Selling Internationally ... An Entirely Different Discusssion ...

[reelsmith.]

In the past year or so I have received several messages from US buyers asking me to stop selling internationally because old American made tackle should stay in the States.

On the one hand I recognize that we have been pulling tackle out of other countries for years ...yet I like the idea of what was born here and sold here staying here.

I'm not firmly in either camp and think both sides of this issue can present valid arguments.

What are your thoughts?

Dean.

[Midway Tommy D]

IMHO, as much as I've not been a big fan, the days of world seclusion have long passed. We're now in a world economic system that will only become more widespread in the future. In a capitalist society that promotes a free market enterprise culture it's guaranteed that the American made tackle will stay in the US as long as an American sees the relevance to keep it here. If someone elsewhere sees that same item more important to them so be it, that's capitalism at its best. No one is keeping any US citizen from being the high bidder except that bidder himself.

[Richard Lodge]

I agree with Tom. New American rods, reels, lures and related tackle - when these things were all made here - were sold around the world. In today's globalized marketplace, why would we close the doors to collectors from elsewhere? I, for one, have added to my various collections from collectors in several other countries. Some items were made elsewhere (England and Japan, most notably), but I have also purchased items originally made in the US from people around the world.
I think if someone believes in keeping American collectibles here at home, that's his or her choice. But I like being able to make my own choices for my own reasons, and I suspect there are many like-minded folks out there.
Treat people with respect. Try not to make bone-headed decisions, and if you lose out on something, move on. This is a hobby. Enjoy it, don't lose sleep over it.
Richard

[wrong99]

Dean, are these people that are urging you to keep your items in this country willing to pay what it takes to keep them here? Just curious.
Mark

[Reel Geezer]

...if you lose out on something, move on. This is a hobby. Enjoy it, don't lose sleep over it.

Words of wisdom from Richard.

[reelsmith.]

Dean, are these people that are urging you to keep your items in this country willing to pay what it takes to keep them here? Just curious.
Mark

Two have won some of my auctions. I don't keep track of whether they may have lost any, or who else may have.

Dean.