I don't have a problem with people buying expensive rods, if you have the money and want the best, why not. What I cannot see is how much better than a cheap rod they are to warrant the extra money. I have only ever used cheap rods, second hand, hand me downs, a few bought from new etc. etc., cane, glass, carbon, it doesn't really matter to me as long out of that lot I find I few rods that work for me. In no particular order, I like the look of it, the general feel when I hold it, the casting ability, the playing ability. I have about 30 rods at present but I use only 3 or 4 of them and that includes sea fishing. The others are just random cheap or value buys, lucky free finds and do up projects etc. The thing is, I could afford to go and buy a couple of expensive rods, my finances are in good shape but I cannot see what I am getting for my money, or at least that sort of money that I haven't got now, all my needs and requirements are catered for and I mean casting, looks, playing abilities etc. over the whole gamut of how and what I fish for. One day maybe, I could just be a tight old git but, I will be very disappointed if I found I went and spent say £500 and got very little extra to what I already have for £20 say, or will I?
Regarding feeder rods, I never do it these days but on having a rummage the other day I found I have something called a carbon composite Chevron Winkle Picker 10ft, I guess it is a feeder rod and I don't remember how I got it but I am sure it wouldn't have been more than £20 if it isn't just something I found. Should I use it if ever I go feeder fishing, will it be good enough or should I buy one of those eBay jobs for £500? Would I be missing out on something special?