I think about the debates on numerous topics here and this particular topic Is always of Interest to me. I fish with what I can afford and I neither care nor seek out what others are using. I will say though when you see a new boat or you fish with folks that have high end gear It's hard not to notice. In the end though I'm 54 years old and honestly couldn't care less about what others think and or say about my equipment, where I've caught my fish, what I wear on the water, or my , at times, brand loyalty to certain bait companies.
Lastly, to all you young folks out there I will leave you with this advice; while It's nice to have the very best equipment out there I truly hope you think about this: As you start a family, especially children, their needs far surpass anything you could possibly need with regards to fishing. Do the right thing and as the years go by you will be amazed at what you collect and as you near retirement you will see that the wants (fishing related) aren't as Important as you thought.
Slone, with regards to your personal best, was It caught on the little pink Barbie rod you posted a pic. of In the everything else forum?