Internet stores are very similar to mail-order catalogs, with many of the same benefits and drawbacks. These types of businesses have really increased in number in recent years and there are a lot of them out there to choose from. Many are so new that they don't have a proven track record and it can be a problem getting what you order. But a lot of small manufacturers can be found on the Internet that supply their products directly to you.

What You Will Find at Internet Stores

Search the Internet for fishing tackle and you will get hundreds of sites, all claiming to offer merchandise at low prices. Many of the sites allow you to browse their products and give good descriptions as well as pictures of the items. Some specialize in one kind of product while others offer everything you could possibly need. You'll also find some sites set up by small manufacturers showing the tackle they make, and this is often the only way to find them.

The Pros of Internet Stores

It's easy to search the Net and find a lot of tackle for sale. The items listed can be changed quickly to respond to shortages and increased demand, something catalogs can't do. New tackle on the market can often be found at Internet sites before your local stores get it in stock. Very small suppliers can show you their merchandise with little expense and not have to pass on the cost of advertising to you.

Custom rod makers are a good example of the type companies that do well selling through the Internet. Although they may make only a few dozen rods a year, they can show their products and get information to you at a low cost to them. The Internet is about the only way to find out about such small companies.

Many of the bigger mail-order houses also have Internet sites. You can go to them and quickly find out what's in stock and order it faster than by mail. Dealing with the big companies that have been around a long time and have established themselves in other ways helps ensure good service.

The Cons of Internet Stores

Since Internet sites are so easy to set up, many are so small they don't have the ability to offer a wide variety of merchandise. And they may not stock anything, so it may take you a long time to get anything you order. If there's a problem it can be more difficult to solve since so many of these companies disappear overnight. Few of them have been around long enough to establish a good reputation.

You can't try items out; you must make your purchase by looking at a picture. This is not a problem if you know exactly what you want but it limits your ability to choose among several similar products. Returns can be difficult, too, and you'll have to have a credit card to make purchases.