I’ve reviewed a lot of fly fishing gear on Casting Across. But I’ve read exponentially more than I’ve composed myself.
In the past 20 years, I’ve bought gear based upon positive reviews. I’ve also decided against equipment because of negative reviews. My life (and shopping) is one piece of evidence that demonstrates the power of a published opinion. The thing is just like gear, reviews themselves can be good or bad. For example:
- A positive yet badly written review will paint a product in a negative light.
- A somewhat negative, but nuanced and explanatory review will get someone thinking.
Since a Google search will yield dozens of pieces on any given piece of gear, it pays to be able to think critically about what you’re reading. Here are three things I consider when I read and write about fly fishing gear. Also, I want to share a little bit about how I go about reviews on Casting Across.
Put yourself in their wading boots. I might think that I have found the best sling pack on the market. But you might be a different shape than me. Consequently, my fit and your fit are different. That aspect of my review isn’t too valuable. On the other hand, if you fish where or how I fish those key details will translate. Read between the lines:
- What really makes the reviewer happy?
- Are his priorities in line with yours?
- Does she think about fly fishing the way you do?
- Has he reviewed something you have used? If so, do you agree or disagree with his assessment?
Reel in objective and comparative. Good reviews don’t read like catalog copy. Good reviews do have a personal component to them. While that has a lot of value when you’re trying to figure out the more intricate or nuanced details (see above), numbers and comparisons are going to give you hard facts.
- Lodge A offers X, Y, and Z.
- Lodge B only offers X and Y, but comes in at $100 less a night.
Even if it isn’t data like that, reading “this fly rod model feels faster than that model” can be helpful. When placed within a frame of reference, subjective opinions can be beneficial.
Does the angler have an angle? A sponsored review is still a review. Just because there is some sort of transaction involved doesn’t mean that the information is invalid. You, the reader, can be the judge. Inversely, a reviewer can have a negative bias towards a company or type of gear. Again, a slanted piece of journalism might not be good – but there could be salvageable bits. What that takes is a discerning eye from the audience. After all, everyone (even those who attempt to be impartial) have an angle.
How do I do things at Casting Across? First and foremost you’re getting my honest opinion. This is a big part of my life, but it isn’t my job. Fishing and being around fishing stuff is something I do for fun. Nevertheless, I want to compose myself with integrity.
Generally speaking, I am positive in the sense that I explain how I would use the product to get the most out of it. Most things that make it to market have value to someone, somewhere. Those details, plus some personal commentary, is what I want to communicate.
That being said, gear I review on the site or podcast comes to me in a variety of ways: I buy it at retail; I buy it at a discount; It gets sent for me to try, and then I send it back; It gets sent for me to keep. I don’t explicitly say which is which in reviews, as I feel like there is little to gain from that. I hope my credibility and authenticity precedes any singular review. If and when I enter into a relationship with a company where there is financial compensation, I’ll be sure to share that.
When shortcomings are glaring I point them out. I make it clear when it is a personal preference and when it is a design flaw. But I’ve turned down a lot of gear. if something (or the company) looks suspect online or in person I’ll usually decline taking it for a spin. Again, I don’t see a lot to gain in piling on a sub-par product or company. I do try to give direct, constructive criticism in those situations.
If you ever have any questions about a review – what I said or what I didn’t say – please don’t hesitate to reach out. Get in touch with me here.