good enough for me'....and eventually get to 'only the best is really good enough for me'....lol
I don't think it's in your head, I'm 100% sure that quality hooks (trebles or otherwise) make a big difference in your fishing. One thing I will add here though is that I think you're really missing out by dismissing Zoom plastics. I'm not saying that they are the absolute best there is but I can tell you that quite a few of their baits are very very effective eg. baby brush hog, lizard, super fluke, etc. I know that angler confidence in a lure is super important to that lures effectiveness for them but I've just had so much luck with Zoom plastics that I just thought I'd say that you might want to give them another shot.
rippin-lips reply :
The zoom trick and finesse worm should be in everyone's soft plastic lineup. Along with flukes and brush hogs.
Choporoz reply :
On 12/2/2014 at 5:46 AM, War Eagle 44 said:I don't think it's in your head, I'm 100% sure that quality hooks (trebles or otherwise) make a big difference in your fishing. One thing I will add here though is that I think you're really missing out by dismissing Zoom plastics. I'm not saying that they are the absolute best there is but I can tell you that quite a few of their baits are very very effective eg. baby brush hog, lizard, super fluke, etc. I know that angler confidence in a lure is super important to that lures effectiveness for them but I've just had so much luck with Zoom plastics that I just thought I'd say that you might want to give them another shot.
Thanks. You (and RL) are right. I still carry some Zoom stuff; lizards, super flukes and trick worms, mostly. But, their usage rates are getting pushed down this year by sexier stuff.
War Eagle 44 reply :
On 12/2/2014 at 5:50 AM, rippin-lips said:The zoom trick and finesse worm should be in everyone's soft plastic lineup. Along with flukes and brush hogs.
I can't believe I forgot the Trick worm, wow.
On 12/2/2014 at 5:55 AM, Choporoz said:Thanks. You (and RL) are right. I still carry some Zoom stuff; lizards, super flukes and trick worms, mostly. But, their usage rates are getting pushed down this year by sexier stuff.
It could be a case of Zoom plastics not being quite as effective in the waters you fish as much as anything else.
I just want to state that this is totally my opinion and I have absolutely no facts to back this up. I want to like Rage products (and do especially the toad and the menace and craws as jig trailers) but I can't get nearly the number of bites flipping a Rage craw as I can with a Paca craw, Zoom speed craw, baby brush hog, or D Bomb. Therefore I've decided that different baits work better on different bodies of water. I came to this conclusion after giving the Rage craw plenty of opportunities to produce for me. So I'm not sure if this would hold true of anyone fishing on my home lake or if it's totally just me. I'd like to think it'd hold true for anyone but as I said I have no facts to support this theory.
rippin-lips reply :
I think that statement holds a lot of truth. I always see people throw senkos/stick worms around my area. Most are leisure fisherman and don't get really into it like myself. Even the select few that I know who are addicted to fishing don't stray too far away from them. For me a Tx rig rage craw is my 110% confidence bait. There is never a time where I don't have one rigged up with a 3/16 weight. I decide to get into swimbaits before the season ended. I've gotten nothing but strange looks and jokes being cracked about them. People telling me those things won't work around here ect ect. Well I can't wait to put the hurting on some fish this spring with my mattlures hardgill.
JeziHogg reply :
Everything piece of fishing kit I own, why settle for less?
Patrick Morrow reply :
In same ways I have experienced that the higher-end gear is over hyped, which is kinda obvious in same cases.
Sam reply :
John, two theories regarding fishing equipment.
1. Purchase the highest quality you can afford.
2. Purchase the lowest quality that will handle how you fish.
I like the first theory as I want to use the best equipment I can afford.
My ex-fishing partner (got married and moved to Ohio) used junk. His philosophy was that when a rod or reel broke just throw it away and get another $20 reel and a $30 rod.
With this in mind, my friend could catch a bass in a bathtub half full of water with the "cheap" equipment. It was amazing to watch him fish with reel brands I had never hear of and see him rig his inexpensive rods knowing that he was going to catch something sooner or later.
So which philosophy do you subscribe?
roadwarrior reply :
A large portion of the fun for me is collecting gear. When it comes to rods & reels I expect to
keep them forever.
thehooligan reply :
Like any hobby, i want the best that i can afford. Im unfortunately on a pretty small budget so i find myself using the credit card more and more.
