I would have never considered using artificial baits, but with the new technology, it is really worth a try. Some claim that it may actually work better then real bait.
In my case the artificial baits work great (Although I just started using them, and havent caught any fish yet.)
Consider when using clams, they are very difficult to keep on the hook. From what I understand if you salt them it helps to firm them up. But with Artificial, like Fish Bites, it is almost like a cloth that it stays on the hook VERY well. It also saves time from going to the bait store every time, just keep it in your takle box.
I just got another rod, what I really want to try is fishing with one rod with artificial bait, and the other rod real bait. I think you can really get a feel for what works and what doesnt when using 2 rods.
My vote is that it is definitly worth it to have an assortment of them.