"Tom Littleton" wrote in message
news:SJvni.5939$Wh4.659@trndny06...
I don't know where these guys are getting Medalist
1495's with "no drag". The thing, stock, has a more than
adequate drag for fish up to 8 or 10 pounds in running
water. Still, for the larger quarry and heavy use you
will see in Alaska, I would suggest beefing up the drag,
or as others have suggested, looking into a better reel.
And yes, that handle can nail you pretty painfully, in the
heat of the moment.

Tom


I had'nt planned on chiming in with the whole 1495 discussion, as others who
posted have far more experience than me, but ... your my 1st fly reel was is
a used 1495 that is probably older than I am, I still use it every time I am
on the river. For the smaller/average size trout and occsasional bass it is
more than sufficient, in short, I love it. However, it is universally agreed
upon here that it wouldn't be a smart choice for the bigger steelhead and
salmon more commonly found in AK. Check with your local shops and see what
used reels they might have that are in good condition. I picked up a lightly
used and (very) well cared for Orvis Battenkill 8/9 a last year for $40.
They have since discontinued the 8/9 so it has been difficult finding spare
spools, but it might be worth checking to see what you could find used.

HTH
Jeremy Moe