I would have to completly disargee with you! All of the rods I now own are high end rods, over the past few years I have been upgrading. There may not be a notable difference to some people w/ a 30.00 rod and 100.00 rod but once you get into the best rods G-Loomis, kistler and Japanese stuff you wont be able to go to Wal-Mart and pick up a rod that does not feel crappy. I think most people who have alot of experence with rods of all calibur will argee with me, once you start fishing the best rods fishing with a cheapie has a difference bigger than night and day.