The first thing I noticed about this reel is its weight ru-vid.comUgkxM68VkfsQhHaabDce1IwOCXuvumcpbZ_k . I wouldn't say it was uncomfortable but it was a little heavier than other similarly sized reels. However, that didn't deter my enjoyment of how smooth this reel is. I spooled it with 20lb. Tuf-Line XP and it's perfect for what I use it for. I have it paired with an 8'6" Medium/Fast Okuma SST Salmon/Steelhead rod. The combination is perfect for casting and even drifting. I used the reel all day and didn't experience any arm or hand fatigue except when fighting a few fish! The bail is solid and feels strong when engaging by reeling and manually closing the bail by hand. The large rubber handle grip is very comfortable. It's got a powerful drag, silky smooth reeling, and feels very comfortable in the hands. I recommend it!
I'm sure it's a great reel but I don't believe it is that much cheaper than a Van Staal… and for the price of a Van Staal, .. I can buy 3 premium multiplier reels that cast way further than any spinner can… you don't need any skill in casting a spinning reel, ... If you can't cast a multiplier, ... Then you just can't cast one... I will always pick a multiplier over a spinner every time.. even for trout in a small stream…..
