Why on earth would anyone spend $400 on a bass rod? 2024

FattyWnnaCookie reply :

I have a couple of the Scott Martin signature tournament rods, priced around $120 dollars and I love them. They are rods designed by Scott himself, and they are the same ones he uses across the country during tournaments. He swears by them, and now so do I. I am planning on getting more to complete my arsenal for this year. However, I recently saw a video where someone affiliated with St. Croix gushed about the "Legend Xtreme", a rod priced at 400 dollars. The reviews for the rod, as you would expect, are great. My question is, how much better can this $400 dollar rod be compared to a $120 rod that a pro uses in tournaments everywhere? How can someone justify that much more money, surely the performance cant be worth that.

Darren. reply :

Probably because they can

Me? Not a chance -- unless I won a lottery

CroakHunter reply :

On 12/31/2017 at 8:39 AM, FattyWnnaCookie said:

My question is, how much better can this $400 dollar rod be compared to a $120 rod that a pro uses in tournaments everywhere?

It's about $280 better.

QUAKEnSHAKE reply :

A person might ask if he would use those rods if he didn't benefit financially or not sponsored by Okuma. I could see him pimping lightning rods if the pay was right.

flyfisher reply :

Go buy one and fish it and then say why or if it is worth it. Also remember to be skeptical of pros who endorse rods...there may be rods on their deck that look like the box store ones but it is only in badging.

Jelvas reply :

Why on earth would anyone spend $1000 on a Iphone?

See what i did there?

Different people have different tastes, and everyone values things in a different way. I do not fish for food, i fish cause it gives me pleasure, not only the act of catching the fish itself but all that it´s related to fishing... including the gear!

-Does a $100 rod/reel do pretty much the same thing and catches the same fish as a $400 one? Absolutely!

-Is it the same amount of fun? Nooooooooooo.....

Higher end gear is, above all other things, that... super fun to fish with!

tander reply :

I will say if you can afford it and want it, go for it. If you think it will make you a better fisherman then it probably will (more confidence). I personally would not pay over $200 for a rod and so far, $160 is the most I have paid but I have no problem with fisherman buying expensive gear if it makes them happy.

FattyWnnaCookie reply :

On 12/31/2017 at 9:20 AM, Jelvas said:

Why on earth would anyone spend $1000 on a Iphone?

See what i did there?

Different people have different tastes, and everyone values things in a different way. I do not fish for food, i fish cause it gives me pleasure, not only the act of catching the fish itself but all that it´s related to fishing... including the gear!

-Does a $100 rod/reel do pretty much the same thing and catches the same fish as a $400 one? Absolutely!

-Is it the same amount of fun? Nooooooooooo.....

Higher end gear is, above all other things, that... super fun to fish with!

Well thats kind of my question. What about the rod its self is fun? It can only change so much before it is just another rod with a higher price tag. I can gauge the difference in a phone because of its internals and capabilities that come with the bigger tag. However, with a bass rod, does the rod it self really continue to change with almost triple the price. I will almost certainly never get a chance to use one, so i can't really figure it out for myself.

Fried Lemons reply :

Expensive gear is not something you need to be a good angler. One thing I will say from experience however is that once you experience fishing with a high end product, you will not want to go back to gear that does just enough to get the job done.

Angry John reply :

On 12/31/2017 at 9:33 AM, FattyWnnaCookie said:

Well thats kind of my question. What about the rod its self is fun? It can only change so much before it is just another rod with a higher price tag. I can gauge the difference in a phone because of its internals and capabilities that come with the bigger tag. However, with a bass rod, does the rod it self really continue to change with almost triple the price. I will almost certainly never get a chance to use one, so i can't really figure it out for myself.

Step one is to realize that you do not need a 400 dollar rod. Step two is to never try one because the experience may completely change your mind. Stay ignorant and be happy... I dont fish megabass because i cant afford them. I have and fish st croix sc5 rods and i like them a lot. It did not drive me away from the other rods i own but they work well for what i have them for. All of your rods dont need to be high end and you can absolutely crankbait fish with an uglystick and do just as well as anyone else. What i enjoy is some of the finer flavors of life and a nice jig rod makes me happy. The features you compare in rods are total weight, guides, handles, blank material and appearance. Take a look at a high end rod and all of those things will be top end and it makes a difference.

Catt reply :

I have 3-4 friends who are ridiculously wealthy.

One is an avid angler that owns a Bass Cass Jaguar with a 400 Merc hanging off the back. He would not buy a $200 simply because it's $200, his has dozen Shimano G. Loomis Conquest MBR Casting Rod.

Extreme? Not for his budget, he fishes offshore in a Hatteras GT70 Convertible.

You think our rods are high!

As for me it's about personal preference!

For years I was G. Loomis fan until I tried a Shimano Crucial

Raul reply :

Why on earth would somebody spend 50K in a bass boat ? I do perfectly fine with my 12 ft aluminum tub powered by that massive 6.5 HP Johnson outboard, hell, I bet I have caught more 10+ lbers than most of the fellas in this board from it than they in their fancy bass boats.

Delaware Valley Tackle reply :

Why would anyone spend $60,000 for car, $70,000 for a boat, $25,000 for a motorcycle, $500,000 on a house.....?????

Because they can, and they get joy from doing so.

Buy within your means and enjoy the fruit of your labor regardless of whatever price point that may be at.

S Hovanec reply :

On 12/31/2017 at 9:33 AM, FattyWnnaCookie said:

However, with a bass rod, does the rod it self really continue to change with almost triple the price.

Actually it does. The higher end rods have better components. More R&D goes into the design. St Croix designs their own tapers and blanks. They just don't pick a blank that a manufacturer has and build a rod on it like most imports. The mandrels the blanks are rolled on aren't cheap. Higher quality resins, better cloth. USA made vs import. You said those rods are around $120. That would buy the set of guides on one of my spinning rods.

rippin-lips reply :

It’s called get in where you fit in. We all have different budgets and to some a $300 rod is crazy talk. No, you don’t need it to catch fish. I’ve been outfished by an old man using a St.Croix 1st gen rage spinning rod. However, I get a sense of enjoyment from using high end gear. A mart uses his line of enigma rods and has zero problem catching fish with them.

Turkey sandwich reply :

I mean, the component and craftsmanship elements are huge, but if you're on a budget, it's about practicality. I own $400+ rods and $100 rods, and fish both ends of the spectrum regularly.

For a crank bait rod, where sensitivity isn't the kind of concern it is for a drop shot rod, a jig rod, etc, you can do really well on any level with an inexpensive moderate graphite or glass rod. However, for presentations requiring greater sensitivity (generally your faster action sticks), high modulus graphite, expensive resins, guides, corks, and a preferred reel seat can make a big difference.

Another reason to spend money (especially with very thin, high modulus graphite and delicate guides) is long term or lifetime warranty. Now, more than ever, you get what you pay for with guides, too. If you fish braid, having harder rings can make a big difference in longevity, do less damage to your line, and make a big difference through your connection.

Ultimately, it's all preference and budget. Do I catch more fish with my Legend Elite jig rod than the older Rage it replaced? I have no idea, but I genuinely enjoy fishing it a lot more.

jbmaine reply :

Every $ we spend on fishing is spent to make the experience more pleasurable and satisfying to us. Out side of a stick, a piece of string, a hook, and a can of worms, everything we buy is an option, a luxury, to make it more fun. My wife and I are middle of the road. We have low to middle of the road gear because that's all we feel we can afford. It works well for us and we have fun.

That being said, if we ever won the lottery we would have the top end of everything. Would it make us better fishermen, who knows? But if we could afford it, Why not have it.

Jim

HookRz reply :

Because it would be silly to throw $50 Japanese baits on an $80 dollar rod?

Which leads us to another question....

Sam reply :

Fatty, because the bass know the value of your rods, reels, line and tackle and they will hit the more expensive stuff first.

OK, just kidding.

I have a friend who has old and cheap equipment. When a reel falters he throws it away and gets another $30 one to replace it.

He can out fish about 95% of the guys on this Forum.

The high end rods are supposed to have better transmission characteristics and are lighter so you can use them all day and not get fatigued.

I use my high end rods for tournaments. Otherwise, the less expensive rods and reels are fine for prefishing and fun fishing.

68camaro reply :

I have one custom made rod over $400, I use it for blade baits. It's made by guy who does it part time and has big following with 4 plus month wait. With a custom you get exactly what you want - everything from size, handle type & length, to color to action and everything in-between. For example, mine was built on 7'6" Point Blank blank cut down to 7'3", it's made for exactly what I wanted it to do.

I have mostly Dobyns, Megabass and another semi-custom rod but neither is in class like this. Its ability to throw bombs and insane sensitivity is unparalleled.

Now with that said did it make me a better fisherman, don't know, but it really increased confidence and I now use and have much more success with bladed baits than before i had it. It's just so sweet and so much fun to fish, it kinda has feel like my Megabass Aaron Rogers spinning rod I use for finesse baits but has other design advantages and fishes up to 3/4oz.

Now why did I buy it? I'll quote Darren's response...."because I can". I don't say this arrogantly but I know it sounds it. It's just that I am at the point in life when disposable income is more than when younger. I would never buy a rod this expensive when I was in 20's, 30's, or even 40's. But I am 54 almost 55, our financial house is in great order so I do have disposable income that allows me to enjoy some finer things without blinking.

Do I need a $400 rod with reel to match? No, but I enjoy the search, interaction with builder and fishing with rod that I helped design. But really I could fish with sub-$100 rod and still catch fish so the argument can be made why buy a $300 or $200 or $150? Heck, I go to my little pond sometimes and struggle and down the bank are a group of 12 years olds having a time of there life using walmart bought setup and catching fish under bobber/worms....

I used to collect and target shoot 1911's several times a week. Fishing is cheap compared to some shooting sports, so I figure now that I don't shoot so much I am actually saving money:)

NHBull reply :

I will never tell a man how to spend his money, but if I was counciling a noob, I would say that the jig rod is where he should focus extra $$$'.

The GLX is as high as I am prepared to go.

S Hovanec reply :

On 12/31/2017 at 8:49 PM, HookRz said:

Because it would be silly to throw $50 Japanese baits on an $80 dollar rod?

Kinda like putting steel wheels and hubcaps on a Benz, huh? They're all round and will roll, but one just looks better and gives more pleasure!

N Florida Mike reply :

I wouldn't try to tell someone how to spend their money but even if I was rich monetarily , I don't think I could spend 400.00 on a rod, or even 300.00.

I think the most I've ever spent on a COMBO was 130.00.

I'm happier and content catching fish with what I have , which is definitely not high-end.

fishwizzard reply :

On 12/31/2017 at 9:25 PM, 68camaro said:

I used to collect and target shoot 1911's several times a week. Fishing is cheap compared to some shooting sports, so I figure now that I don't shoot so much I am actually saving money:)

Yep, this is why nothing about fishing, other then boats, seems excessively expensive to me.

Fishin' Fool reply :

I bought 2 NRX's two years ago when they were on sale. I kept 1 and sold the other for what I paid for it. Once you use a rod like that it spoils you. I was okay with Johnny Morris rods prior but after fishing a NRX I wanted to throw my Carbonlite in the trash. Like the others have said fish what you can afford to buy.

