Pawn shops are great places to find deals on a wide variety of items. From high-quality jewelry to power tools and everything in between, pawn shops are a great resource for buying and selling. They can also be an excellent resource when you are looking to sell your high-end fishing gear.
Fishing gear, such as reels, poles, and lures, are bought and sold just like any other item in the pawn industry. However, the price you can expect to get will vary depending on a few key factors. If you’ve got high-end fishing gear that is only taking up space and gathering dust, or if you could use some quick cash, keep reading to learn more about the factors affecting how much you can expect, and how to sell your fishing gear.
Quality and Condition
A huge factor in selling your high-end fishing gear is quality. Like lots of other items that come through your pawnbroker’s doors, the price they will offer depends a lot on its initial value. Your local pawn shop will consider the manufacturer, materials, and condition when appraising your gear. A pole that can be found for cheap at your local big-box store will probably not be desirable for most pawn shops.
However, custom pieces like poles or reels made by a highly sought after builder, or exclusive boutique items will command more money because the pawn shop will be able to charge a premium for it and can expect it to sell.
Of course, any gear you offer your pawn shop must be in working condition and should be as close to perfect and pristine as possible. Make it easy for your pawnbroker to sell your gear and you should walk away with a reasonable price.
Demand and Location
Pawn shops in land-locked areas where there are few opportunities for fishing will probably not be too interested in fishing gear, no matter how unique or functional. This is because the demand for fishing gear in that region is just not very high, and the shop will have trouble selling the items.
However, if you live in the Inland Empire or San Gabriel Valley, you’re not out of luck. There are many fishing opportunities in the nearby oceans, rivers, and lakes, all of which are an easy drive for the area’s many fishing enthusiasts. So, while demand for high-end fishing gear may not be as high as in places like coastal cities, there is a good chance that your equipment may still net you a reasonable price at your local shop.
Also, keep in mind that the time of year may affect your pawn shop’s ability to buy your gear. If it is the off-season, your pawn shop may not be able to buy your gear right away.
Accessories or Modifications
Fishing gear, especially the high-end stuff, can often feature sought-after accessories or modifications. If your gear happens to be in this category, be sure to keep on hand any authentication when selling.
Any documentation you can provide your pawnbroker that proves your gear is genuine and custom will help them give you a good price because it improves value. You may need to do some digging to provide your documentation, but it will be worth it when your pawnbroker offers you more than you expected.
Why You Should Sell to Your Local Pawn Shop
First, let’s admit that you have many options when it comes to selling your gear. Between auction sites, message boards and apps, there are several avenues for turning your used fishing gear into cash. So why choose your local pawn shop? Here are some compelling reasons:
- No one becomes an expert fisherman overnight. Many beginners are ready to upgrade their gear and want to do so slowly and with minimal investment. The savvy ones will consider their local pawn shop to try gear out and take the next step in their learning.
- Fishermen are always looking to try out new gear and find a bargain.
- You’ll avoid paying fees for shipping, listing, and insurance. Selling to a pawn shop gets you cash in hand in minutes.
How to Sell
Before you begin offering your gear to your local pawn shops, consider the following points.
- Do your research: explore message boards and online auctions to see what people are buying and what people are interested in. If you have popular gear, take note of how much people are paying.
- Clean your gear: particularly the gear that beginners might be interested in, such as:
- Rods or poles
- Reels
- Lines
- Hooks
- Baits or lures
Your local pawn shop may be interested in keeping items like these on hand for beginning fishermen who find their way into their shops, and you can make your gear more appealing by presenting it as clean as possible.
- Learn how pawn shops work: keep in mind that at the end of the day, your local pawn shop must be able to turn a profit. They must be able to sell your gear to casual fishermen and experts alike and may not want to have a glut of inventory on hand. Don’t take it personally if they decline to purchase your gear.
- Negotiate: learn to haggle and don’t be afraid to walk away if the offer simply doesn’t work for you. Before you walk into the shop, you should be aware of two numbers: how much your item is worth, and how much you want to sell it for. Work with your pawnbroker to find a happy medium between these two numbers to keep everyone happy.
For all these tips, keep in mind that not all pawn shops will be interested in or knowledgeable about fishing and fishing gear. It may take you some visits to find a place that is truly speaking your language. We, however, are eager to make you an offer on your high-end fishing gear. Visit us today and let us make you an offer!
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