When I was a kid, I had one inexpensive rod and reel.  I fished lures that were way out of the weight range, but still managed to cast them out and catch fish.  I always spent my money on lures first.  I'm not saying I recommend this practice, just the way it has been for me.  I like well matched rods, and reels.  I am addicted to lures.

To me… yes the way better rods you can feel everything… it’s amazing but in all fairness I can pick up a cheapie rod and reel and catch fish on it. If I was a low budget my tackle would be my priority but since I’m not both are my priorities lol ? my wife hates it. Both are very important. 

Overall, rods and reels for sure.

 

But it varies in intensity. A couple of years ago I bought some nicer rods, paired them up with nicer reels, and then started going down the tackle rabbit hole because they opened up a few possibilites to throw stuff I hadn't considered. Started branching out, trying something other than just DT-6s and Rattlin' Rapalas, bought my first Japanese lures (LC 1.5 and LV-500, Jackall TN60), started fishing jigs properly and matching jigs to trailers (I know, I know...), dedicated more time to the right line, hooks, and soft plastics for drop shots, Ned rig stuff, and so on.

 

This year, because I figured out what I really enjoyed out of all that, it got me back to rods and reels for that stuff. Already got myself a new drop shot rod, a new reel for my jig rod, and it's still February.

I like using good tools at either work or play. A good well balanced rod and reel that casts smoothly and accurately greatly increases my fishing enjoyment. 

FM