I don't want to debate this topic too much but I can catch more fish with a high quality rod or at the very least do it more effectivly. Many fly anglers have not had the opportunity to refine the skills to the point where the qualities of a high end rod become appareant.

Tiger woods for example can play a great game of golf with any old clubs but I bet he does better with less effort with his own clubs which I would imagine are extremely expensive. My point is that there are anglers who can do more with better equipment.