I own several semi automatic fly reels. they are not to be confused with the old, heavy, automatic fly reels. there is no heavy spring needed to retrieve the line. The reel pictured is the Thinkfish Bold. It has an adjustable drag, removable spools and lots of room for backing. fly line is retrieved by pulling the lever (at 5/1 ratio); so you need not fear a big fish changing directions. semi automatic fly reels are popular in Europe. I like the semi automatics when fishing for power fish like carp. you may be able to hand strip smaller fish but you don't want to do this with a double digit carp !