OK, thanks for the replies guys.

I see a couple of you said the 1495 has 'no' drag. Dave said 'no' drag
then 'reliable' drag. I assume you guys are saying that the 1495
adjustable drag is insuffiecient. It does have adjustable drag, just
not rim control. In the past I've used my palm against the spool
handle to get some extra drag but that would probably get
painful/irritating with bigger fish.

I'm thinking about buying a new Medalist, the 1595 1/2 RC. I read an
article here about it:

http://www.flyfishsteelhead.com/stories/reels.htm

Dennis Dickson(steelhead guide) said "The Kudos for best buys go to:
1)Tioga 8 LA for (5-7 wt. rods Tioga 10 LA for 8-9 wt. rods).......for
under $200
2) Pfluger Medalist 1595 1/2 RC under $50. (I have one that is
responsible for over 200 alaska steelhead!"

Do you guys with experience agree? It has adjustable drag, counter
balanced spool and rim control. If you dont think this is a good
enough reel do you have any suggestions for a reel thats not too
expensive.

Fortunately, one of the areas my dad mentioned was the Kenai river, he
said it was a 'must stop,' so we'll be spending some time there...

Thanks again,
Matt Mika