[Frank Whiton]

Hi Starski,

You should add the Galvan Open Back reel to your list. It is mid-priced and a beatifully built reel. The 03-OB should meet your needs quite well. Fully machined with a truly great drag. Joni is correct about the Mach reel.

[wyefly]

hi, you could try the partridge 'S' series fly reel, it has the same workings as the trion but a full large arbor.

[BigCliff]

Based on my experience, and your preferences, I would recommend this:

Good- Cortland Endurance
Better- Battenkill Mid Arbor (I'll never be convinced that super shallow arbor on the LA is a good idea)
Best- Lamson Litespeed or Ross Evolution.

[hardhat]

My son has several Okuma slv reels and loves them. I recently bought a reel off ebay which turned out to be a bargain. It is all machined aircraft aluminum with an excellent drag. I showed one to the mgr of the bass pro fly dept., and he bought one for himself that day. They sell for about $40. Look for bobo00700. He usually has several up for auction or sale.

[philthy]

Fly Reels

Here's a link to last year's version of the Lamson Velocity size 2. 149.99 is 70 bucks off retail. I've had one for awhile and it's been fantastic and got another a couple weeks back from these folks. Got the reel within about 4 days. It's not the new "hard alox" finish, but mine hasn't gotten a scratch yet.

Phil

[wyefly]

hi, check out the scientific anglers system 2LA-456 in the gear review section. these are great quality reels from BFR with a very smooth action.