No question about it, the better rods and reels help. The feel from a gloomis or other top quality rod makes a difference. The more expensive reels are smoother than the others, therfore casting and playing fish more effectively. (when I say more expensive reel I mean $100 and up for baitcasters)

The caveat to this is the real difference that separates a 'fisherman' from a 'catcherman' is knowledge. knowledge of the river, the fish, and your gear (what you can and cannot fish with a certain set-up).

Yes sir, gear makes a difference, but as in all walks of life, knowledge is king.