Why is fishing so Expensive these days?

[MESCANDON]

I think we all go through a stage where we feel "if I buy that next thing, I'll catch bigger or more fish".
When I rediscovered fishing almost 10 years ago, I think I was paying someone's salary at the sporting goods store. Over the years I bought a pontoon boat, and all kinds of cool gear. It's when I got my young daughter into fishing with me, that I learned the painful truth... Gear makes little difference.
I bought her very basic gear, and to save money I taught her to tie flies with me. I would make works of art and she would make ugly monstrosities that would look nothing like an insect or baitfish. However, at the pond, she would catch just as many fish as I would with her ugly flies and cheap rod. (OK, I'll admit I'm not a very good angler!)
I have since sold my pontoon boat, and most of my gear, and fishing is actually more fun. I don't worry too much about loosing or breaking stuff and I don't waste time fiddling with gear (my pontoon boat used to take 1/2 hour to assemble).Much of my fly tying material I get from the dollar store. I'm no longer afraid to loose flies, since they don't take much effort or money to make.
These days I pack so light; almost everything I need fits in a small chest pack.
The thing I would spend money on, is the stuff to keep you comfy. Good boots and waders that won't leak...