Finnz922 reply :

More sensitive? Check and subjective

Lighter? Check

Catch you more fish? Nope

Fish what you can afford.

There is something to guys getting paid or some other kind of sponsorship that in some way financially benefits them. Look at Luke Clausen. Was with Megabass for years saying they were the best rods available. Now immediately after getting signed by Phenix rods, they are the lightest and most sensitive rods. He also said; "truly the best rods". Not mad at the guy, but I mean, c'mon man!

All fairness. I push Irods, but I'm not going to go preach they are the best rods out there. Everybody makes good rods anymore. To each their own.

Bankbeater reply :

It's all about fishing with equipment that makes you happy. The bass could care less.

rangerjockey reply :

I don't think there's a huge advantage to be had, if any. I'm lucky and get a discount on rods,reels baits ect.

I fish to try to put a couple bucks in my pocket as well as for fun.. I used to have a boat full of NRX'S but I catch just as many, and do as well with a solid $200 rod.

Heck, there's guys making a living fishing rods I personally would't use for a tomato stake but I guess it's the Indian not the arrow.

If someone has confidence in a certain brand or model then that's what they should fish but a rod isn't going to make a average fisherman a stick.

As far as pro's using rods that are different than what you can buy off the shelf, I've never seen that.

I have a couple that were used this past season by a Elite series pro and other than being more beat up than mine they fish the same as my factory rods.

detroit1 reply :

To each his own. I fish with rods and reels that would be considered mid-range to lower in price. I would like to fish with a $400 rig, but it will never happen. And I am fine with that.

tholmes reply :

Buy and fish whatever spins your fan. I don't own any "high end" fishing gear, but I enjoy fishing with what I have, and don't second guess what others use.

Many people would ask me why I would spend 2K+ on a guitar when a $250 guitar will do the same thing.

Everybody has different priorities and different means. Doesn't make them right or wrong, just different.

Tom

new2BC4bass reply :

On 1/1/2018 at 12:02 AM, tholmes said:

Buy and fish whatever spins your fan. I don't own any "high end" fishing gear, but I enjoy fishing with what I have, and don't second guess what others use.

Many people would ask me why I would spend 2K+ on a guitar when a $250 guitar will do the same thing.

Everybody has different priorities and different means. Doesn't make them right or wrong, just different.

Tom

And I would argue that just like when fishing, there are those that can make a $250 guitar sound pretty darn good while others couldn't make the $2k+ guitar sound any better than fingernails screeching on a chalkboard.

Boomstick reply :

I can think of a few different scenarios.

#1) First, the spoiled rich person with too much money where the extra $300 is like the average person buying a 25 cent pack of bubble gum. They can afford it, so why not?

#2) A diehard bass fisherman just wanted to see if it's truly worth it.

#3) A diehard bass fisherman wanted a rod with a specific grip and decided to get a custom rod built.

Myself, I try to aim around $100 for a rod and a reel, although might be willing to spend more on a reel because that's less likely to break from abuse. Past that, it seems like you get less for your money.

Say some company found a way to make a rod that has the same bend and weight as other rods made out of something new that was really expensive, but it could easily lift 100lbs before breaking, that would be worth $400 if you really loved the rod, right?

RichF reply :

On 12/31/2017 at 11:53 AM, Raul said:

Why on earth would somebody spend 50K in a bass boat ? I do perfectly fine with my 12 ft aluminum tub powered by that massive 6.5 HP Johnson outboard, hell, I bet I have caught more 10+ lbers than most of the fellas in this board from it than they in their fancy bass boats.

I imagine living in Mexico could possibly have something to do with that...lol.

onenutinthewater reply :

2 years ago I thought the only thing a $300 rod would catch was the sucker who bought it. Then I made the mistake of buying a few used loomis rods. Now I cannot fish with anything less. Once you use quality gear going back to budget gear is not possible. I spent 35 years using budget gear.

We could get to our fishing spots driving a ford pinto but why?

Raul reply :

On 1/1/2018 at 1:20 AM, RichF said:

I imagine living in Mexico could possibly have something to do with that...lol.

Living in Mexico helps, but if that were the case everybody should catch 10 lbers on a daily basis and ......99% of the people that fish for bass down here have never even seen a 10 lber, for example, my life long friend and fishing partner Pedro has never caught a 10 lber and we were on the same boat, hell, we were fishing the “same spot” sometimes, and he is a very talented and skillful angler.

Further North reply :

My Mom used to get all wrapped round the axle when she'd be driving along, about 5 MPH over the speed limit and someone would pass her, "Why do they have to go that fast?" she'd grump.

One time, tired of the same old, same old and being a teenager, I replied, "Because they can."

I earned a "look", but I was right.

Same thing with rods, reels, gear, boats cars, trucks...

All the "stuff" we buy sits on a curve that's called incremental improvement...and every increment along that curve comes with a price increase...and the price increase isn't linear.

Is a $400 rod 333% better than a $120 rod? Nope...but it is better.

I used to spend a lot of time shooting, buying, selling, trading and generally wallowing about in the world of SxS shotguns...

The price differences there make fishing equipment seem like nothing...you could buy a "functional" SxS for under $1,000, shoot just fine, enjoy life, and be OK as long as you didn't let the green eyed monsters of envy and jealousy get in your head.

You could also without a lot of work, spend $1,200, $2,500, $5000 or $7,500. Were the guns better? You bet. Better wood, lighter, faster, custom stock dimensions, really nice 100% coverage in hand engraving began to show up at the higher end of that curve. Was it worth it to everyone? Not a chance.

You could also, without a lot more work, double that and spend $15K. Better? Sure. At this point you begin to get wood to metal fit so good you can see it, but can't feel it. You get engraving that'll knock the socks off anyone with any appreciation for art, craftsmanship and attention to fine detail...along with everything on the $7,500 gun.

You could also, without a lot more work, pretty rapidly ramp that cost up to $20, $40, $50 or even $100,000...but every step was a very steep incremental improvement. The difference in engraving alone could be several hundred hours and delivery of the gun could be a couple years out from conception to delivery.

...and no, nowhere near all the folks buying those guns were stuffy, arrogant captains of industry, or royalty. I know a guy who worked as a tradesman his whole life who has several custom made Fox shotguns that are as fine as anything made by Purdy, Boss, or Holland & Holland. Wears jeans and work shirts, scuffed boots, drinks beer and lies about fishing just like the rest of us...

With any of this stuff, it's all about finding the place on the curve that best suits you and being happy with it.

Happiness ain't getting what you want it's wanting what you've got.

Sorry for the ramble, too cold to do much else today.

PS: I never spent anywhere near top end money for a shotgun, not by a several decimal places...but I've got a couple "keepers" that suit me very well.

scaleface reply :

There are people on this forum buying their "first" baitcasting combo paying more than I ever had .

Further North reply :

On 1/1/2018 at 3:12 AM, scaleface said:

There are people on this forum buying their "first" baitcasting combo paying more than I ever had .

Yup. The culture is different - way different - than it was when I started fishing, and that's kind of expected these days.

Lotta folks trying to buy the "best rod" and the "best reel" and the "best lures" and the "best line" thinking it'll help their fishing more than getting a decent rig, hitting the water and figuring out what they like, what works best for them and learning the "how to" side of things.

...that's how I got my boat...guy thought he'd go out and get a really nice boat, with a lot of high end equipment on it...and go start catching fish like the pros....

8 years later, I bought it for 1/4 of new $$$, with less than 10 hours on it...

Further North reply :

On 12/31/2017 at 9:33 AM, FattyWnnaCookie said:

Well thats kind of my question. What about the rod its self is fun? It can only change so much before it is just another rod with a higher price tag. I can gauge the difference in a phone because of its internals and capabilities that come with the bigger tag. However, with a bass rod, does the rod it self really continue to change with almost triple the price. I will almost certainly never get a chance to use one, so i can't really figure it out for myself.

I own a Legend Xtreme spinning rod.

It's got a reel of comparable quality/cost on it.

The whole thing, rod, reel, line, leader...weighs about 10.5 ounces. It's crazy sensitive and I can tell you what I'm pulling my bait through...you can feel it drag over a rock, tell when the bottom transitions and pick up the tiny change when a finicky smallie picks up a 1/8 oz. jig and react before she spits it back out.

It's really well balanced, and I could fish it all day, no problem. I've got a similar BFS rig, and it does exactly what it's supposed to do...Let's not even talk about fly fishing gear...

One thing that's worth talking about is that high end equipment often isn't useful to beginners or casual fishermen...they probably don't have a skill set that allows them to use the incremental improvements in away that even remotely makes up for the cost differences.

On 12/31/2017 at 11:53 AM, Raul said:

Why on earth would somebody spend 50K in a bass boat ? I do perfectly fine with my 12 ft aluminum tub powered by that massive 6.5 HP Johnson outboard, hell, I bet I have caught more 10+ lbers than most of the fellas in this board from it than they in their fancy bass boats.

...and you're having a ton of fun doing it!

That's all that matters.

Further North reply :

On 12/31/2017 at 9:00 PM, Sam said:

I use my high end rods for tournaments. Otherwise, the less expensive rods and reels are fine for prefishing and fun fishing.

I find this really interesting...why the difference?

Further North reply :

On 12/31/2017 at 9:25 PM, 68camaro said:

I have one custom made rod over $400, I use it for blade baits. It's made by guy who does it part time and has big following with 4 plus month wait. With a custom you get exactly what you want - everything from size, handle type & length, to color to action and everything in-between. For example, mine was built on 7'6" Point Blank blank cut down to 7'3", it's made for exactly what I wanted it to do.

I have mostly Dobyns, Megabass and another semi-custom rod but neither is in class like this. Its ability to throw bombs and insane sensitivity is unparalleled.

Now with that said did it make me a better fisherman, don't know, but it really increased confidence and I now use and have much more success with bladed baits than before i had it. It's just so sweet and so much fun to fish, it kinda has feel like my Megabass Aaron Rogers spinning rod I use for finesse baits but has other design advantages and fishes up to 3/4oz.

Now why did I buy it? I'll quote Darren's response...."because I can". I don't say this arrogantly but I know it sounds it. It's just that I am at the point in life when disposable income is more than when younger. I would never buy a rod this expensive when I was in 20's, 30's, or even 40's. But I am 54 almost 55, our financial house is in great order so I do have disposable income that allows me to enjoy some finer things without blinking.

Do I need a $400 rod with reel to match? No, but I enjoy the search, interaction with builder and fishing with rod that I helped design. But really I could fish with sub-$100 rod and still catch fish so the argument can be made why buy a $300 or $200 or $150? Heck, I go to my little pond sometimes and struggle and down the bank are a group of 12 years olds having a time of there life using walmart bought setup and catching fish under bobber/worms....

I used to collect and target shoot 1911's several times a week. Fishing is cheap compared to some shooting sports, so I figure now that I don't shoot so much I am actually saving money:)

Nailed it, IMO.

I found your example interesting, because I had a young guy near me build me a rod specifically for in-line spinners...specifically #5 Mepps or similar.

