Is a scomb even worth it?

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Adamson

Adamson

Plecostomus
MFK Member
Apr 29, 2012
576
42
61
Switzerland
So I've been planning on getting an armatus this coming season, and this is still my plan.
Today I saw a scomb in an LFS for $100. I just found it interesting because I never see them here. I know where they came from, this guy was trying to sell his large GATF (which is a nice specimen) and his scomb on a local forum, I talked to him a little about it and originally he was trying to sell it as an armatus and was asking a ton. Even when we determined it was a scomb he wanted over $150.
Now this scomb is probably 6-7", it looks decent but at that size honestly I don't think it will live much longer.

I am wondering what you guys would do, I could go in there tomorrow and offer them something like $75 and explain to them that I know my stuff. I'm sure some folks will say "well if you aren't feeling the fish, of course don't get it". I'm just wondering if you would pick up a scomb for $75 if you had the opportunity.
 
No way! With 150 bucks you can buy a baby armatus. Scombs for 100+ is outrageous. i even wouldn't buy a scomb for 30 bucks.....
Why waste money on a fish that will ost like die in a year or two? your choice anyways.
 
No its not worth it. A 6-7" scomb is only worth $60. (at least in my area, probably lix too)
 
I wouldn't go more than $65 for a scomb. I think they're good fish, but opinions on these guys are strong and deeply divided. I can understand both sides of the argument, but I feel that if I spend ~$50 for a 6" fish that'll last me two more years or so, it's not a bad deal and I certainly dont' begrudge the fish that. Now if these things were only available for armatus-like pricing and tended to die within two years, then I'd say they're a rip. However, if you can get one that's a bit smaller, say 4" or so for a good price, you'll have a nice fish at a good price that should last you several years. :)
 
Keep your money and wait for a tat or armatus to come along....


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I grabbed mine for $60 from a former MFK'er. He's about 6" and quickly becoming one of my favorite fish. I know they're rumored to croak at the 12" mark, but I still plan to enjoy my little guy for as long as he's with me.

I admit, I haven't even tried to break him off live and onto meaty foods. It's just too much fun watching him hunt.

Money is certainly a factor, but it's not everything (especially in this hobby). I paid more than most would have for my ATF ($200), but I didn't really mind because I got to see the actual fish I was purchasing, and support a local business. Plus, I almost NEVER see "our" type of fish in any of the stores where I live.

Bottom line, if the fish interests you, and you can get it for a price that's worth it to you, then go for it. If you grab him get prepared to fall in love. These things are just made of teeth. Mine had some damage on it's nose when I first picked it up. As soon as the noes healed, I swear it grew another 3 teeth in the front of its mouth.
 
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