Thanks for the wide and varied thread. Seems the range is from self-policing to maintain reputation to letting the editor do it. While I mentioned a single case, many come to mind: Springer guides switching rods based only on number of free rods. (Granted they were switching between Loomis and Lamiglas)

There is a parallel to the financial markets - and reform of late. Brokers and even financial writers used to say "conflict of interest is rare" Now many are required to disclose financial/business ties or if they own or short a specific stock. Why they are now required to is very well known..I am not suggesting regulation for the outdoors industry, just more info. Frankly some writers already do it.