Why? It's my top search bait, and I want to be able to feel the blade spin...and when it stops...and be ablt to tell (most of the time) if it stopped because it ran into a weed, clipped a sunken tree branch, bounced off a rock...or got sucked in from behind by a 3 ft.pike...

PS: I'm 55, going on 56...funny how that works out...

On 12/31/2017 at 9:37 PM, S Hovanec said:

Kinda like putting steel wheels and hubcaps on a Benz, huh? They're all round and will roll, but one just looks better and gives more pleasure!

They work better too...

Less unsprung weight improves a lot of things on a car...

Russ E reply :

discussions about why would anyone pay a certain amount of money for a piece of equipent, is nothing new.

in my opinion, let your budget determine the cost of your equipment.

when I was younger and money was tight, I used low cost equipment and caught plenty of fish.

As my finances improved over the years, so has the cost and value of what I fish with.

Do I catch more fish with the higher end equipment? Maybe .

I will say higher end rods and reels are more fun to fish with all day and my bass boat is a lot safer and more comfortable to fish out of than my first jon boat.

Johnbt reply :

"First, the spoiled rich person with too much money where the extra $300 is like the average person buying a 25 cent pack of bubble gum. They can afford it, so why not?"

I'm 67 and I woke up one morning after 5 years of retirement and said, "Why not?"

So I ordered a Metanium MGL and a Steez SV TWS, just in time for winter. I have a nearly new St. Croix Sniper Spinnerbait LTB, but I think I'll look for a couple of nice rods to go with my nice reels. I've never fished a tournament, so there are only a few guys who will ever know what I bought and one of them will probably still outfish me 9 days out of 10.

I have a fair amount of fishing gear and still have two of my original casting outfits from the '50s and '60s - you know, metal rods and heavy reels better suited for worm fishing. Real worms. I've caught black sea bass with them and a variety of other things salty and fresh.

But I'm not a child anymore living in a row house in Baltimore. I'm also not 16 and working at McDonalds in D.C. for $1.15 an hour hauling big burlap bags of Idahos up from the basement and turning them into fries. Thank goodness I'm not.

My girlfriend says I'm rich and she's always right.

John

Stingray23 reply :

For all the guys saying that they dont need it, or dont want it or wouldnt get it even if they could, just dont make the mistake of fishing with high end gear. You will eat those words and will end up buying better rods and reels.

YaknBassn reply :

While I'll never spend that kind of cash on a rod, I certainly understand why someone would. Especially if they regularly fish tournaments.

A fishing a rod is a tool, no different than the tools I use to make my living. I can get by with a $4 pair of Wal-Mart linesman pliers, but the more expensive Klien Tools are better made, more comfortable, and make my job easier.

I used to scoff at the idea of spending $150 on a rod, believing that an Ugly Stik was just as good. Then I bought a $150 rod. There isnt a comparison. The more expensive rod is hands down a better tool. I can catch fish with an Ugly Stick, but I'm not as comfortable and the rod isn't as dependable.

I can buy that a Megabass rod is way better than an ALX rod. If it's in your budget and you can personally justify the need for a high end rod, then by all means, use one.

Scarborough817 reply :

main reasons are sensitivity and weight. go to your local shop and feel the difference in weight between a $100 rod and a $400 rod

WRB reply :

On 12/31/2017 at 8:39 AM, FattyWnnaCookie said:

Off the top of my head I don't recall you as a BR member? Good question to stir up replies during the cold winter period.

Most bass anglers do not have the means to pay more then thier expendable income on fishing tackle, but they do anyway. For the fortunate few who have the means and time to buy whatever they want price isn't a factor, they want the best availble.

When I started off shore fishing my partners didn't know how to fish but wanted learn so we started off with Penn Senator reels and local Sabre rods and caught lots of tuna and a few Marlin. We all joined the Balboa Anglers club and started tournament fishing, the boat went from 31' Bertram to 54' Pacifica, reels went from Senators to Internationals, the rods changed from off the shelf to custom, the sonar, radar, radios all upgraded, far above my pay grade but not my partners who now belonged to the Avalon Tuna club. I had to use vacation time to fish, they owned thier business. I own 2 each tricked out International reels from 30W, 50 & 50W, 80 and rods for each that I could afford then and no longer use today. I look back at those off shore trips to Mexico Baja and Cabo as being priceless. Yes the tackle was expensive, but needed for big tuna and Marlin.

Today's highend bass tackle cost as much as my off shore tackle did back 25 years ago. I can't justify paying $400-$800 for a rod or a reel and try to keep within 1/2 those amounts, not because I can't afford it, they aren't worth it to me and I don't need them to catch bass.

Tom

Angry John reply :

The real truth is you can not change someone's mind if they are ignorant and don't have the means. Maybe they want to be happy with there cheap gear. We waste our time trying to convince someone who does not want to be converted. I see this thread every winter. If you don't want to spend the money dont. We're not communist yet.

Columbia Craw reply :

The answer is simple. Because it was a $500.00 rod that was 20% off. How could anyone pass up saving a hundred bucks ?????? That's enough to buy a pair of Plizzers.

BrackishBassin reply :

On 1/1/2018 at 6:58 AM, Columbia Craw said:

The answer is simple. Because it was a $500.00 rod that was 20% off. How could anyone pass up saving a hundred bucks ?????? That's enough to buy a pair of Plizzers.

Only the freshwater ones though.

DINK WHISPERER reply :

Here we go again . . . . :dontknow:

Yumeya reply :

Why spend a $120 when you can buy a Ugly Stick?

I like Scott Martin but he is kind of a tool...

I love my NRX and Megabass rods, they are simply amazing to fish with.

I do believe they help you catch more fish when fishing on the bottom, feeling the bite is important.

Chefster reply :

Shoot. I’ll tell you why I did. Cause my wife said I could.

Would I buy another. Hell yes.

Raul reply :

On 1/1/2018 at 3:34 AM, Further North said:

I own a Legend Xtreme spinning rod.

It's got a reel of comparable quality/cost on it.

The whole thing, rod, reel, line, leader...weighs about 10.5 ounces. It's crazy sensitive and I can tell you what I'm pulling my bait through...you can feel it drag over a rock, tell when the bottom transitions and pick up the tiny change when a finicky smallie picks up a 1/8 oz. jig and react before she spits it back out.

It's really well balanced, and I could fish it all day, no problem. I've got a similar BFS rig, and it does exactly what it's supposed to do...Let's not even talk about fly fishing gear...

One thing that's worth talking about is that high end equipment often isn't useful to beginners or casual fishermen...they probably don't have a skill set that allows them to use the incremental improvements in away that even remotely makes up for the cost differences.

...and you're having a ton of fun doing it!

That's all that matters.

Do I look happy ? .....

mcipinkie reply :

The same reason people will pay $5.00 for cup of coffee. Someone has convinced them that it's worth it.

I like Quik Trip coffee just as well, if not better, than Starbucks.

When people quit buying the high dollar stuff, then it will quit selling.

Hell, You can buy a Cadillac pick up.

Further North reply :

On 1/1/2018 at 10:30 AM, mcipinkie said:

When people quit buying the high dollar stuff, then it will quit selling.

As long as it continues to offer incremental improvements, that'll never happen.

WI_Angler1989 reply :

I have a St Croix Legend Tournament Bass rod and it cost more than I ever thought I'd spend on a rod. Lo and behold, now I want a an Elite. Why? Every reason others have said. I know how sensitive they are and I love that feeling, I enjoy good gear, they're straight up gorgeous, etc.

Who knows if I will get it, but it's hard not to look and dream. That's half of the fun of high end gear for me!

ohboyitsrobby reply :

Pretty much the same reason the guy who fishes with lightning rods because it's what he can afford and gets the job done would ask why you spent $120 on a rod. I'm personally on the lower end of the financial bracket. But I sure love my falcon rods. I do pair them with low end pinnacle reels because it's what my budget allows. We'd all pretty much get the finest of the fine things if we could I'm sure.

Maxximus Redneckus reply :

My 80s pistol grip lightning rod with fuji guides top o the line back then with my abu 1500c on it weighs 8.5 oz.maybe im wrong but rods and handles got longer but im sure graphite is still the same but just like gas it went up.im pretty sure st croix and loomis could have made a nrx or legend for $80 $100 truth is the only things that have changed is ppl are to gullible.loomis could sell a rod for 3k all they gotta do is reword what they been writing 30 yr

Fishinthefish reply :

I don't own a rod under 300 dollars retail and I probably never will. I also don't own a reel under 200 dollars retail. I buy it because I can afford that budget range for fishing rods/reels. I would fish with ugly sticks if it's all I could afford. Is there a drastic difference in quality? Absolutely, there isn't a 50 dollar rod in the world that can compare to an NRX, ZBone, Legend Elite rods. It's not even the same ball park when it comes to overall weight, balancing and sensitivity. Does that matter at the end of the day? No, not really. Having fun with that you can afford to have fun with is what's important. Fishing by nature isn't a rich mans sport, you can use an old cane pole and a can of worms you got after a rain and do just fine. Or you can spend thousands of dollars a year on lures, terminal tackle. And thousands more on equipment.

roadwarrior reply :

It's not about the "catching", it's all about the "fishing". For many better gear is just more fun!

senile1 reply :

I can only speculate as to why others would buy a high end rod because I am not a mind reader. I bought my first high end rod at a lower price on Ebay, out of curiosity. Like a few have stated, once I bought that rod I realized the incremental improvement in sensitivity for jigs and soft plastics was definitely worth it to me. I own a few and I can afford them. I highly suspect they have allowed me to catch a few bass that I would have never had any awareness had bitten. And I think because I can feel the bottom better, I hang up less. Like a lot of anglers I did not buy them before because I couldn't imagine the small improvement over a mid-range rod would make a difference. I was wrong.

Sam reply :

On 1/1/2018 at 3:47 AM, Further North said:

I find this really interesting...why the difference?

Further, so I don't destroy or lose them when fun or prefishing.

I have already knocked an Extreme out of the boat and into a pond and have broken two other rods while pond fishing.

So I keep my high end rods in my man cave inside my house and use them for tournaments, only.

fishwizzard reply :

On 1/1/2018 at 10:21 PM, senile1 said:

I can only speculate as to why others would buy a high end rod because I am not a mind reader. I bought my first high end rod at a lower price on Ebay, out of curiosity.

Hah, I did more or less the same thing. I wanted heavier rod and was like "what the heck, I will spring for an IMX just to see if it's really better the the rods I have now". Then from there it just progressed and progressed. I am currently saving up for an NRX JWR so I can see what all the fuss is about.

If there was a place that would rent out high-end rods by the week I thinK I wouldn't own more than a small handful of combos, so curiosity plays a huge role for why I keep buying gear. I am also dying to try a solid tipped rod, but don't want to buy one blind. But I know at some point I am gonna have one more beer with dinner and click that button, just so I can see what they are like.

Fishinthefish reply :

On 1/2/2018 at 2:48 AM, fishwizzard said:

Hah, I did more or less the same thing. I wanted heavier rod and was like "what the heck, I will spring for an IMX just to see if it's really better the the rods I have now". Then from there it just progressed and progressed. I am currently saving up for an NRX JWR so I can see what all the fuss is about.

