Snagly- This is a fun topic to debate because it's not a big deal; thus we can keep it in lighthearted perspective. So, nothing personal within the following.- Gotta take some exception to some of your points. First, my rod comparison to a GL3 was not so-so or below average, but rather the $150 range Lamiglass IM6/IMX's that are so commonly on sale for $125. And in that given comparison there is barely the tiniest of perceptable sensativity differences that will NOT help you catch more fish (I am an expert that has used both). So I stand by my claim that spending an extra $300 for a GL3 doesn't make sense to me. You mentioned that the more expensive rods won't help experts or begginers, but will help average fishermen catch more fish. That doesn't make much sense to me either and I disagree; again, in comparison to good graphite rods like the aforementioned Lami. (I never did make comparison to a $39 Shakespear Fiberglass rod, which would make some difference in catch rate). I think spending the $300 difference on upgrading the contents of the tackle & bait boxes is far greater bang for the buck (I have a very strong hunch that your 50% better success was due to the change in technique, not a more expensive rod)!- Same thing with the spinning reels. I just don't think you will get much more enjoyment from the $230 Shimano Sustain over an $80 Shimano Symetry (especially if you didn't have the prices in your mind while using them). I know you wouldn't catch anymore fish or get 3 times the longevity with the Sustain! Shimano makes it, and the absurd $599 Stella, for people that just want something a litte fantsier and are willing to pay big bucks for it. As for that $230 reel taking a dunking; I used the ABU "Cardinal 4" steelhead spinning reels throughout much of the 70's and thru many dunkings without a wimper, they just kept on working great for years. They cost $35 (equivelant to about $65 now?). And they never had a major flaw like your overpriced Sustain (bad line twisting)! Your comments about not understanding the very expensive prices of the "nothing inside them" flyreels exemplifies my whole point. The manufacturers prey upon the combo of fishermen's passion and self-image conscientousness to charge and get too much for their most expensive products. Again, if we all bought the quality $125 products, the overpriced items would come down dramatically- with no manufacturing cost cutting neccesary because the markup is already stratospheric.- My opinion. Most of those that have already bought the GL3 & Sustain caliber stuff will tend to talk themsevles into believing the ad hype; or they risk losing the image of what they think they've paid for. - Steve