Van StaalVR175 Bailed Spinning Reel

super fast and good product

Spending this kind of money on a reel isn't easy for most people; but if you fish on a regular basis, it's well worth it. As another reviewer mentioned, they do feel tighter than mid-grade reels. The gear ratio is much different than other manufacturers. The retrieve may seem a little bit slower, so if you're fishing for false albacore, you may feel like you have to reel much faster (than you already have to). I'm primarily a striped bass fisherman, and the gear ratio seems optimal. The term "drag" is a thing of the past, because honestly, I don't notice it anymore - it doesn't have a bail clicker. I use my VR175 paired with a Century Noreaster' 10ft. Often I fish upward of 16 hours, 5 days a week. I bought this reel in May, and it has really been able to take a beating. Primarily surfcasting, my reel has spent a lot of time submerged in salt water, with no issues. It does feel a bit on the heavy side, but if paired with the right rod, should not be an issue. You truly get what you pay for, and the function of this reel sells itself. I will never buy another reel that isn't Van Staal.

Beautiful reel, light but a little tight. My Penn Clash rolls more free.