If there was a place that would rent out high-end rods by the week I thinK I wouldn't own more than a small handful of combos, so curiosity plays a huge role for why I keep buying gear. I am also dying to try a solid tipped rod, but don't want to buy one blind. But I know at some point I am gonna have one more beer with dinner and click that button, just so I can see what they are like.

I'm warning you now so you can't blame anyone but yourself. There are two rods that once you buy you never go back from. NRX, and custom built rods by a quality dealer. As soon as you handle one, everything else feels like a limp noodle, or a broom stick.

fishwizzard reply :

On 1/2/2018 at 3:07 AM, Fishinthefish said:

I'm warning you now so you can't blame anyone but yourself. There are two rods that once you buy you never go back from. NRX, and custom built rods by a quality dealer. As soon as you handle one, everything else feels like a limp noodle, or a broom stick.

Yea, the NRX line having a certain jena se quois seems to be a very common thought. It's hard not go give credence to such an overwhelmingly similar description from so many people. I have two more "urgent" rods I need to pick up, so the NRX fund is not getting a lot of contributions these days and I feel like the Orochi XX relaunch is going to kill my overall fun-fund for quite some time.

Yudo1 reply :

I'm no pro so I fish purely for fun and relaxation. I have no doubt Scott Martin could out fish me with an ugly stik, but I sure do enjoy using my nrx, megabass and kistlers. I also have and use some $100 rods too. Fishing is the only hobby I spend money on. While $400 is a lot of money, it will give me years of enjoyment so broken down over time it's not too bad. Sort of a buy once, cry once philosophy.

Higher end rods are like any higher end product. You could get to work in any vehicle, but I'd choose something like a mercedes or bmw over a hyundai (I own a hyundai). Fortunately high end fishing gear doesn't cost as much as a bmw, so I can afford it. I appreciate the light weight, sensitivity and action of higher end rods. Not everyone really appreciates high end gear though. My buddy for instance could afford high end rods, but sticks with rods in the $100 range. He could care less. He points out that my gear doesn't catch more fish and he's right.

A $75000 bass boat doesn't fit my budget, but a high-end rod does. Life is too short and unpredictable. The only thing that worries me is if something happens to me, my wife will sell it all for $10 in a garage sale.

Montanaro reply :

Scott won FLW using almost exclusively his TCS rods and I watched him use them in those tournaments.

They are well made dependable rods that fit his style of fishing and look nice to boot.

I cant afford $400 rods, but if I could Id buy one or two for the lightness and sensitivity and comfort. I have a used steez 6'7" i got for $175 and I can fish it all day and ive caught fish I wouldn't have felt with some low end rods I have owned.

However Id prefer to buy a few $200 rods rather than 1 or 2 400-500 rods

Dtrombly reply :

I'm revamping my arsenal over winter. Planning on putting the bigger money (~$300) into my jig rod and round out the lineup with $100-$150 sticks.

new2BC4bass reply :

On 1/2/2018 at 4:49 AM, Yudo1 said:

While $400 is a lot of money, it will give me years of enjoyment so broken down over time it's not too bad.

I don't have any $400 rods, or $300, or $200 (my cost), but I do have way more rods than I should. My wife complains about how many. I tell her they will likely still be usable after I am gone. She can't say that about any of the thousands she has spent over the years.

TnRiver46 reply :

I have never bought a rod over $40, not really sure why sorted through this topic hahahaha

BassWhole! reply :

God bless the American male sporting goods consumer.

RichF reply :

I don't understand why this is such a highly debated topic. If you like high end stuff and can afford it...get it, use it, and be happy. If not, just don't buy it. What's the point of telling others "they're wasting money" or "it's not worth it" or "I can catch more with my $20 rod than you can with your $400 one."

To answer the OP; the Legend Xtreme is an incredible line of rods. There are few others out there that are on par with the build, strength, and sensitivity. They're also backed by a pretty incredible warranty. So are they worth the price tag? I'd say yes.

Further North reply :

On 1/1/2018 at 11:45 PM, Sam said:

Further, so I don't destroy or lose them when fun or prefishing.

I have already knocked an Extreme out of the boat and into a pond and have broken two other rods while pond fishing.

So I keep my high end rods in my man cave inside my house and use them for tournaments, only.

Makes sense, I guess.

I don't fish tournaments so I don't worry about times when I'm not fishing them. I booted my Legend Xtreme over the side of the boat on Lake Pepin...only the fast action of my fishing partner...and the fact that we were in about 2 feet of water...saved it.

On 1/1/2018 at 2:41 PM, Maxximus Redneckus said:

My 80s pistol grip lightning rod with fuji guides top o the line back then with my abu 1500c on it weighs 8.5 oz.maybe im wrong but rods and handles got longer but im sure graphite is still the same but just like gas it went up.im pretty sure st croix and loomis could have made a nrx or legend for $80 $100 truth is the only things that have changed is ppl are to gullible.loomis could sell a rod for 3k all they gotta do is reword what they been writing 30 yr

The reel alone weights 9.3 oz...

Further North reply :

On 1/2/2018 at 3:07 AM, Fishinthefish said:

I'm warning you now so you can't blame anyone but yourself. There are two rods that once you buy you never go back from. NRX, and custom built rods by a quality dealer. As soon as you handle one, everything else feels like a limp noodle, or a broom stick.

There is, IMO, not much better than a custom built rod.

They can often coast less...far less...that retail offerings, if you are specific about your wants and needs.

There's a young guy I work with who has saved me hundreds of dollars while producing exactly what I've been looking for...it's all about leveling expectations up front and having a very, very solid idea of what you want.

Going back to a previous post of mine, same goes for custom built shotguns. When your gun is custom stocked and balanced for exactly the way you shoot...it shoots where you look and you don't have to think about it...or aim...for even a micro-second. See bird, mount gun, pull trigger...or more graphically: Butt, belly, beak, bang! You won't even remember mounting, swinging or even pointing the gun...

Fishing rods can be the same and cost a helluva lot less...

On 1/2/2018 at 6:06 AM, Dtrombly said:

I'm revamping my arsenal over winter. Planning on putting the bigger money (~$300) into my jig rod and round out the lineup with $100-$150 sticks.

Good choice.

Further North reply :

On 1/2/2018 at 9:06 AM, RichF said:

I don't understand why this is such a highly debated topic. If you like high end stuff and can afford it...get it, use it, and be happy. If not, just don't buy it. What's the point of telling others "they're wasting money" or "it's not worth it" or "I can catch more with my $20 rod than you can with your $400 one."

To answer the OP; the Legend Xtreme is an incredible line of rods. There are few others out there that are on par with the build, strength, and sensitivity. They're also backed by a pretty incredible warranty. So are they worth the price tag? I'd say yes.

Your 1^st paragraph, IMO, nails it.

There's a subset of fishermen who want to be able to deride folks who can afford high end gear and choose to buy it.

There's another subset of fishermen who want to be able to deride folks who settle for lower priced gear.

Both groups are, IMO, worthless. Sorry if that offends, but if you look in a mirror and you see yourself in either of those groups..ask yourself why you're there...

The whole concept of fishing...for fun, or for $$$, is a cost/benefit proposition. Do what works for you, what you can afford and makes sense for where you are, right now...and blow off any Gomers who tell you you're wrong. They've got no idea where you are in your life and have no business telling you what's right or wrong.

NHBull reply :

Wow, this thread is still going on! Almost makes my eyes bleed.

Regardless of cost, it is cheaper than therapy!

Further North reply :

On 1/2/2018 at 10:36 AM, NHBull said:

Regardless of cost, it is cheaper than therapy!

Doood...made me laugh out loud...

BrackishBassin reply :

On 1/2/2018 at 10:36 AM, NHBull said:

Wow, this thread is still going on! Almost makes my eyes bleed.

Regardless of cost, it is cheaper than therapy!

If only we could get insurance to cover it...

Catt reply :

On 1/2/2018 at 10:33 AM, Further North said:

The whole concept of fishing...for fun, or for $$$, is a cost/benefit proposition. Do what works for you, what you can afford and makes sense for where you are, right now...and blow off any Gomers who tell you you're wrong. They've got no idea where you are in your life and have no business telling you what's right or wrong.

The #1 key to consistently catching bass is between your ears not between the folds of your wallet!

I personally know a dozen elite level anglers & a couple dozen guides, not a single one throws $400+ dollar rods, most are in the $250-300 range.

A huge portion of sensitivity has to do with who is holding the rod & how the brain interpretation of what it's sensing.

Johnbt reply :

"Regardless of cost, it is cheaper than therapy!"

Works better too. But if the day ever comes it doesn't work better for me, my girlfriend is a licensed counselor.

Further North reply :

On 1/2/2018 at 8:32 PM, Catt said:

The #1 key to consistently catching bass is between your ears not between the folds of your wallet!

I personally know a dozen elite level anglers & a couple dozen guides, not a single one throws $400+ dollar rods, most are in the $250-300 range.

A huge portion of sensitivity has to do with who is holding the rod & how the brain interpretation of what it's sensing.

Well, sure...but I still don't believe it's best blow off any Gomers who tell you you're wrong. They've got no idea where you are in your life and have no business telling you what's right or wrong.

long island basser reply :

I believe this thread only continues because of one nasty little word.

Jealous.

Russ E reply :

I know a lot of fishermen who would never pay $400.00 for a rod, but they own 15 to 20 $200.00 rods.

which is worse?

I would say I am closer to the 15-20 $200.00 rods. I would have no problem paying $400.00 for a rod if I felt it was worth it. If I consider what I pay in Gas and tackle every year to fish,$400.00 is not that much.

Further North reply :

On 1/3/2018 at 10:33 AM, Weedwhacker said:

If I consider what I pay in Gas and tackle every year to fish,$400.00 is not that much.

...nailed that...

On 1/3/2018 at 10:18 AM, long island basser said:

I believe this thread only continues because of one nasty little word.

Jealous.

People who are unhappy about what other people have will never, ever find happiness of their own.

...it'd truly suck to be one of those people.

fishindad reply :

On 1/3/2018 at 11:21 AM, Further North said:

...nailed that...

People who are unhappy about what other people have will never, ever find happiness of their own.

...it'd truly suck to be one of those people.

Respectfully disagree with you and long island. The one word I'd use to describe the people who are unhappy in this life is "insecurity." To use Catt's post as an example, of his friend who won't be caught dead using less than the best, is a cycle that marketers and advertisers aim for and suck these people in with. Similar strategy as those women's magazines at the checkout that prey upon their insecurities of not being beautiful enough. The unhappy ones are those who feel that what they own, wear, drive, fish with, etc. defines them. I would guess that Catt could outfish (for bass) his friend with the Basscat any day of the week.

I also would bet there are more guys than not who are up to their eyeballs in loan payments driving boats and tow rigs they actually cannot afford. Why is that? Do they actually think they won't be taken seriously as a bass angler unless they fish out of a 521? Do you think these same guys look down on anyone fishing out of an old jonboat/kayak/deep V?

