Rod And Reel Rental?

[Choporoz]

I'm blown away by the number of folks on here with fairly high-end equipment.  I've always been a budget guy (read CHEAPO) and only recently bought a combo for $130 which was easily the most I've ever spent on a rod and reel.  I admit that I like it a lot, but I cannot comprehend how a $500 rig would be impress me enough to start saving.  I do also admit that I've recently come to appreciate some 'better' things, and can at times justify splurging.  But for fishing gear, I'm clueless as to the value.  I wouldn't buy golf clubs without trying out a number of different lines -- or a car without a test drive.  I can rent camera lenses, boats, convertibles...I can buy singles of cigars before buying a box, etc...you get the picture.

 

Where can I rent higher end rods and reels for a weekend? 

[Fishes in trees]

Doesn't Tackle Warehouse have some sort of try out program?  I'm not certain, but I seem to remember that from somewhere.

 Be careful.  You might find out that, for the most part, more expensive tackle is better, and then you will become pals with the bait monkey.

 

People wonder why we can't just use one rod.  Do carpenters use the same tool for every carpentering issue?  Do artists use the same brush every day?  Sculptors have different chisels for different cuts, right?  It is the same deal with fishing gear.

 

I'm a big fan of using the best gear you can comfortably afford.   I've had some cheaper reels that had issues shortly after ownership.  I have some Calcutta's that are going into their second decade of service.  That's my experience.

 

These days, even mid=range gear is really good, compared to olden times when I started fishing.  Buy what you can afford, take care of it and it should last until you tear it up.  Sooner or later, we are all capable of tearing up gear.

[WIGuide]

Check Tackle Warehouse. They have a reel demo program that you only have to pay for the shipping. Depending on where you live, between $10-20. I don't know if they do it with the rods, but you can always ask. 

[greenesgreen]

*** has a good demo program, but I believe they charge your card for the full amount until the reel is returned.  Try Outdoorsmanrentals.com, they have a good selection of reels for rent at weekly rates.  The fee includes shipping to the you, but you have to pay for the return shipping.