Hi Linesidesonthefly,

I can't tell you much about the rod, but is the reel a Scientific Anglers System 3 reel model 10/11 or is it a system 2. If it is a system 2 I have 2 8/9's and I have 2 10/11 and all of them with extra spools. I love these reels and have yet to have one fail on me. They have a great drag system that would stop a freight train and have never had them back lash like some other reels I have owned. Also another thing is if you can buy the old style (unvented) instead of the new style (vented) you will like it a bit better if you are not concerned about a little more weight. Also the old style and new style spools will fit each other.

Alan (salmonguy)