I make plenty of money at a job I love and own some high end rods, including the aforementioned St Croix Legend Elite/Extreme. Is it better than a $120 rod? Sure. Does it catch more fish than a $120 rod? Only if the St Croix was in Aaron Martens' hands vs mine, lol.

We are all free to spend our hard-earned cash they way we please. But...If it ever comes down to me not wanting to be seen fishing with less than a Conquest/Aldebaran combo or fishing out of a Basscat, I'll quit fishing. In my opinion, what sucks is to be the person who "needs" to be seen wearing a Rolex, using an NRX, driving a BMW, etc. and is always looking to buy their way to happiness with the latest and greatest.

Note to Catt: I hope you know I mean no disrespect to you or your friend. I was just using that as an example : )

Catt reply :

@fishindad totally understand & agree!

The friend I mentioned Allen along others he fishes club tournaments with buy the highest end equipment because it fits their persona. They know all the latest buzz words, they know all the most popular techniques, they dress a particular way, drive a certain tow vehicle, pulling the newest boats. They're constantly trying to gain that little edge & believe tackle/equipment is the edge.

Angry John reply :

The edge is market hype. Another 50 hp in that motor means nothing to me. If your a pro then you have a budget and you are in it for money. I am in it for fun and friends so the cost is not my primary concern. I fish out of a yak because it leaves more fore tackle. Some people enjoy nice gear, I know I do, not because it's expensive. The best rods I have are hand made and are worth way more than the money they cost. Money is always a factor in life but let's be real 400 dollars for a rod is not near top end these days.

hawgenvy reply :

A relatively wealthy fishing buddy of mine uses cheap rods and reels, and does very well with them. He enjoys fishing and catching fish, as I do. He enjoys, like me, being outdoors. We both love going out and thinking about fishing and nothing else. The problems of work, home, politics, bills and money disappear as we concern ourselves with what bait to throw next and where to throw it. But I have an additional pleasure in fishing that he doesn't have. I'm talking about machine pleasure, the appreciation of refined mechanical function, the beauty of fine fit and finish, the smoothness of a reel, the liveliness of the rod working the bait, its lightness and sensitivity, the sublime way a fine rod bends to a big fish while maintaining confident power and control. My friend doesn't get that at all, just like many people cannot appreciate a superb automobile. To them it's just transportation. Sure, an important aspect of having great equipment has to do with what you can afford. But in most cases it's a matter of priorities. If you can appreciate the beauty and feel of a fine machine, if using a finely crafted $300-400 rod or reel sends shivers of pleasure down your spine, go for it. But if it doesn't matter to you, use cheap but functional stuff. It works nearly as well and you won't even know what you're missing.

NYWayfarer reply :

My biggest problem with a $400 rod is durability.

If my $50 rod snaps on a submerged branch hook-set or getting caught in a door I am going to cuss up a storm and then go out and buy a new one.

If my $400 rod snaps the same way I am going to snap mentally and get real depressed at the waste of money. then I have to save up enough disposable income to buy another. Chances are once I save up about $60 towards the $400 I am going to buy a Fenwick Eagle.

Further North reply :

On 1/3/2018 at 11:35 PM, NYWayfarer said:

If my $400 rod snaps the same way I am going to snap mentally and get real depressed at the waste of money. then I have to save up enough disposable income to buy another. Chances are once I save up about $60 towards the $400 I am going to buy a Fenwick Eagle.

If most $400 rods snap, you're going to call up the company, send in the broken rod, pay for shipping and handling and have a new rod on the way in a couple days.

Catt reply :

On 1/3/2018 at 11:42 PM, Further North said:

If most $400 rods snap, you're going to call up the company, send in the broken rod, pay for shipping and handling and have a new rod on the way in a couple days.

I can do that with my $200 rod ????

fishballer06 reply :

On 1/3/2018 at 11:35 PM, NYWayfarer said:

If my $400 rod snaps the same way I am going to snap mentally and get real depressed at the waste of money. then I have to save up enough disposable income to buy another.

On 1/3/2018 at 11:42 PM, Further North said:

If most $400 rods snap, you're going to call up the company, send in the broken rod, pay for shipping and handling and have a new rod on the way in a couple days.

This.

NYWayfarer reply :

On 1/3/2018 at 11:42 PM, Further North said:

If most $400 rods snap, you're going to call up the company, send in the broken rod, pay for shipping and handling and have a new rod on the way in a couple days.

I am not talking about a manufacturers defect I am speaking of breaking the rod by doing something dumb, I am accident prone.

I will not return the rod for replacement if it was my fault.

Jaderose reply :

Why do people pay a million dollars for a Ferrari? Because they can and that represents value to them. To me, the biggest question is, "Why on earth would anyone care what someone else pays for a bass rod?"

RichF reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 12:21 AM, NYWayfarer said:

I am not talking about a manufacturers defect I am speaking of breaking the rod by doing something dumb, I am accident prone.

I will not return the rod for replacement if it was my fault.

See St Croix's replacement program...You break your Legend Xtreme by doing something dumb, pay $15 for a Fedex shipping label from the website and pay $85 for the replacement cost. $100 total to replace your broken Xtreme. Pretty darn good deal IMO.

Ratherbfishing reply :

Like most things, there is a law of diminishing returns on fishing gear. And I've got other things I'd like to spend my extra money on, too. HOWEVER, if a person wants to spend a bunch of money on something (rod, car, shotgun, wife)-more power to them. My ONLY concern is when this becomes a trend among consumers, I believe it can drive up the price on everything. I've no research to back this up but I suspect it is true.

johnmyers reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 12:25 AM, Jaderose said:

Why do people pay a million dollars for a Ferrari? Because they can and that represents value to them. To me, the biggest question is, "Why on earth would anyone care what someone else pays for a bass rod?"

Exactly

Montanaro reply :

Lets get something straight...

The difference in an imported exotic v10 super car among other cars is substantially greater than a $400 fishing stick among cheaper sticks.

Deeare reply :

I love high end gear but you don't have to pay full price If you wait for a good deal online.

I won't buy a rod over $200 unless it's on sale (at least $100 off). I ended up getting a glx last year during an online sale for $250. G loomis has the wildcard program (you got to register the rod though). When the rod breaks in 4 or 5 years they will replace it for free no questions asked!!!

Make sure your the high end rod has a great warranty and it's a no brainer!!!

Further North reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 12:21 AM, NYWayfarer said:

I am not talking about a manufacturers defect I am speaking of breaking the rod by doing something dumb, I am accident prone.

I will not return the rod for replacement if it was my fault.

St. Croix actually has a program for that:http://stcroixrods.com/service-warranty/service-warranty-policies/

Their "Gold Service Plan":

Quote

GOLD STAR SERVICE PLAN

Ahh..but what if you’re not registered as the original owner of the rod. Or your buddy stepped on your rod, or slammed it in a car door, or worse yet, used it to free a snag. No worries. St. Croix’s Gold Star Plan eliminates the uncertainty of a dubious warranty claim.

On 1/4/2018 at 3:13 AM, Montanaro said:

Lets get something straight...

The difference in an imported exotic v10 super car among other cars is substantially greater than a $400 fishing stick among cheaper sticks.

Not really. It's all about incremental improvement.

There's a huge difference between a $300 basic pump shotgun and a $100,000 Boss, or Purdy to...but every step along the way has it's benefit and associated cost.

Same with cars, rods, boats...IMO, of course.

S Hovanec reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 12:21 AM, NYWayfarer said:

I will not return the rod for replacement if it was my fault.

Me either. I have 2 old LE's that are broke. No clue how, just that they were broke when I pulled them out of the rod sock. They weren't broke in a fishing situation and I doubt due to manufacturer's defect as they were both 4+ years old when they broke. I won't send them back. Not their fault they broke.

On 1/3/2018 at 10:33 AM, Weedwhacker said:

I know a lot of fishermen who would never pay $400.00 for a rod

I would never pay $400 for a rod, but I have no problem spending $250-$300+ on components to build myself a $500+ rod.

FattyWnnaCookie reply :

On 1/1/2018 at 6:30 AM, Angry John said:

The real truth is you can not change someone's mind if they are ignorant and don't have the means. Maybe they want to be happy with there cheap gear. We waste our time trying to convince someone who does not want to be converted. I see this thread every winter. If you don't want to spend the money dont. We're not communist yet.

Well my question wasnt about ignorance or not having the means etc... It was really about a tournament rod that a pro uses being almost 300 dollars less than another rod. I do not see where the extra 300 dollars improves the other rod. Thats the real question.

On 1/2/2018 at 5:54 AM, Montanaro said:

Scott won FLW using almost exclusively his TCS rods and I watched him use them in those tournaments.

They are well made dependable rods that fit his style of fishing and look nice to boot.

I cant afford $400 rods, but if I could Id buy one or two for the lightness and sensitivity and comfort. I have a used steez 6'7" i got for $175 and I can fish it all day and ive caught fish I wouldn't have felt with some low end rods I have owned.

However Id prefer to buy a few $200 rods rather than 1 or 2 400-500 rods

I agree about his line of rods. However, my question (somewhat skewed throughout this thread) was more about how his rods could be priced less than half of the other rod, yet perform great for a world class bass angler. They do the job great, so its tough for me to wrap my head around a 400 dollar rod that cant possibly catch the fish any better.

RichF reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 3:30 AM, S Hovanec said:

Me either. I have 2 old LE's that are broke. No clue how, just that they were broke when I pulled them out of the rod sock. They weren't broke in a fishing situation and I doubt due to manufacturer's defect as they were both 4+ years old when they broke. I won't send them back. Not their fault they broke.

I would never pay $400 for a rod, but I have no problem spending $250-$300+ on components to build myself a $500+ rod.

Seems silly unless you just don't like them. I would wager that the Croix warranty is somewhat built into the price of their rods. That's why they offer such a great program. Why not take advantage of a program the company itself offers?

S Hovanec reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 4:16 AM, RichF said:

Why not take advantage of a program the company itself offers?

Because I despise no fault warranty programs. It makes people feel the rods are unbreakable and if they do break, regardless of circumstance, I'll just send it back and get another one. If it would have broke within the first couple trips, I would have sent it back. As old as it was, I had to damage it in some way.

I really wish manufacturers would do away with all of those programs and go to 30 day or 90 day warranty. If a defect doesn't show up in that length of time, the rod broke due to operator error.

RichF reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 3:55 AM, FattyWnnaCookie said:

I agree about his line of rods. However, my question (somewhat skewed throughout this thread) was more about how his rods could be priced less than half of the other rod, yet perform great for a world class bass angler. They do the job great, so its tough for me to wrap my head around a 400 dollar rod that cant possibly catch the fish any better.

Skeet Reese uses cheaper rods than Scott. Many Elites sponsored by Pure Fishing are using Abu Garcia Veritas rods which run $100. Scott uses Okuma rods because he's paid to do so. I have no doubt he likes them and thinks they are fine rods...most $100 sticks nowadays are. His TCS rods are just made in China with cheaper components and lower quality blanks, that's why the difference in price is so substantial. Legend Xtremes are built in the USA with superior components. Scott used to be sponsored by Kistler (another more expensive, higher quality rod, built in the USA). He caught plenty with those too. Bottom line; his rods work for him because he's a good fisherman.

