Well sure are alot of thoughts out there. Ummmm, I became a lifetime member 10+ years ago. Paid a one time price $220 and recieved a nice rod and reel in a case. They dont bug me very often. I did recieve as a member a poncho to try and commet on . I kept the poncho as a gift. As for the mag,Im of limited knowledge so the mag is very informative ( of course not as much as IDO). I have had a good experience with them. Im not saying folks are wrong, just sayin its been fine for me…..Thanks Wil