The td ito project has really set me back and ill most likely have to sell just so i can buy some christmas presents this year 
Anyway, once you step into the territory of high end gear theres no going back.... Its a vicious cycle 
adam lancia reply :
On 12/3/2014 at 8:42 PM, thehooligan said:Like any hobby, i want the best that i can afford. Im unfortunately on a pretty small budget so i find myself using the credit card more and more.
The td ito project has really set me back and ill most likely have to sell just so i can buy some christmas presents this year
Anyway, once you step into the territory of high end gear theres no going back.... Its a vicious cycle
That's exactly why my frugality outlasts my patience, it would kill me to save up for something then have to sell it, especially if I were to take a loss on it. Used is the way to go for me. When I have a monthly 4 figure disposable income, then I'll be buying high end stuff brand new. Until then, it's used for me :-D
rippin-lips reply :
You don't have to buy it brand new. Most of my high end stuff is used but in great condition. You can find deals if you look around.
Pete-K reply :
On 12/3/2014 at 8:34 PM, roadwarrior said:A large portion of the fun for me is collecting gear. When it comes to rods & reels I expect to
keep them forever.
That junk you call rods? Man give me a break, Moved one of your rods when we were fishing and almost passed out. Man the feel of that Rod and no weight. I almost thought kick the man overboard and keep his tackle. 
I used to have all the best rods and reels back in the late 1980's. I'm taking about then rods were $200. each and reels were around that. Now I fish with what ever and thought I was happy. Until that one touch with the Rod of all rods..
I can see a rod build coming soon.
Pete
Jon G reply :
I love quality gear. My philosophy is quality over quantity. Sure you can get by with $50 combos but they will not last as long as quality gear. There is a reason some gear is more expensive than other. It's because it last longer.
Angry John reply :
On 12/3/2014 at 5:41 PM, Sam said:John, two theories regarding fishing equipment.
1. Purchase the highest quality you can afford.
2. Purchase the lowest quality that will handle how you fish.
I like the first theory as I want to use the best equipment I can afford.
My ex-fishing partner (got married and moved to Ohio) used junk. His philosophy was that when a rod or reel broke just throw it away and get another $20 reel and a $30 rod.
With this in mind, my friend could catch a bass in a bathtub half full of water with the "cheap" equipment. It was amazing to watch him fish with reel brands I had never hear of and see him rig his inexpensive rods knowing that he was going to catch something sooner or later.
So which philosophy do you subscribe?
I like to find deals on the best stuff i can find. I own 2 steez reels right now and a few quality sticks. My favorite is my st croix legend, but i also have some dobyns dx rods. I would say i fit best in the second group, but finding my steez flexlight for half price got me really excited. I love high end gear but i have yet to go all out with megabass or evergreen. I would love an orange monoblock !!!!
GANGGREEN reply :
There's a point of diminishing returns for any product, fishing related or otherwise. That point is determined by two things, the financial ability of the buyer to pay a lot more for a small improvement in quality and the absolute value/quality of the product being offered. Technology has advanced us light years and good to great products should be less expensive to produce to a large degree, although all manufacturers have to deal with the reality of inflation and increasing costs of limited natural resources to some degree.
Personally, while I see the value of purchasing better/more expensive gear and while I happen to be at the stage of my life where I have some expendable income, I'd surely like to see the prices start to go the other way (in other words, come down in price). I suspect that I'm like many on this board who believe that once you get to the $100 level or so for a rod or a reel, that the quality continues to go up as the price increases but probably more slowly than it did from $30 to $100. I tend to purchase $80 spinning reels, $100 casting reels and $100 rods, though I have a few more expensive items. Same for everything else, a $50 net is more than enough, a $600 electronics unit does fine for me, etc..
I would also add that most of us almost never find ourselves in the situation where we truly need a new rod, reel, lure, etc. and because of that, I'm inclined to purchase only when I find a deal. I'm not sure when I last purchased a rod or reel at retail price. Since I don't NEED one, why not wait until I see a smashing deal somewhere and get that $150 rod or reel for $80 (which I just did times 4 on some Abu and Fenwick products)?
related Fishing Rods Reels Line Knots topic
most viewed Fishing Rods Reels Line Knots topic
© 2024 - fishing.qciss.net. All Rights Reserved.