Many folks just like using high end gear and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that. There are plenty of advantages of $400+ rods over $120 ones, many of which have been discussed in the thread, so I won't rehash. Whether or not those advantages are worth the extra cash are purely subjective. So again, if you like expensive gear and can afford it, why not?

RichF reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 4:32 AM, S Hovanec said:

Because I despise no fault warranty programs. It makes people feel the rods are unbreakable and if they do break, regardless of circumstance, I'll just send it back and get another one. If it would have broke within the first couple trips, I would have sent it back. As old as it was, I had to damage it in some way.

I really wish manufacturers would do away with all of those programs and go to 30 day or 90 day warranty. If a defect doesn't show up in that length of time, the rod broke due to operator error.

I suppose this would make sense if the warranty didn't specifically cover accidental damage and they didn't charge for the replacement. I think it's a good business model that works well for St. Croix. They get a lot of mine and my father's business because of their warranty. If you fish enough, rods are going to break; they're fragile toys. Last year, I broke the tips off a Legend Xtreme, Rage, and Legend Tournament at the same time during transport in a rod tube. That's close to $800. Through their warranty, I got them replaced (including an upgrade from the Rage to Avid X) for about $250. That's a great piece of mind when you fish as much as I do (or used to) and pour tons of money into the industry every year.

Angry John reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 4:32 AM, S Hovanec said:

Because I despise no fault warranty programs. It makes people feel the rods are unbreakable and if they do break, regardless of circumstance, I'll just send it back and get another one. If it would have broke within the first couple trips, I would have sent it back. As old as it was, I had to damage it in some way.

I really wish manufacturers would do away with all of those programs and go to 30 day or 90 day warranty. If a defect doesn't show up in that length of time, the rod broke due to operator error.

Some people do have very short periods. I think the black widow rods from nfc have a very short warranty and maybe the z-bones but not positive. I know there out there maybe I got the company wrong.

fishindad reply :

Back in my mid-to-late twenties (1980's and 90's) I was a highly competitive triathlete in California. I quickly learned that the guys that were the most "dangerous" were the ones who showed up in old grey sweats, with well-used bikes and running shoes. The ones who I was never worried about after the gun showed up in the latest Nike lycra and $3000 bikes that looked like they just came off the showroom floor. All show and no go.

I'm all for people spending their money as they please (assuming they legally earned it of course); this is America. My reply was geared towards folks who believe success (at fishing, life, sports, whatever) is determined by the labels on your "stuff".

My bass fishing role models are Charlie Brewer, Billy Westmoreland, Jerry McKinnis, Ned Kehde, and Larry Nixon. Who'da guessed this big city boy from Chicago would grow up to idolize some good 'old country boys. Those guys didn't need NRX rods or side imaging or spot lock to catch bass.

68camaro reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 5:23 AM, fishindad said:

Back in my mid-to-late twenties (1980's and 90's) I was a highly competitive triathlete in California. I quickly learned that the guys that were the most "dangerous" were the ones who showed up in old grey sweats, with well-used bikes and running shoes. The ones who I was never worried about after the gun showed up in the latest Nike lycra and $3000 bikes that looked like they just came off the showroom floor. All show and no go.

At shooting range the saying is beware of the old timer with the worn out wheel gun and duffle bag

Deeare reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 4:32 AM, S Hovanec said:

Because I despise no fault warranty programs. It makes people feel the rods are unbreakable and if they do break, regardless of circumstance, I'll just send it back and get another one

No disrespect but if that's the warranty (no questions asked) why not use it? It's built into the price of the rod and it is a big reason why a lot of people I know buy g loomis. My wife broke the tip off of a brand new rod in the cellar door. Thank god I had the warranty!!

Montanaro reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 3:18 AM, Further North said:

St. Croix actually has a program for that:http://stcroixrods.com/service-warranty/service-warranty-policies/

Their "Gold Service Plan":

Not really. It's all about incremental improvement.

There's a huge difference between a $300 basic pump shotgun and a $100,000 Boss, or Purdy to...but every step along the way has it's benefit and associated cost.

Same with cars, rods, boats...IMO, of course.

Im just saying if people are going to compare cars to rods at least make an accurate comparison on the percentage difference in cost.

Like a hellcat versus a ss camaro.

Both can haul ass but the one is more refined and exclusive and a bit faster.

Fishing rods have no bugatti equivalent.

Johnbt reply :

$400 is nothing.

1929 ad...

Gold and topaz accents on the rod. The reel is solid gold with a topaz handle.

Fishinthefish reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 7:48 AM, Montanaro said:

Im just saying if people are going to compare cars to rods at least make an accurate comparison on the percentage difference in cost.

Like a hellcat versus a ss camaro.

Both can haul ass but the one is more refined and exclusive and a bit faster.

Fishing rods have no bugatti equivalent.

http://tackletrap.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=5037

The Bugatti.

Angry John reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 9:10 AM, Fishinthefish said:

http://tackletrap.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=5037

The Bugatti.

That's the cheapest arms rod I have seen.

https://www.eastackle.com/c-1319-megabass-arms-super-leggera-bait-casting-rods.aspx

LOZSteve reply :

That's the cheapest arms rod I have seen.

https://www.eastackle.com/c-1319-megabass-arms-super-leggera-bait-casting-rods.aspx

Fortunately those are listed as out of stock so I lost interest quickly. Guess I won’t start selling off my NRX’s just yet. Someday I am sure I will get tired of them as well. You can only stay on top so long.

Montanaro reply :

Aint no girl dropping her panties for a megabass rod...

Fishinthefish reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 9:44 AM, LOZSteve said:

That's the cheapest arms rod I have seen.

https://www.eastackle.com/c-1319-megabass-arms-super-leggera-bait-casting-rods.aspx

Fortunately those are listed as out of stock so I lost interest quickly. Guess I won’t start selling off my NRX’s just yet. Someday I am sure I will get tired of them as well. You can only stay on top so long.

That's because they're custom built per order, you have to specify which handed you are because they custom shave the wood down to fit the hand you'll be holding the rod with while reeling. Pain in the ass for people who cast with one then switch. Great for guys like me.

On 1/4/2018 at 9:44 AM, Montanaro said:

Aint no girl dropping her panties for a megabass rod...

You're dating the wrong women my friend.

TnRiver46 reply :

On 1/3/2018 at 2:35 PM, hawgenvy said:

A relatively wealthy fishing buddy of mine uses cheap rods and reels, and does very well with them. He enjoys fishing and catching fish, as I do. He enjoys, like me, being outdoors. We both love going out and thinking about fishing and nothing else. The problems of work, home, politics, bills and money disappear as we concern ourselves with what bait to throw next and where to throw it. But I have an additional pleasure in fishing that he doesn't have. I'm talking about machine pleasure, the appreciation of refined mechanical function, the beauty of fine fit and finish, the smoothness of a reel, the liveliness of the rod working the bait, its lightness and sensitivity, the sublime way a fine rod bends to a big fish while maintaining confident power and control. My friend doesn't get that at all, just like many people cannot appreciate a superb automobile. To them it's just transportation. Sure, an important aspect of having great equipment has to do with what you can afford. But in most cases it's a matter of priorities. If you can appreciate the beauty and feel of a fine machine, if using a finely crafted $300-400 rod or reel sends shivers of pleasure down your spine, go for it. But if it doesn't matter to you, use cheap but functional stuff. It works nearly as well and you won't even know what you're missing.

Bingo

Angry John reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 9:44 AM, LOZSteve said:

That's the cheapest arms rod I have seen.

https://www.eastackle.com/c-1319-megabass-arms-super-leggera-bait-casting-rods.aspx

Fortunately those are listed as out of stock so I lost interest quickly. Guess I won’t start selling off my NRX’s just yet. Someday I am sure I will get tired of them as well. You can only stay on top so long.

If your goin to do that then there is the conquest and your already behind

iabass8 reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 3:14 AM, Deeare said:

I love high end gear but you don't have to pay full price If you wait for a good deal online.

I won't buy a rod over $200 unless it's on sale (at least $100 off). I ended up getting a glx last year during an online sale for $250. G loomis has the wildcard program (you got to register the rod though). When the rod breaks in 4 or 5 years they will replace it for free no questions asked!!!

Make sure your the high end rod has a great warranty and it's a no brainer!!!

That's kind of true. Gloomis does not offer the wild card program anymore and has not since 2015/2016. It is now the Xpeditor program that is not a one time free no questions asked replacement that is sent to you immediately and you are given 30 days to send your broken one back or you are charged for the new one. It's X amount of dollars in regards to the series. I believe the NRX is 100$. If you have an old wildcard, they will be honored but you won't get a new one in return and they do not offer them anymore.

CroakHunter reply :

I use $400 rods to fish with. And $120 rods to beat dead horses with.

LesterKTM reply :

I have been working my way up the rod and reel price ladder. Fished cheap walmart stuff most of my life. Been getting more serious last few years. Bought a few Lews $80 rods and $100 speed spool baitcasters. Nice step up for sure but then I bought a few Dobyns Fury rods $110. Very Nice rods. I was most surprised by the weight. So light and sensitive. Then I got a Okuma EVX B rod for a great price and it really surprised me. IMO on par with the Dobyns maybe even lighter. I followed that up with a couple Okuma Scott Martin TCS rods and another step up in rod quality. Unbelievably light. Add a couple BB1 reels and I am loving these. Maybe a few more years and I might end up with a Loomis or Dobyns Champion... We will see. Until then I am thoroughly impressed with the Dobyns and Okuma rods. A big step up from the under $150 combos.

Delaware Valley Tackle reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 4:32 AM, S Hovanec said:

Because I despise no fault warranty programs. It makes people feel the rods are unbreakable and if they do break, regardless of circumstance, I'll just send it back and get another one. If it would have broke within the first couple trips, I would have sent it back. As old as it was, I had to damage it in some way.

I really wish manufacturers would do away with all of those programs and go to 30 day or 90 day warranty. If a defect doesn't show up in that length of time, the rod broke due to operator error.

I'm with ya 1000%. These "warranties " are really insurance policies with the premium hidden in the price of the rod.

Delaware Valley Tackle reply :

I could care less what equipment a "pro" uses. They're salesmen. That's not a knock by any means just a fact. In some cases they don't even use the stuff they promote. "Pro sports " are advertising vehicles. Keeping that in mind lends perspective to the content. I give more weight to the feedback of members here than I would to anything from coverage of any tournament.

Further North reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 7:48 AM, Montanaro said:

Im just saying if people are going to compare cars to rods at least make an accurate comparison on the percentage difference in cost.

Like a hellcat versus a ss camaro.

Both can haul ass but the one is more refined and exclusive and a bit faster.

Fishing rods have no bugatti equivalent.

...they kinda do, it's just that those rods don't get discussed a lot on bass forums.

It's not hard to spend $1,000 on a fly rod.

You can easily spend $400 for a mid-level rod (and I often do, going with Temple Forks Outfiters). I just took a look...G Loomis has fly rods at $1,400.

