Thanks, sounds like I just saved myself some money. I had a Cortland graphite reel years ago and it wasn't very good. I wondered if the technology had improved any but it doesn't sound like it. The reels I use for trout fishing are Tiogas but for something I won't use that often it's hard to justify the expense. I think I'll buy a Cabela's Prestige Plus, only $39.99 and at least it's metal.