If you’ve got fishing gear gathering dust in the garage, you might be wondering where to sell used fishing equipment and get a fair price. The good news? There’s a healthy market for everything from old fishing rods to antique reels — if you know where to look.
In this guide, we’ll cover who buys used fishing equipment, the best places to sell it (online and locally), and specific tips for selling rods, nets, and even vintage tackle.
Who Buys Used Fishing Equipment?
Before you start selling, it’s important to know your audience. Common buyers include:
- Individual anglers looking for affordable gear.
- Tackle shops that resell secondhand items.
- Pawn shops that take fishing rods, reels, and accessories.
- Collectors interested in antique fishing gear.
- Fishing clubs and community groups that buy in bulk for members.
Best Places to Sell Used Fishing Gear
Here’s a quick list of the best places to sell used fishing equipment for different needs:
- eBay – Great for rare or high-value gear with a worldwide audience.
- Facebook Marketplace – Quick, free, and perfect for local buyers.
- Craigslist – Ideal for large items or bulk sales.
- Pawn Shops – Fast cash for decent-condition gear.
- Play It Again Sports – Buys and sells used sporting equipment (in many US cities).
- Fishing Forums & Groups – Specialty communities for gear enthusiasts.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re selling online, take clear photos and write detailed descriptions including brand, model, and condition.
🌐 Top Online Selling Platforms
1. eBay
- Best for: Rare reels, vintage rods, saltwater combos
- Pro Advantage: Global buyer reach
- Selling Tip:
- Use “TESTED” in titles (e.g., *”Penn Senator 113H Saltwater Reel – TESTED”*)
- Offer bundled deals (rod + reel + tackle box)
2. Facebook Marketplace
- Best for: Local sales of kayaks, rods, electronics
- Pro Advantage: Zero selling fees
- Selling Tip:
- Join regional fishing groups (Bass Gear Trader, Fly Fishing Swap)
- Post sunset photos with gear near water
3. Craigslist
- Best for: Bulky items (tackle boxes, fish finders)
- Pro Advantage: Cash payments
- Safety Note: Meet at bait shops or police stations
🎣 Niche Platforms for Specialized Gear
| Platform | Specialty | Key Perk |
|---|---|---|
| TackleTour | Premium lures/rods | Expert buyer community |
| Fly Fishing Swap | Vintage fly gear | No listing fees |
| Amazon Marketplace | Branded combos (Shimano, Daiwa) | FBA shipping options |
📍 Offline Selling Hotspots
- Consignment Stores
- Pay 50-70% value for high-end rods
- Ideal for rare reels (e.g., Seamasters, Qualia)
- Fishing Clubs
- Trade gear at Bassmaster or Trout Unlimited events
- Network with collectors seeking vintage tackle
- Garage Sales
- Bundle items (e.g., rod + tackle box + lures)
- Display near outdoor/camping gear
🔧 Seller’s Preparation Guide
- Gear Revitalization
- Deep-clean rods with mild soap
- Oil reel mechanisms
- Replace cracked rod guides
- Pricing Strategy
- Check sold listings on eBay for vintage items
- Discount bundles 15% (e.g., $200 rod/reel combo → $170)
- Listing Essentials
- Title keywords: “Saltwater,” “Vintage,” “TESTED”
- Photos: Show gear on water with ruler for scale
- Details: Include:
- Brand + model
- Line weight capacity
- Cosmetic flaws
Where to Sell Used Fishing Rods
Selling used fishing rods requires a bit of care. Buyers want to know:
- Length, weight rating, and action
- Brand and model
- Any wear or repairs
Popular places to sell fishing rods include:
- eBay (auction for rare or premium models)
- Facebook Marketplace (fast, local pickups)
- Local tackle shops (some offer trade-ins)
How to Sell a Fishing Net
Fishing nets often appeal to both commercial and hobby fishermen. To sell yours:
- Clean it thoroughly before listing.
- Measure the net and describe the mesh size.
- List it in local classifieds or Facebook groups for fishing, crabbing, or aquaculture.
How to Sell Antique Fishing Gear
Antique fishing rods, reels, and lures can fetch high prices from collectors.
Best places to sell vintage fishing gear:
- eBay’s Vintage Fishing category
- Specialty auctions (like Lang’s Auction)
- Antique stores in coastal or fishing towns
- Collector forums such as Old Reel Collectors Association (ORCA)
Make sure to include close-up photos of maker marks and any original packaging.
Stores That Buy Used Fishing Equipment
If you prefer to sell in person, many stores will buy your used fishing gear:
- Play It Again Sports (US) – Buys rods, reels, and tackle in good condition.
- Cash Converters (UK/AU) – Buys sporting goods for resale.
- Local pawn shops and tackle shops often purchase secondhand gear.
Search Google for “fishing tackle buyers near me” or “sporting goods consignment store near me” to find nearby options.
Selling Used Fishing Gear Near Me
If you want to sell locally, here’s how:
- Facebook Marketplace & Groups – Join local fishing communities.
- Craigslist – Great for bulk sales without shipping.
- Local fishing clubs – Many buy and resell gear for members.
Example: In Charlotte, NC, anglers often sell gear via Facebook Marketplace or at swap meets hosted by local fishing clubs.
Tips for Getting the Best Price
- Clean and repair your gear before selling.
- Take clear, well-lit photos from multiple angles.
- Be honest about condition — trust builds sales.
- Bundle smaller items to make attractive packages.
- Check sold listings on eBay to set competitive prices.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re selling online or in person, the key to success is knowing who buys used fishing equipment and choosing the right platform for your gear. From where to sell used fishing rods to finding stores that buy used fishing equipment, this guide should help you get the best value for your items — and maybe free up space for new fishing adventures.