...there are other, specialized, custom makers that'll double that.

...then we can edge into bamboo fly rods. The ones Orvis sells pop the cork at $2,795...and they are nowhere near the best thing going...and Orvis is still a mass market retailer (and that's not criticism, not even a little bit).

Start looking at a custom made bamboo rod, made by an acknowledged master tradesman...and you're probably looking at $5K, to start. Start adding in special wood for the reel seat, custom engraving for the metal parts...and you can get to elevations where it gets hard for a working guy like me to breathe in a heck of a hurry....

A quick Google search on "custom bamboo fly rods for sale" popped up a website for Oyster fly rods...and a selling price for a "standard" Legacy Series rod of $12,000...or 100x an "average" casting rod...just so you know I'm not making that up:

https://www.taigan.com/shops/oysterflyrods/items/42995-oyster-legacy-series-bamboo-fly-rod-by-oyster?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIs4Hxhc692AIVg9dkCh0KZQp9EAQYASABEgINzfD_BwE

...the last car I bought...a nothing special, 2014 Ford Escape, had an MSRP of about $42,500 (I can't afford that, I bought it used, a year later for $23,500)...working the numbers, 100x $42,500 is $4,250,000...or about 280% more than a Bugatti Veyron...

Best I could quickly do for "average vehicle cost" was a USA Today piece from 2015 that put that price at $33,560...100x that is still $3,356,000...or about 234% of the $1,500,000 Veyron price tag...

Thanks for your post...It sent me down a quick gopher hole of fishing rod costs, and taught me a thing or three...I honestly had no clue you could spend, $12,000 on a fishing rod...my expectations were more in line with the $5,000 - $6,000 I've seen spent on 'Boo rods...which is more like 50x an "average $120 fishing rod...to see 2x that...educational...I really appreciate it.

On 1/4/2018 at 5:23 AM, fishindad said:

Back in my mid-to-late twenties (1980's and 90's) I was a highly competitive triathlete in California. I quickly learned that the guys that were the most "dangerous" were the ones who showed up in old grey sweats, with well-used bikes and running shoes. The ones who I was never worried about after the gun showed up in the latest Nike lycra and $3000 bikes that looked like they just came off the showroom floor. All show and no go.

I'm all for people spending their money as they please (assuming they legally earned it of course); this is America. My reply was geared towards folks who believe success (at fishing, life, sports, whatever) is determined by the labels on your "stuff".

My bass fishing role models are Charlie Brewer, Billy Westmoreland, Jerry McKinnis, Ned Kehde, and Larry Nixon. Who'da guessed this big city boy from Chicago would grow up to idolize some good 'old country boys. Those guys didn't need NRX rods or side imaging or spot lock to catch bass.

Yep.

There's a truism floating around the world of shotgun shooting: "Beware of the man who shoots one gun."

That "old timer" in bib overalls shooting a 1930s model 12 at every clay that flies...he's really, really likely to kick your butt...

JawjaBoy reply :

Personally, I'd love to be able to use a $400 rod, but on my decidedly blue collar income and with a wife and 3 year old daughter to take care of it ain't gonna happen!

I AM looking to purchase a new reel very shortly and it's looking like it'll be in the $110-130 range. That will be the most I have EVER paid for a reel, but circumstances have worked out so that I have a little disposable income to spend on myself.

I will say though that I'm kind of a strange bird about some things. I'm one of those rare creatures that, when I find something that works, I'm loathe to change it. I'm still using a 1310 that I bought in 1989 because it still works great! I drive a 1995 S10 that I bought brand new and now has over 388,000 miles on it. I built a shed in my backyard almost completely with my Grandad's old hand tools.

The truth is, I can remember when a reel over $100 was RARE. As were rods. Now, a $100 reel is almost "low end". The way technology and prices have taken off simply blows my mind. It's kind of like someone saying 20 years ago that we'd be paying a buck and a half for a bottle of water one day!

fishwizzard reply :

I honestly had no idea bamboo fishing rods were still a thing, what advantages do they offer over a more modern material?

68camaro reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 2:32 PM, Further North said:

Start looking at a custom made bamboo rod, made by an acknowledged master tradesman...and you're probably looking at $5K, to start. Start adding in special wood for the reel seat, custom engraving for the metal parts...and you can get to elevations where it gets hard for a working guy like me to breathe in a heck of a hurry....

A quick Google search on "custom bamboo fly rods for sale" popped up a website for Oyster fly rods...and a selling price for a "standard" Legacy Series rod of $12,000...or 100x an "average" casting rod...just so you know I'm not making that up:

https://www.taigan.com/shops/oysterflyrods/items/42995-oyster-legacy-series-bamboo-fly-rod-by-oyster?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIs4Hxhc692AIVg9dkCh0KZQp9EAQYASABEgINzfD_BwE

Dang, had no idea that bamboo or even St. Croix's could go so high. I am looking to get a New Orvis Helios 3 setup, but I am waiting to take the Orvis 101 Fly casting class so I can get a 20% discount on the setup.

I think it goes to show that no matter the product or service, there is always a market for the high and ultra-high end.

Johnbt reply :

Advances in technology can run the price of anything up. Sometimes the product actually performs better, too.

Williams-Sonoma is having another sale on All-Clad brand Copper Core cookware. The 15-piece set (11 pans & 4 lids) is marked down from $2960 to $2199.95

www.williams-sonoma.com/products/all-clad-copper-core-15-piece-cookware-set/?pkey=call-clad-copper-core&isx=0.0.600

The 33-piece set is marked down from $5439 to $3999.95

It's made by the company that developed the bonded layered metal the government makes coins out of.

"He was awarded more than 50 U.S. patents for bonded metals and secured a contract with the U.S. Mint to make dimes, quarters and half dollars. He was later instrumental in the nation's conversion from solid silver coins to bonded layered metals used in coins today."

Further North reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 8:29 PM, fishwizzard said:

I honestly had no idea bamboo fishing rods were still a thing, what advantages do they offer over a more modern material?

I didn't either...at least to the extent I found.

...as to advantages, I'd have a hard time saying there are any, but could be wrong.

Mostly it's aesthetics, a lot like high end shotguns.

On 1/4/2018 at 8:49 PM, Johnbt said:

Advances in technology can run the price of anything up. Sometimes the product actually performs better, too.

Williams-Sonoma is having another sale on All-Clad brand Copper Core cookware. The 15-piece set (11 pans & 4 lids) is marked down from $2960 to $2199.95

www.williams-sonoma.com/products/all-clad-copper-core-15-piece-cookware-set/?pkey=call-clad-copper-core&isx=0.0.600

The 33-piece set is marked down from $5439 to $3999.95

It's made by the company that developed the bonded layered metal the government makes coins out of.

"He was awarded more than 50 U.S. patents for bonded metals and secured a contract with the U.S. Mint to make dimes, quarters and half dollars. He was later instrumental in the nation's conversion from solid silver coins to bonded layered metals used in coins today."

Wow...and cool.

On 1/4/2018 at 8:29 PM, 68camaro said:

Dang, had no idea that bamboo or even St. Croix's could go so high. I am looking to get a New Orvis Helios 3 setup, but I am waiting to take the Orvis 101 Fly casting class so I can get a 20% discount on the setup.

Same here...though I have a St. Croix Legend C fly rod...

Good choice on the H3!

On 1/4/2018 at 8:29 PM, 68camaro said:

I think it goes to show that no matter the product or service, there is always a market for the high and ultra-high end.

Seems to be that way.

J Francho reply :

Six pages? Fish what you want. The debate is endless; moot.

fishwizzard reply :

Can we talk about $400 coolers instead?

tracker01 reply :

To me it’s not how much it costs. It’s, how does the rod feel in my hand, is the reel seat comfortable, does the rod balance feel good, is the rod light. This all matters to me. When I try rods at retailers, I always bring my reel, a Ci4+. I try not to look at the price tag until I fish the rod around the shop. Poor way to judge a rod but it works for me. I fished nice stuff when I fished tournaments and I still fish nice stuff. It’s my hobby.

RB 77 reply :

On 12/31/2017 at 11:35 AM, Catt said:

I have 3-4 friends who are ridiculously wealthy.

One is an avid angler that owns a Bass Cass Jaguar with a 400 Merc hanging off the back. He would not buy a $200 simply because it's $200, his has dozen Shimano G. Loomis Conquest MBR Casting Rod.

Extreme? Not for his budget, he fishes offshore in a Hatteras GT70 Convertible.

You think our rods are high!

As for me it's about personal preference!

For years I was G. Loomis fan until I tried a Shimano Crucial

I love my Crucials. I have everything from Drop Shot rods to Swimbait rods and feel they are a great rod for the money or at any price for that matter.

Why a $400 rod? Why not? If you got the scratch, go for it. Its all relative to the individuals perceived value of something.

Yumeya reply :

On 1/5/2018 at 2:21 AM, fishwizzard said:

Can we talk about $400 coolers instead?

So who is getting the new Conquest rods

fishwizzard reply :

I guess I like cold beer, but not to the extent that some do

68camaro reply :

On 1/5/2018 at 2:21 AM, fishwizzard said:

Can we talk about $400 coolers instead?

LOL......priceless

BrackishBassin reply :

On 1/5/2018 at 6:13 AM, fishwizzard said:

I guess I like cold beer, but not to the extent that some do

Only one way to guarantee your beer is cold - drink it before it has a chance to warm up.

fishwizzard reply :

Right now my house is so cold that I can just keep the beer near the front door and it stays at a good temp. But it's brandy and coffee time when it's this cold out.

S Hovanec reply :

On 1/4/2018 at 2:32 PM, Further North said:

A quick Google search on "custom bamboo fly rods for sale" popped up a website for Oyster fly rods.

I went down the rabbit hole last year. Spent some time on that site watching engraving videos. I was commissioned to build a Sage One. Guy sends me a pic of an Oyster seat wanting something like that on his Sage. I contacted Bill to see if he sold his hardware. That was a big negative. Ended up going with solid titanium Lemke hardware and turned my own spalted maple insert. Pricy, but way cheaper than an Oyster seat if he would have sold one to me.

Mosster47 reply :

I've been lucky enough to fish or own both ends of the price spectrum from most of the major brands. The thing most people don't account for are how many d**n rods there are in each of these lines from both casting and spinning in a myriad of lengths and actions. If you think all 25 NRX models are awesome for how you fish you're kidding yourself.

If it's not a custom rod you might not like the handle set, material used, length or whatever else. Depending on what you are fishing and how you fish it there are $180 rods that will perform better for you than a $400+ rod.

Expensive doesn't mean better. It just usually means lighter with better components and some nicer looking aesthetics. Generally it will have better craftsmanship, but that's not always the case. If you can find a high end rod that fits how you fish it is awesome, but not all of them are going to.

Yumeya reply :

I use a Dobyns Fury for my crankbait rod and it does its job amazing for what it is..

Redlinerobert reply :

Who cares if your rods cost $40 or $1400. the fish certainly don't

npl_texas reply :

On 1/5/2018 at 6:09 AM, Yumeya said:

So who is getting the new Conquest rods

This picture only works if that's an Ultrex

Yumeya reply :

On 1/6/2018 at 2:47 AM, npl_texas said:

This picture only works if that's an Ultrex

Its now a Maxxum...

