Thanks for the replies I will sand the taper down on the reel. It shouldn't be a problem. The reel is a bit bulky in the feet and it actually can fit with some elbow grease. BUt I did some research and it seems to be a common problem with the non '08 three forks. Great rod though worth the little bit of trouble.
DDRRedneck500 you are right it is an inletted real seat.
Janus