On 2010-10-28 01:35:02 -0400, " said:

because I dropped it (and had to repair it with
a visegrip), and I lost the lock nut years ago. Sent it back recently.
$20 later it's like new. I feel like I'm ahead with Bernie and his
sons.

There are lots of good reels, and the really good ones are expensive.
Just make sure that you have an excellent drag and plenty of backing.
And you should have a backup rig.

I too have been happy with my Abels. The one I use most (with my LT5)
I bought in 1995 or thereabouts. I thought it was expensive at the
time, but it has excellent trouble-free service all these years.

My only backup rig would be a Sage XP 7 weight with a Lamson reel. It
souds a little light but has served me well with big salmon and browns.
I'll have to check and make sure it holds enough backing.

Dave