Steveo-1969 reply :

I enjoy these threads every time they come up and I must say this has been the most civil one I've seen on here. Normally by page 2 a Mod is shutting it down because of crazy name-calling.

I've been in both camps. In 2010 I saw a $100 Carrot Stix in a tackle shop and told my fiance "There is NO WAY I would pay $100 for a fishing rod! My Ugly Stik works just fine!!". And it did. Then I fished with a higher end rod and discovered how much more pleasurable it was FOR ME to use a higher end rod. Now I own a GLX spinning rod, 2 NRX casting rods, and I'm discussing a custom jig rod with @Delaware Valley Tackle. Life is good....

Further North reply :

On 1/5/2018 at 9:08 AM, S Hovanec said:

I went down the rabbit hole last year. Spent some time on that site watching engraving videos. I was commissioned to build a Sage One. Guy sends me a pic of an Oyster seat wanting something like that on his Sage. I contacted Bill to see if he sold his hardware. That was a big negative. Ended up going with solid titanium Lemke hardware and turned my own spalted maple insert. Pricy, but way cheaper than an Oyster seat if he would have sold one to me.

I'd like to see what that looks like - sounds very nice!

NYWayfarer reply :

On 1/5/2018 at 2:21 AM, fishwizzard said:

Can we talk about $400 coolers instead?

Sure we can talk. My knockoff Ozark Trail hopper cooler works just as well to keep drinks cold for a day on the lake. Just have to make sure it doesn’t tip over...

Oh and it was less than $40

WI_Angler1989 reply :

On 1/6/2018 at 4:59 AM, Steveo-1969 said:

I enjoy these threads every time they come up and I must say this has been the most civil one I've seen on here. Normally by page 2 a Mod is shutting it down because of crazy name-calling.

I've been in both camps. In 2010 I saw a $100 Carrot Stix in a tackle shop and told my fiance "There is NO WAY I would pay $100 for a fishing rod! My Ugly Stik works just fine!!". And it did. Then I fished with a higher end rod and discovered how much more pleasurable it was FOR ME to use a higher end rod. Now I own a GLX spinning rod, 2 NRX casting rods, and I'm discussing a custom jig rod with @Delaware Valley Tackle. Life is good....

Ya gotta love manners and civility! It's not often people can discuss and debate differing opinions respectfully these days.

I had a bit of a thought on the topic too. My own personal situation made me realize how, well, personal and situational this topic is.

Some people want high end gear because they do. Cool!

Some people don't because the fish don't care. Cool!

Some want it because they crave the performance they get out of it, the way it works and feels for THEM. Cool!

Me? I fish a lot of inexpensive tubes, grubs, craws and worms on inexpensive jigs that I rarely lose. I'll buy a few packs of Smallie Crawlin' Jigs and a 25 count of Cabin Creek tubes and catch a few hundred Smallies on them and have leftovers for next year.

That "frugality" and fine tuning that I've made for myself on my waters (through much trial and error and $$$) allows me to save on tackle and spend my hard earned money on better gear. Better reels like my Stradic FK; better rods, like my St Croix Legend Tournament Bass. You get the idea!

Anyway, that's ME and MY situation. I am, by no means whatsoever, well off or in a place to buy these things on a whim. But I spoil myself with a few nice things with excess money because I want to. To each their own, right?

standman reply :

Over the past couple years (since rediscovering fishing), I've managed to acquire several BC rods, all for about $400... combined . Does that count?

S Hovanec reply :

On 1/7/2018 at 12:17 AM, Further North said:

I'd like to see what that looks like - sounds very nice!

Wish I would have taken some better pics. It's kinda plain and basic compared to what I normally do, but, a Sage should have a classic look IMO.

Further North reply :

On 1/7/2018 at 4:42 AM, S Hovanec said:

Wish I would have taken some better pics. It's kinda plain and basic compared to what I normally do, but, a Sage should have a classic look IMO.

If that's "plain and basic", then so is the stock on the bottom gun in this picture:

...That's very nice work! Simplicity often equals elegance far beyond what I might call excessive decoration...

JBradley500 reply :

I know people who carry $1000 folding pocket knives, people who shoot $25,000 OU shotguns, and people who carry $2000 purses. I think a $400 fishing rod or reel (which I do not own) seems like a bargain.

Further North reply :

On 1/7/2018 at 4:54 AM, JBradley500 said:

I know people who carry $1000 folding pocket knives, people who shoot $25,000 OU shotguns, and people who carry $2000 purses. I think a $400 fishing rod or reel (which I do not own) seems like a bargain.

A-Yup.

Heck...some people drink booze that's several hundred dollars a bottle. That's single use product, there.

...but hey..those O/U shotguns? The barrels are sideways. If God had meant us to to shoot O/Us, he'd have put our eyes one above the other.

(I'm kidding. I've long been a fan of several Over/Unders with the classic Browning Superposed in early 1931 configuration leading the pack. I once owned a Superposed with a three digit serial number, 30" barrels, twin single triggers and stepped vent rib that weighed in at a little less than 7 pounds. That gun was fast and rock steady...I kick myself for letting it go at least twice a year...)

HookRz reply :

I'm thinking single rod vs rod four hour tournament death matches. Kinda like title races. Any high dollar rod owners in? My kids need money for school.

Further North reply :

On 1/7/2018 at 5:56 AM, HookRz said:

I'm thinking single rod vs rod four hour tournament death matches. Kinda like title races. Any high dollar rod to owners in? My kids need money for school.

Sure. Each side will hire it's own ringers and luck will play a huge part in the final results!

What's not to like?

Hopefully everyone gets that I'm kidding...I tried to throw as much ridiculous stuff into one place as I could come up with quickly...

...and since the challenged gets to pick the weapons, place and time...no rods less than 9 ft. (gotta go apples to apples, otherwise stats will be meaningless, kinda like NASCAR engine restrictions), reels can only be 1:1 retrieve ratio, my boat, my lake, no practice.

No live bait; barbless hooks only.

Team HDR (High Dollar Rod) can only use rods that have an MSRP of more than $400; Team BBR (Bargain Basement Rod) can only fish rods that have an MSRP of $120 or less.

Total fish inches win. Team HDR be fishin' for teeth...

40" +...

48" = 88" +

37" = 125" +

+54" = 179"

...and for bass...

Next day, at dawn, we'll go hit the rivers and streams, same restrictions on rods and reels, baits and hooks. Wading only, barbless hooks, artificials only...

Hopefully everyone gets that I'm kidding...I tried to throw as much ridiculous stuff into one place as I could come up with quickly...

RPreeb reply :

On 1/7/2018 at 4:54 AM, JBradley500 said:

I know people who carry $1000 folding pocket knives, people who shoot $25,000 OU shotguns, and people who carry $2000 purses. I think a $400 fishing rod or reel (which I do not own) seems like a bargain.

Yep, it's really a matter of perspective. I could certainly afford a $400 rod. I don't really know what I'd do with it that's different from what I do with my Ugly Stik. I'm not a good enough fisherman to really appreciate the difference at the present time. You could set out 5 rods and I doubt that I could pick the most expensive one from the group, but that doesn't mean that there isn't a difference. And it doesn't mean that there isn't value there for the angler who knows what to look for.

When I was working, I drove a 1989 Toyota 2wd pickup that I paid $9000 for new. I drove it for 14 years. My wife drove a Corolla, and later a Chevy Malibu. I retired at 60, she at 55. We could do that because we chose to be somewhat frugal and sock away all we could afford. Now we are quite comfortably retired, living cheaply in the tiny town where she grew up, and are able to do pretty much whatever we want within reason. I have my 2016 F-150 XLT 4X4, she just got a new 2017 Edge SEL AWD. This is exactly the life we wanted to be living at this point in time.

My next rod will probably be in the $120-$150 range - reel about $150. That's all I need to give me the pleasure of being on the water with a decent rig. My needs just aren't that exotic. I don't begrudge anyone the right to spend $400 or more as long as it doesn't take food out of his baby's mouth. That's his choice, and as I see it, it's all about making the choices that best fit your wants and needs.

Further North reply :

On 1/8/2018 at 9:56 AM, RPreeb said:

Yep, it's really a matter of perspective. I could certainly afford a $400 rod. I don't really know what I'd do with it that's different from what I do with my Ugly Stik. I'm not a good enough fisherman to really appreciate the difference at the present time. You could set out 5 rods and I doubt that I could pick the most expensive one from the group, but that doesn't mean that there isn't a difference. And it doesn't mean that there isn't value there for the angler who knows what to look for.

When I was working, I drove a 1989 Toyota 2wd pickup that I paid $9000 for new. I drove it for 14 years. My wife drove a Corolla, and later a Chevy Malibu. I retired at 60, she at 55. We could do that because we chose to be somewhat frugal and sock away all we could afford. Now we are quite comfortably retired, living cheaply in the tiny town where she grew up, and are able to do pretty much whatever we want within reason. I have my 2016 F-150 XLT 4X4, she just got a new 2017 Edge SEL AWD. This is exactly the life we wanted to be living at this point in time.

My next rod will probably be in the $120-$150 range - reel about $150. That's all I need to give me the pleasure of being on the water with a decent rig. My needs just aren't that exotic. I don't begrudge anyone the right to spend $400 or more as long as it doesn't take food out of his baby's mouth. That's his choice, and as I see it, it's all about making the choices that best fit your wants and needs.

Rick, you've got a great perspective and there's a fair number of folks out there that would benefit from sitting back, taking a deep breath and and absorbing the Zen of the whole thing...what works best for each of us...works best for each of us. If we were all the same, life would be so dull we'd all want to choke ourselves out by noon of our first day...

...a the same time, there's a bunch of folks who are convinced there's a best this and best that...or who get hung up in the idea that they are better than someone else who has something that cost less... or had better reviews..or whatever...

...at the same time, there's a buncha folks who have determined that they are somehow better than everyone else because the muddle through with things that cost less, didn't get great reviews...but they "make it work" regardless...

Both those groups of folks operate on the assumption that they can raise them selves up by putting others down, rather than realizing that the best way is to raise everyone up at the same time and celebrating our differences and learning cool stuff rather than our conformance to one way of living and doing stuff...

...anyway, great post, thanks!

LxVE Bassin reply :

My most expensive rod is St Croix LTB that was $260 but I had a warranty claim on a BassX that was $100 so I just paid the difference for the upgrade. So I didnt outright spend $260 but man I love that LTB and want to try the Legend Elite. Like a lot of you said trying higher end stuff makes you never want to look back. But if it’s your money do what you want. My father always told me that a man can do whatever he wants but not matter the consequences good or bad handle it like man. I am open to spending $400 on a rod but it would be custom if I do. I’m not spending that kind of bread on a rod that is not customized to my liking.

*Hootie reply :

I've noticed that this year some of the pros have jumped ship and are pushing different rods and reels. Remember with the pros, the best rods are made by the company that writes the biggest check.

Hootie

2029

Why on earth would anyone spend $400 on a bass rod? 2024

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