In honor of this thread, I took a "step up" rig to the water today. Home rolled 7'6" Forecast IM6 rod, gold tone Medalist clone, and an H&H DT line.

Differences - much lighter rod, adjustable drag and more expensive line.

I used exactly the same fly and leader system. Fishing was slower than yesterday.

Shall I conclude better equipment made me a worse fisherman?

Jim